RURAL LOW ENERGY HOUSE

Molemans Cottage sits on Cant Lane near St Minver in North Cornwall, surrounded by open countryside and sheltered by mature hedgerows that create a strong sense of privacy and connection to nature. The peaceful rural setting offered the opportunity to create a contemporary replacement home that responded carefully to both the landscape and the needs of modern family life.

The original cottage had stood empty for many years and no longer provided a warm, practical or energy efficient place to live. Rebuilding allowed the family to create a comfortable, low maintenance home designed around simplicity, wellbeing and everyday living, while retaining the calm and character of the surrounding countryside.

As experienced North Cornwall architects and Architects Cornwall, we design bespoke contemporary homes across

The site may be tucked away, but changes here still matter. A building that was too tall or too bright could stand out and harm the rural setting.  Because the land is narrow, rooms needed careful planning so they stayed bright without facing too close to the road or to neighbours.

The old cottage was cold, draughty, and hard to heat. The family asked for a home that used minimal energy and felt comfortable every season, without big bills or waste.  So, we needed to design a place that would protect privacy, improve comfort, and keep the countryside character that made the place special.

The new home keeps a similar position and scale to the cottage that was here before, so nothing feels out of place from the lane.  The plan makes the most of daylight, with the main living spaces placed where the family can sit together and enjoy the garden.

Bedrooms are arranged so people can close the door and settle, with nature just beyond the glass.  Materials like stone, render, and timber suit the rural surroundings and will age well over time. Every window, door, and wall was planned to keep warmth inside and protect from bad weather.  The result is a simple layout that feels clear to move around and give the family enjoyment of every day in their new house

Now the house feels bright, comfortable, and easy to use.  The family can spend time together in the main living areas, or take quiet moments in their own rooms when they want space, taking advantage of countryside views.

From the road, it looks modest and familiar, still fitting the rhythm of Cant Lane. In the garden, it feels private, wrapped by hedges and planting that make the outdoors a real part of the home.  The roof terrace discretely captures distant sea views.

What was once a forgotten cottage is now a home ready for many years ahead. A place made for the people who live there and for the countryside around it.

This home was designed so the family can stay comfortable without using lots of energy.  Triple glazing, super insulation and efficient lighting make daily life easy and affordable.  Every room feels warm in winter and cool in summer, without the old problems of draughts or dampness.

A rooftop terrace creates a special place to enjoy the countryside and evening light.  It gives the family somewhere to sit out, relax, and spend time together without overlooking neighbours.  The simple shape and materials help the home feel part of the rural setting, not separate from it.

Sustainability was a priority from the first steps of construction.  The walls and roof are packed with recycled and natural insulation, and careful detailing stops heat from escaping.  These choices mean the house runs efficiently today and is ready for the future.