C-House
Location:
Guernsey, Channel Islands
Client:
Private
Visualisations and drawings:
SOUP
We are delighted to share that our C-House project, situated on the East coast of Guernsey near St. Peter Port, has received formal planning approval. This carefully conceived replacement family home is designed to complement its coastal setting, offering refined architectural features and timeless functionality. We look forward to moving forward with the next stages and keeping you updated as the project progresses.
The architectural concept adopts a linear form, strategically aligned to optimise natural light and spatial efficiency. The massing has been carefully calibrated to achieve a contextual fit, avoiding visual dominance while maintaining a contemporary architectural presence. Key design moves include recessed planes, articulated elevations, and thoughtful massing to create a coherent yet dynamic interplay of volumes.
The internal spatial arrangement reflects a modernist approach, balancing open-plan functionality with clearly delineated zones. The ground floor prioritises Kitchen, Dining & Sitting spaces, seamlessly connecting to landscaped gardens through large-format glazing. Private areas, including bedrooms and a study, are located on the first floor, with carefully oriented fenestration to maximise light while safeguarding privacy.
Material selection is intrinsic to the architectural narrative, emphasising durability, sustainability, and aesthetic refinement. Cement-bonded particle boards clad the elevations in complementary light and dark tones, providing a robust yet sophisticated finish that harmonises with the contextual granite elements. Frameless glass balustrades and precision-engineered aluminium-framed glazing articulate the modernist ethos, highlighting clarity in design and construction.
The low-pitched zinc roof integrates photovoltaic arrays, aligning with the sustainability agenda while maintaining a minimal and contextually sympathetic roofline. These material choices ensure longevity while reducing the building’s embodied carbon, exemplifying a responsible and forward-thinking architectural approach.
The proposal demonstrates a "fabric-first" methodology, exceeding contemporary thermal standards through enhanced insulation, airtight construction, and high-performance glazing. Passive solar strategies include shading devices and operable roof lights, which support natural ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling. A finned west-facing façade not only introduces architectural depth but also mitigates solar gain and enhances privacy.
Water conservation measures and a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system further reinforce the dwelling’s environmental credentials, minimising resource consumption while ensuring occupant comfort. The design adheres to the principles outlined in Guernsey’s Island Development Plan, particularly policies GP8 and GP9, which prioritise sustainable and high-quality architectural outcomes.
