Beach House,

Blackrock Dublin

The sloping nature of this constricted coastal site has been manipulated to create a contemporary 4-bedroom split-level dwelling. The main living area is situated at beach level and uses clerestory windows above head height to make the most of the south-facing sunlight. The roof takes form from a cranked plane, as if wrapping up from the landscape itself, lifting in places to light the accommodation below. This device ensures that the adjoining Victorian dwellings are not overlooked, while crucially allowing secondary light to penetrate deep into the plan. The massing of the house and the careful selection of traditional materials ensure it is firmly rooted in the landscape and its surroundings.