A mid-century renovation project overlooking the water in south Cornwall
Anyone who has had the pleasure of visiting south Cornwall can attest that it has natural beauty in abundance. Its landscape comprises calm coves, tidal creeks and lush exotic gardens, while its microclimate, which results in warm tropical summers that could turn the rest of the UK green with envy. The village of Malpas, which lies on the confluence of the Truro and Tresillian rivers, has access to all the outdoorsy delights that draw many to the Cornish riveria – whether you prefer walking or wild swimming, kayaking or boating. And culture buffs needn’t fear either: the town of Newlyn, which is known for its art scene, is less than an hour’s drive away.
The house’s elevated position, two miles downstream from Truro, means it has the most spectacular views of its surroundings. Peer out the full-height picture windows in the living room, for instance, and the water – bobbing with quaint fishing boats – will be waving below. When it comes to looking around the house, however, we ask that you use your imagination. The interiors are a little dated – but there are signs of great potential too. The original mosaic parquet flooring, which runs underfoot in the entrance and living space, and the mid-century cabinetry, dividing the kitchen and dining room, are well worth keeping.
The plans for the house have been drawn up by DART, a young Cornish practice that has a deep understanding and appreciation of this wild and wonderful pocket of the UK. These have been approved to increase the footprint from 1,340sq ft to more than 2,310sq ft, which includes a two-storey extension of the gable end. Oh, and the addition of a south-facing balcony – the idea of which gets us very excited indeed. It’s important to note that sustainability is at the heart of DART, which champions the use of materials and energy solutions that have as minimal an impact on the planet as possible. It gives us comfort knowing the project is in good hands. All that’s needed now is a buyer to see it through.
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