LANHERNE HEIGHTS
PRIVATE HOMES
THE PROJECT
Replacement Dwelling
Location: Mawgan Porth, Cornwall
A Contemporary Home on a Coastal Site
Lanherne Heights is a replacement dwelling in the heart of Mawgan Porth, set within a steeply sloping site with distant views towards the countryside and coast. The existing 1980s house did little to respond to the site's natural levels or make the most of its setting, providing an opportunity for a more considered approach.
Our involvement covered Stages 1–5, from the initial brief and site appraisal through to planning, detailed design and construction. The new home was developed around the site's topography, the character of Mawgan Porth and the clients' ambition for a high-quality, energy-efficient home for the future.
Working with the Landscape
The house is arranged as a series of split levels, allowing the building to follow the natural fall of the site rather than imposing a conventional two-storey form. This reduces its perceived mass while creating a clear separation between the living and sleeping accommodation.
The principal living spaces are positioned towards the south and west, opening onto roof terraces and taking advantage of the site's longer views. Large sliding doors extend the living areas outdoors, creating a strong connection with the surrounding landscape.
Light, Privacy & Views
The orientation of the house carefully balances openness with privacy. Larger areas of glazing are concentrated towards the south and west, framing views across the countryside and towards the sea, while narrower openings to the north and east provide more controlled outlooks towards the surrounding roads and neighbouring properties.
The master bedroom benefits from its own private terrace and carefully framed coastal views, with existing boundary planting helping to maintain privacy.
A Contemporary Coastal Palette
The architectural language combines smooth white render, natural stone and metal cladding beneath a standing-seam metal roof. Black aluminium windows and glazed doors reinforce the contemporary character, while the stone elements provide a more tactile connection to the coastal setting.
The result is a contemporary replacement home that responds directly to its steep site, makes the most of its coastal setting and provides a flexible, energy-conscious home designed for long-term use.