Gorran Haven, Cornwall
GLENCOT
Glencot is a new sustainable family home which replaces a small timber chalet in an attractive woodland plot.
A HOME AMONG THE WOODS
The clients selected a woodland plot on the edge of Gorran Haven, Cornwall for their new home, surrounded by mature trees with distant sea views beyond. The site had previously accommodated a small timber chalet, but the vision for the new home was to create something more sustainable, practical and closely connected to the natural landscape.
Designed for retirement living, the home was carefully planned to provide comfort, simplicity and flexibility for family life and visiting guests. The architectural approach focused on maximising natural light, strengthening the relationship with the woodland setting and using materials that felt appropriate to the character of the site and surrounding Cornish landscape.
As experienced Architects Cornwall, we create bespoke homes across Cornwall that respond carefully to their environment, combining sustainable design, natural materials and contemporary living.
Awards and recognition
BUILDING IN AN AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY -
RESPECTING NATURE, NEIGHBOURS, AND FAMILY NEEDS
From the first visit, it was clear that building at Glencot meant working carefully with the woodland landscape. We focused on protecting mature trees and responding to the character of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The design needed to feel settled in the landscape and keep neighbours’ concerns in mind, including height and light levels. Every decision centred on creating a home that felt good to use without taking away from what already made the site special.
A DESIGN GUIDED BY THE WOODS AND THE SUN
LIVING WELL AND CONNECTED TO NATURE
Glencot was planned around how the clients wanted to live. The main rooms face south, filled with daylight and warmth where family and visitors can gather and relax. Windows frame views of the trees, making the woodland part of everyday life. Outdoor spaces link naturally with the living areas, encouraging time spent outside. By keeping the building’s height modest and using local stone and timber, the house sits comfortably among the trees.
A HOME DESIGNED FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER
COMFORT, WELLBEING, AND PEACE OF MIND FOR HARRIET AND MATTHEW
Glencot provides a home that feels calm and easy to use. Strong insulation and well positioned glazing keep the house comfortable throughout the year. From the road, the building feels modest and familiar. From within the woodland, it feels open and connected to the outdoors. It is a home ready for the years ahead, shaped around the people who live there and the place they chose.
DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS
WOODLAND VIEWS
This home was shaped to feel part of the woodland. Windows and outdoor spaces look straight to the trees, so nature is always close. It creates a calm, private environment that the whole family can enjoy every day.
A HOME IN AN AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY
The site sits within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so every part of the design needed to respect the landscape. The form stays modest. Materials are familiar to the area. The house feels connected to the countryside and protects what makes the place special.
BUILT FOR SUSTAINABILITY
The home uses natural and locally sourced materials to keep energy use low. Good insulation and smart planning keep it comfortable through every season, without depending on lots of power. The garden softens into the surrounding nature, helping wildlife and keeping the woodland intact.
