Riverside House, Plymouth

TALES FROM

the riverbank

We were commissioned to create a contextually-sensitive, contemporary home on the banks of the River Tamar. Designed to house two generations of the same family, the house comprises a two-storey, three-bedroom dwelling above a single-storey annexe.

In recognition of the ecological sensitivity of the site, the new house was been designed to make the lightest possible impact on the landscape. Slender legs support the building and permit local wildlife to continue using their existing pathways on the riverbank.  The accommodation above weaves in between the tree canopies preserving the local habitat.  A crisp contemporary aesthetic responds to the inspiring riverside location, maximising both views and space.

The steeply sloping, heavily wooded site presented a tough design challenge but by working closely with our clients, the local authority tree officer and an arboriculture consultant, we have created a building which respects the integrity of the landscape without compromising on architectural style. Perseverance in dealing with Planning and Environment Agency concerns was key to successfully gaining planning permission on this riverside site.