Contemporary Beach Chalet - Hayle Towans
Perched on the edge of the dunes, overlooking the beach at Hayle Towans, this family-owned holiday chalet replaces one that was in need of modernisation. It is a haven of peace and tranquility, nestled into, and blending seamlessly with, the surrounding Towans, while maximising the jaw-dropping view.
The challenges involved in creating this small luxury holiday chalet were considerable with tightly controlled development within the chalet park, strict limitations to the gross footprint, design and materials being controlled and approved to ensure a harmonious whole and limited construction times scales to not affect the holiday season. The site is also set into the sloping face of the sand dune so is fully exposed to the coastal weather and accessed from a single path high above and behind the chalet.
CSA Architects’ design sought to ensure that the cottage became one with the landscape, utilising an exterior palette of dark shades, natural tones and glass. The roof is a significant feature due to the elevated approach. It’s a simple rectangular form made from marine compatible zinc sheeting, is crafted with hidden gutters and raised seams. The finish to the walls is charred timber, bringing durability and natural character, and contrasting with the stone cladding on the lower areas, which blend into the landscape.
Internally, the colours of sand, stone and dune grass carry through, allowing the open-plan living, kitchen and dining area to become part of the exterior space. The entire front of the property showcases the view, with wrap-around corner glazing to extend the panorama. The two bedrooms (double and twin), and bathroom, are compact and designed for function, with windows opening into the rear and bespoke furniture to maximise the available space and storage. The minimalist materiality and clean lines of the interior, give the chalet a modern and crisp finish which allows the lines of the changing tide to take the focus.
The family who own the chalet are delighted with the results, and will be using it for both their own holidays, and as a luxury holiday let.
Photography by Antony Greenwood