Set in 120 acres of rural Cornwall, Porthkerris House is a new five-bedroomed, self-build, family home with an indoor dive pool, designed to the latest sustainable, low energy standards.

When it came to designing this eco-friendly home, we were mindful to incorporate design cues from traditional local structures to help the property sit comfortably in its surroundings. For example, the central tower – the house’s most striking feature – evokes memories of picturesque church steeples, tin mine chimneys and lighthouses, all of which are characteristic of the Cornish coast. Meanwhile, large panes of glass connect the house to the wonderful sea views beyond, as well as allowing it to benefit from winter solar gain.

The result is a modern family home that is not only low-energy but that has architectural integrity and that is sympathetic to its surroundings.