Project Description: Contemporary extension & remodel to existing dwelling in Cliff Road, Birchington, Kent including a large new outbuilding
Total Gross Internal Area: Existing 215.24m²; Proposed 303.88m² + Outbuilding 77.49m²
Planning Granted: July 2024
Procurement Method: Partially managed by Client using main builder for most of the works supplemented by appointing individual subcontractors and purchasing high value materials direct from suppliers.
Construction Technique: Mass concrete trench fill foundations with a solid concrete ground floor structure, load bearing masonry full fill cavity & timber frame external walls finished in Monocouche render, split tiles & cedar cladding. Windows, doors and facias are all black along with slate to the main roof and Sikalastic to the flat roof dormers resulting in a very sharp, modern structure which was a stand-out dwelling in the road.
Blackrock Architecture Appointment: Design development and planning services were undertaken alongside the preparation of comprehensive working drawing packages, detailed construction assemblies and a full materials and workmanship specification to guide delivery on site. Ongoing ad-hoc support was also provided throughout the construction phase to assist the contractor and client team, ensuring design intent was maintained and key detailing resolved as works progressed.
The existing two-storey dwelling was structurally sound and generously proportioned, however the property had become extremely dated both aesthetically and functionally, requiring a complete modernisation to meet contemporary standards of living. Particular consideration was given to improving thermal performance due to the exposed coastal setting. Insulation levels were significantly upgraded across the building envelope and all existing glazing replaced with high-performance triple glazed units to enhance comfort, reduce heat loss and improve resilience against prevailing sea-front conditions. Renewable technologies including photovoltaic panels and integrated battery storage were incorporated to reduce long-term operational energy demand and future household running costs.
As with many properties of this period, the internal layout no longer reflected modern patterns of occupation. The ground floor arrangement was therefore comprehensively reconfigured to create a generous open-plan kitchen, dining and family living space forming the social heart of the home. This space maximises natural daylight and visual connection through extensive glazing oriented towards both the garden and coastal views beyond. A practical and well-proportioned utility room was introduced to support everyday family use while maintaining clear separation between functional and social spaces.
In contrast to the openness of the main living area, a separate snug lounge was designed to provide a more intimate and retreat-like environment. Conceived as a comfortable evening space for relaxation and film viewing, the room is centred around a double-sided log burner which visually and physically connects adjoining spaces while reinforcing a sense of warmth and enclosure during colder months.
At first floor level, the existing provision of four bedrooms was retained as it comfortably satisfied the client’s accommodation requirements. Rather than increasing bedroom numbers, the design focused on enhancing spatial quality and experience. A new galleried landing with a vaulted ceiling was introduced, transforming what was previously circulation space into a light-filled reading and study area with uninterrupted views towards the sea. Bedrooms facing the coastline were further enhanced through enlarged window openings and new glazed doors providing access onto a balcony, significantly improving outlook, daylight penetration and the occupants’ engagement with the surrounding landscape.
In addition to the main house works, a substantial detached outbuilding was designed to provide long-term flexibility of use. The structure accommodates a wide range of potential functions including guest accommodation, home working studio, gymnasium, summerhouse or independent short-term rental such as Airbnb use. The adaptable nature of the building ensures it can evolve alongside the changing needs of the family over time.
The completed project represents a comprehensive transformation rather than a conventional extension. Careful integration of new and existing fabric, together with a consistent palette of materials and refined detailing, has resulted in a cohesive architectural outcome. The finished dwelling reads as a bespoke one-off coastal home, where alterations and additions are visually seamless, delivering a contemporary, energy-efficient and highly functional family residence suited to its dramatic seaside setting.
