Long View — Morvah

Long View stands as a testament to the raw beauty and rich history of Cornwall's West Penwith coast. Perched atop the cliffs of Morvah, this residence commands breathtaking vistas across an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where the rugged landscape tells tales of Iron Age settlements and Cornwall's mining heritage.

Our firm, Foster Lomas, was tasked with replacing a modest 1950s bungalow with a structure that not only respects but celebrates its surroundings. Drawing inspiration from the ancient standing stones, or 'Quoits', that punctuate the landscape, we embarked on an extensive site analysis. This process deepened our understanding of the land's complex narrative, from prehistoric times to the more recent mining era, all of which have left their mark on the terrain.

The architectural language of Long View is articulated through three distinct elements, each referencing vernacular building traditions: a pronounced chimney stack, curved granite newel stairs, and a striking post-tensioned solid granite roof. Our choice of locally-sourced granite not only pays homage to the regional building techniques but also anchors the structure firmly in its context.

In a nod to medieval architecture, we adopted a cruciform plan, elevating the main living space to the first floor. This strategic positioning affords panoramic views of Portheras Cove and the sea beyond, while the bedrooms nestle into the ground floor, embracing the earth.

As architects, we view our responsibility through the lens of deep time. Long View is conceived not just for the present, but with consideration for a distant future when the structure may return to the earth, echoing the monumental prehistoric burial grounds that dot the area. This long-term perspective informs every aspect of the design, from material choices to spatial organization.

The approval of Long View has the potential to reshape local planning policy, offering a progressive interpretation of this historic landscape. It demonstrates how contemporary architecture can engage meaningfully with its context, creating a sustainable impact on the local architectural vernacular.

In essence, Long View is more than a house; it's a dialogue between past and future, land and sea, humanity and nature. It stands as a bold yet respectful addition to this ancient coastline, inviting its inhabitants to contemplate their place in the grand sweep of time.