Cliff House is a contemporary and highly sustainable family home, set on a dramatic clifftop plot on the Gower Peninsula. Designed to capture the glowing Gower sunsets, the home’s striking, layered form minimizes its impact on the landscape and complements the nearby post-war housing. This project aims to create a “forever home” for the client, adapting to meet both current needs and potential future living requirements.
Key design elements ensure exceptional long-term energy performance, surpassing passive house standards to make it one of the first net-zero energy homes in the region. An air source heat pump and underfloor heating system are combined with whole-house mechanical heat recovery ventilation. Hot water is stored in cylinder tanks, with solar panels supporting the air source heat pump.
Constructed with insulated concrete formwork, the building’s highly insulated, airtight perimeter provides substantial energy efficiency. To balance the solid building fabric, a cedar-clad balcony frame captures sea views, creating a layered visual effect with vertical and horizontal planes. Angled louvers maintain transparency through the home while preserving privacy, providing wind protection, and offering adaptable rain canopies and solar shading at the entrance. At the rear, a semi-open courtyard, barbecue area, and landscaped garden allow the homeowners to embrace the outdoors and further immerse themselves in the setting.
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