On a seaside site on the Sussex coast, a simple clapboard beach house was required, which would be highly energy efficient, and make the most of the spectacular sea views. The house is simply arranged to organise and frame the views of the sea and to bring south light and sea air into every part of the interior.

From the vistor's first arrival at the entrance verandah, on the landward side, a small window provides the first glimpse of the sea through the house. The entrance hall is flooded with light from the open upper landing, and provides a second view of the sea, through the main living area. As you enter this space the view opens up , but it is still composed by the carefully considered fenestration which presents controlled vistas as you move around the house. The house has two upstairs bedrooms arranged around a generous open landing which overlooks the sea and provides two extra box beds for occasional use. A third bedroom downstairs offers guests more privacy and incorporates an ensuite bathroom. An upstairs verandah provides the study with a secluded open space addressing the sea. Everything in the house is wood, from the natural cedar external cladding to the rough sawn internal lining boards of walls and ceilings, which along with the floors are oiled or painted white throughout. This restrained pallette of finishes and materials creates a profound calm and unity to the house, while the texture of the boarding and the rhythms of the exposed white rafters are comfortable and domestic in character. This discipline is continued to the outside, where the pool surround, pool house and other outbuildings all use the same vocabulary of materials and forms.

Although the house feels simple and natural, every detail was evolved with great care in close discussion with the enthusiastic and discriminating clients, who took a close interest in every aspect of the design. The end result is a very precise reflection of the vision and ideals of its owners, who are established and serious patrons of good architecture.