Building Homes for the Future: Reflections by ARCO₂
At ARCO₂, our philosophy is simple yet powerful: beautiful buildings that don’t cost the earth. For us, architecture isn’t just about designing walls and roofs — it’s about creating homes that enhance lifestyles, respect the environment, and stand the test of time for future generations.
As Director Ian Armstrong explains:
“We aren’t just about designing dwellings; we create homes with benefits that enhance your lifestyle – literally building for future generations.”
A vision brought to life: Reflections
One of the best examples of this ethos in action is Reflection, a truly one-of-a-kind coastal property designed by ARCO₂ and delivered by our sister company, ADD Sustainable Construction. This award-winning home was the result of a close collaboration between our team and the client, blending aspiration with environmental responsibility.
The site itself came with challenges. Located on a former derelict garden at the entrance to a village, it was designated as an Open Area of Local Significance (OALS). While many would have dismissed development as impossible, we saw opportunity. With sensitivity and respect, we developed a design that retained the site’s intrinsic value while realising the client’s vision.
Meeting a challenging brief
The brief called for a four-bedroom home where every room enjoyed sea views — without compromising the landscape or neighbours’ outlook. Our response was to sink the building into the landscape, harnessing natural topography and split levels to deliver dramatic open-plan spaces with panoramic outlooks. The result is a home that feels both striking and discreet, sitting lightly within its setting while offering extraordinary living spaces filled with light, views, and connection to the outdoors.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability is not an afterthought — it’s the foundation of everything we design. Reflection is one of the most sustainable dwellings in its area, built with a fabric-first approach that maximises insulation, airtightness, and energy efficiency. The outcome is a home that is as robust in performance as it is beautiful in form.
As Ian sums up:
“This house demonstrates that a strong design concept can deliver a striking home that is also deeply sustainable.”
Your turn to create something special
At ARCO₂, we thrive on challenges — whether that’s a sensitive site, a complex brief, or ambitious sustainability goals. If you’re dreaming of a home that’s as inspiring as it is efficient, let’s start the journey together.
Get in touch for a free consultation — and take the first step towards a home that enhances your lifestyle while helping protect the planet for future generations.
