House Llandudno

Bomax Architects

Short description

House Llandudno is a bold, statuesque home cast in off-shutter concrete overlooking the Cape Atlantic. Designed for clients with an intimate understanding of contemporary architecture and minimalist style, its concrete forms serve as a passive design solution for this coastal residence that integrates with the surrounding nature.

The design challenge was creating an uninterrupted eave structure that would withstand the harsh Cape storms without obstructing the breathtaking ocean vistas. Collaborating with leading international engineers and a specialised concrete form-work team, we designed and built a stunning concrete structure with deep cantilevered off-shutter forms. These shapes embrace the morning sun over Judas Peak and shield the home from the glaring, reflective afternoon rays, creating a weightless illusion as they elegantly cantilever over the horizon with large open spans.
These unique intricate, razor-edge, downward-sloping cantilevers proved a technical feat, requiring meticulous consideration of the unsupported length, shrinkage, temperature changes, and the long-term marine environment weathering. Through relentless teamwork and extensive workshops, we surmounted these challenges with finesse.

The house comprises two interconnected structures linked by an underground funicular tunnelled into granite. The main dwelling caters to the owners, while a separate annexe offers independent accommodation for visiting family and friends. A striking 25m rim-flow pool gracefully divides the forms, adding rhythm and balance while adhering to height and bulk restrictions.

The interior design is simple and serene, allowing the natural surroundings to command attention. The selection of tactile, worn and brushed materials-granite, boulders from the site, sand, and driftwood from the beach- inspired the material palette. Sustainability and energy efficiency were prioritised, with an automation system reducing energy demand, creating a future-proof 'off-grid' dwelling. Passive design solutions, including heat-sinking concrete, strategic orientation and roof gardens, ensure thermal comfort without mechanical cooling. Sustainable materials like bamboo and lava stone further exemplify the eco-conscious approach, evident throughout the entire design journey.