Bay House is presented as a one-off new-build home designed to respond sensitively to a demanding coastal setting. The project uses a curved architectural language to shape the plan, control movement and frame outward views, while opening the interior to daylight from several directions. The submission positions the house as a carefully considered family home that combines visual clarity, comfort and functional planning within a refined contemporary form.
The material strategy and spatial organisation are described as central to the project's character. Natural finishes, restrained detailing and a broken-plan living arrangement are used to create varied yet connected spaces, with an emphasis on calm atmosphere and craftsmanship. The overall approach aims to balance elegance with liveability, presenting a house that is intended to feel settled, practical and closely related to its landscape.
Judges praised the project for its elegant response to the site, strong spatial planning and the way architecture, interiors and landscape are integrated into a coherent whole. They highlighted the confident use of natural materials, carefully framed views and the refined detailing of the curved circulation space, describing Bay House as a timeless and well-proportioned home with strong liveability and a high level of design quality.
WHAT THE JUDGES SAID:
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The curved design approach is particularly compelling, with a clear and simple ethos guiding the internal forms and spatial composition. The views are thoughtfully framed through well-coordinated openings and windows, allowing abundant natural light to be drawn into the house from multiple directions.
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An exceptional response to a challenging coastal site, where the architecture, landscape and interiors are fully integrated. The house feels unearthed from the landscape rather than imposed upon it. Beautifully resolved spatial planning.
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Subtle and elegant. The interiors have a quiet confidence, with exceptional spatial planning, material restraint and atmosphere. The interiors are calm, beautifully proportioned and deeply connected to their landscape through a refined palette of stone, oak and lime plaster.
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Highly commended:
Porthmadog House by Ström Architects
