LE VAU TOCQUE, ST BRELADE

The objectives of the project were to release the character and spirit of the house, trapped in the shell of the original building and to realise its potential to enjoy the spectacular views from its setting.

The original large bungalow had an interesting and refined plan but was dark and introverted with little attempt made to relate to the garden and landscape beyond. The context is a group of similar buildings of similar age, all jealously guarding their privacy.

The design approach is predicated on an architectural and poetic enjoyment of the idea of “dwelling” with clearly defined spaces and both visual and physical connections between rooms. There is a perceived expansion of space through views to “outdoor rooms” and physical expansion by means of sliding screens. The proposal was therefore to open up living spaces to each other and to the garden, light and landscape.

The extension provides an enlarged family and dining room, contiguous with the kitchen and opens up the space to the sunniest and most sheltered part of the garden, whilst capturing and framing the spectacular views over the landscape and St Brelade’s Bay beyond.

Materials and finishes are robust, as demanded by an exposed site, with painted rendered walls throughout. Subtle shades of colour distinguish the main body of the house and its extensions. Windows are timber-aluminium composite frames, with the warmth of timber internally and tough powder coated aluminium externally. A slate roof with deep overhanging eaves expresses the idea of shelter and the project shows a supreme quality of workmanship by the contractor and sub-contractors.
The result is a sophisticated and urbane house in a suburban setting with expanded landscape and sea views.

Photographer: Andy Le Gresley
Building Contractor: Larsen