completion date:
September 2017
photography by Jim Varney
The Leaf House
Reighton, North Yorkshire
Leaf House, (or rather 'The Poopdeck' as known by client), is a unique replacement dwelling with magnificent views across Filey Bay. The site previously contained a small timber building, and we were asked by Andrew Williamson (Vertigrow, York) to formulate ideas for a new house for him. The idea was to create a house with 180-degree views across the bay and to form bedroom accommodation at the rear of the building over two levels. The living space is set above ground level to maximise the view and almost appear as a stage in the landscape. Built of a cantilevered steel frame structure, the remaining structure is clad in oak weatherboarding under a green roof.
To explain the scheme to Scarborough Borough Council, card models were made and the project was well received. In correspondence from Scarborough Borough Council, a group planning officer recommended the following: ‘I consider the isolated position and spectacular setting of this site lends itself to innovative design, although such a design should relate to the landscape setting and architectural character of the area’. The scheme was seen to fully meet this criteria. It is an iconic small building, which has proved hugely popular for the many visitors to the house. The project has been featured in the regional press and a number of lifestyle magazines.