Mole Architects has masterfully reimagined a modest 1960s holiday bungalow in Aldeburgh, Suffolk, a picturesque county on the coast of England in the United Kingdom, transforming it into a light-filled and elegantly proportioned home just a stone’s throw from the sea. The Stone’s Throw Residence, as the project is named, demonstrates how thoughtful design can maximize space, light, and views while respecting the existing structure and embracing sustainability.
The original bungalow suffered from a disjointed layout, with living spaces tucked away and a large, underutilized double garage dominating the prime, sunny portion of the site. The clients, who had owned the property for many years, initially considered building a completely new house. However, they recognized the inherent value of the existing structure and opted for a more sustainable and sensitive approach: a considered upgrade and extension. Their brief focused on increasing the living space and adding an en-suite bathroom, without significantly altering the overall accommodation needs.
Mole Architects‘ solution cleverly addressed the bungalow’s shortcomings. The kitchen and living room, previously confined to the south end of the plot and overshadowed by trees, were relocated. The rarely used garage at the north end was demolished to make way for a striking new extension that projects into the garden. This strategic move allowed the new living room to bask in southern sunlight and enjoy views of the garden and the trees beyond. A large east-facing window frames captivating views of the sea and the expansive sky.
The extension is the heart of the transformed home, deliberately introducing a sense of grandeur while maintaining a modest scale. A change in floor level creates a more intimate living area, while a triangular fireplace and cleverly positioned roof light draw southern light into the center of the plan. The high ceiling of the main living space is punctuated by a triangular rooflight and an angled column, subtly dividing the dining and kitchen areas from the elevated living space.
A striking feature of the interior is the central marble block, its colors and patterns reminiscent of a Maggie Hambling seascape, adding a touch of artistic flair. This sculptural element rests on a floor of end-grain woodblock, creating a warm and textured surface. The exterior of the existing bungalow has been over-clad, seamlessly unifying the old and new structures and creating a cohesive aesthetic.
Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the project. The existing house was upgraded with new double-glazed windows and doors, along with improved loft insulation. The new extension was constructed using a timber frame, and the project achieved U-values for the extension that exceeded building regulation requirements by an impressive 30%.