Built to replace a pre-existing 1950s asbestos chalet in Llanbedrog that had no lawful use as a dwelling
As well as the challenge of obtaining planning permission, the site was very tight and difficult to develop due its steepness and isolated rural location within the Llŷn AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
Planning was granted on condition that any replacement dwelling on the site would need to be of a lightweight construction and be limited in size. So we came up with a ‘cabin architecture’ solution based on using SIPS (Structural Insulated Panels) construction which also provided a highly energy efficient and air-tight shell, fabricated off-site and then brought to site and erected within a week.
The outcome
This contemporary design consists of two overlapping parallel volumes clad in Siberian larch with a clerestory form, monopitch zinc roof which helps to marry in the distinctive cross-section of the building with the steeply sloping site. Sitting in an elevated position, and cantilevered over the garden below, the glass corners and large windows provide dramatic views down the valley below and towards the hills along the northern side of the peninsula.
