The Cornwall Retreat

Conceived as a natural extension of the rugged coastline, The Cornwall Retreat is understated and tactile, with a strong connection to its surroundings.

Photography by Peter Molloy | Film by Chromaphotography

From the street, the timber-clad home sits modestly within the rhythm of neighbouring gables. Stepping inside, the entrance hall opens directly to a dramatic view of the sea, setting the tone for the spaces beyond. The architecture is composed of simple pitched volumes, clad in timber with a slate roof and lime-rendered base. The master suite is integrated into the roof volume, maintaining the scale of the surrounding cottages. Landscaping with wildflowers, grasses and Cornish stone steps helps the building settle into its clifftop garden.

Inside, materials are drawn from the coastal setting: timber-lined ceilings, breathable clay and lime wall finishes, and wide oak flooring. The interiors layer tones of sand, stone and driftwood, creating a calm and grounded atmosphere. A sculptural limestone fireplace anchors the main living space, complemented by soft furnishings, oak shelving and an open-shelving partition that maintains views between the kitchen and living room. The kitchen features a vaulted timber ceiling with rooflights that flood the space with daylight, alongside bespoke oak cabinetry and a stone island at its centre.

Reflecting the family’s lifestyle, a dedicated surf room provides practical storage for wetsuits and boards, with terrazzo-lined floors and walls and an outdoor shower overlooking the bay. Other spaces include a cocoon-like snug for family lounging, a bunk room for guests, and bathrooms finished in stone and handmade tiles.

Durability and sustainability are central throughout. Natural paints, resilient stone and terrazzo, and robust oak surfaces ensure longevity, while the orientation of the house maximises natural light and passive solar gain.

Balancing architectural discretion with crafted detail, the house belongs to its place. From its modest street presence to its panoramic coastal views, the design reflects both contemporary family life and the spirit of Cornwall’s landscape.

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