Kestrel and Kite

Contemporary Homes Inspired by Place

Kestrel and Kite are two bespoke contemporary homes designed to replace a pair of outdated semi-detached properties in West Wittering. Commissioned by a local developer, the project demonstrates how carefully considered architecture can increase the value and quality of residential development while responding sensitively to its coastal setting.

Although conceived as a pair, each house has its own distinct architectural identity. Together they form a cohesive composition that reflects the character of the surrounding landscape and local vernacular without resorting to pastiche.

A Modern Interpretation of Local Architecture

The design draws inspiration from the agricultural buildings and coastal homes that define the area. Timber cladding, cedar shingles and crisp white render create a contemporary interpretation of familiar local materials, allowing each house to feel rooted in its setting while expressing its own character.

The contrasting material palettes distinguish the two homes, giving each a unique identity while maintaining a shared architectural language across the development.

Form, Light and Privacy

The two buildings are arranged at right angles to one another, breaking down their overall mass and creating a composition reminiscent of traditional farmstead buildings. This arrangement improves privacy between the homes, captures views and optimises natural daylight throughout the interiors.

A mature hedgerow screens the ground floor from the street, while carefully proportioned first-floor volumes sit comfortably within the surrounding streetscape, balancing openness with a sense of enclosure.

Large areas of glazing, refined detailing and concealed eaves contribute to a calm, contemporary architectural expression, with every element carefully considered to create clean, elegant forms.

Materiality and Sustainability

The restrained material palette combines timber, cedar shingles, white render and dark aluminium detailing to create homes that are both contemporary and enduring. Hidden rainwater goods and carefully resolved junctions reinforce the simplicity of the architecture while allowing the materials to take centre stage.

Environmental performance informed the design throughout. The orientation of the houses maximises passive solar gain, while sedum roofs help compensate for habitat loss, encourage biodiversity and soften the visual impact of the development within its semi-rural setting.

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