Skylark, a barn-style self-build property from Giles Arthur Architects with spectacular views overlooking Alnmouth Bay, blends beautifully with the unspoilt Northumbrian landscape
Originally constructed as a rural storage facility, the long single storey timber and stone structure, which now accommodates the architect’s own studio and a holiday let, unobtrusively hugs the landscape and is very much grounded in the ‘spirit of the region’.
The architect has retained the uncomplicated character of the original building, with its rolling barn doors, and has been meticulous in choosing sustainable low VOC, paint-free materials including natural plaster walls, birch plywood joinery, a natural acoustic panel ceiling and bamboo floors. Sitka spruce structural posts were sourced from the property’s own woodland and the porch was lined with local reclaimed timber.
Central to the design were large format made-to-measure triple glazed Alu Clad windows and sliding doors from Allan Brothers, which stretched 2.5 metres high. These were crafted from FSC sourced Scandinavian timber with a natural stain on the interior and clad on the exterior with a durable aluminium finish power coated in a subtle grey to blend with the existing joinery and rural setting.
“Having looked at lots of different suppliers, Allan Brothers was the only manufacturer able to deliver such large bespoke sizes with the high level of energy efficiency and durability that we required,” said Principal, Giles Arthur.
“We are pleased with their quality and their clean uncomplicated aesthetic, which allows visitors to enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the coastline from the comfort of a naturally lit living space where they can unwind and reconnect with nature.”
For more information about Giles Arthur Architects: https://www.gilesarthur.co.uk