Dune Sunken Summer Cottage
Disguised within the dunes a short stroll to the shore sits the cedar clad summer cottage designed by ARDESS. Built on top of the original house’s foundations, the design team needed to comply with strict conservation restrictions due to its unique location. This dictated the new building’s footprint, however, it did not impair the outcome. In fact, it’s the pared-back aesthetics and form that orchestrate a simple life we’re drawn to.
ARDESS decided to use create a solid wood block which blended into the rugged surroundings and captured the beachside views. “The careful integration into the landscape is further enhanced by the consistent choice of materials. As such, Cedar has been used for the roof and façade, giving the impression of a silver wooden block – like a straight piece of driftwood where beach meets dunes,” states Sebastian Schroers.
While this may seem to be simple timber beach shack, the modern design touches like the expensive frameless glass windows and retracted entrances suggest this is a much more considered piece of architecture.
The clever use of space also sees this 54 m2 summer cottage comfortably serve two families without compromise. ADRESS met the client’s brief of providing open living areas with views to the outdoors and private retreats for the families to escape to in the evening.
“The strategy has been to design rooms and interior with multipurpose functions that can be folded in and out depending on the situation and leaving the impression of a livable Swizz Army Knife.”
Beyond an indoor living and sleeping space, the connection to the outdoors was significant. Without disrupting the natural landscape of dunes and native plants, an intimate outdoor decked area bordered by a low retaining wall provides a space for the occupants to enjoy a morning coffee while admiring the view. A few steps lead to the beach and an outdoor shower is perfectly positioned to wash off the sand before retreating indoors.
This isn’t a flash architect designed home you’d typically find by the seaside or one that provides space for ample visitors. It’s a home that respects the site’s unique position and one that retreats into the landscape appearing as though it was always there.
