A seaside bungalow in Suffolk, England, has undergone a stunning transformation courtesy of British architectural firm Mole Architects. The Stone’s Throw bungalow, nestled in a tranquil cul-de-sac in Aldeburgh, has been revamped with a timber-framed extension that boasts sun-drenched south-facing living spaces. This renovation project was designed to serve as a holiday retreat for a couple seeking a peaceful coastal getaway.
Meredith Bowles, the founder of Mole Architects, envisioned a reimagined space that maximized the bungalow’s picturesque surroundings. The underutilized garage at the southern end of Stone’s Throw was removed to make way for a 74-square-meter extension. This new addition now houses a spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen, strategically positioned to capture the breathtaking views of the adjacent trees.
The innovative design of the extension features a timber-framed structure with a roof crafted from exposed softwood, treated with a translucent white stain. Inside, a high ceiling adorned with a triangular rooflight and angled column creates a distinctive architectural feature. The main dining and kitchen areas are separated from the elevated living space, allowing natural light to filter through north-facing clerestory windows, illuminating the interior.
One of the standout elements of the renovated kitchen is an island crafted from belvedere quartzite stone, showcasing swirling patterns reminiscent of sea-inspired artwork by Suffolk-born artist Maggi Hambling. The kitchen’s unique design is complemented by a striking floor made of end-grain woodblock, adding warmth and character to the space.
To enhance the exterior aesthetic of Stone’s Throw, Mole Architects applied a painted render to the existing bungalow and its masonry chimney. The face of the extension was clad with vertical cedar battens around tall narrow windows, offering a modern contrast to the traditional architecture of the original dwelling.
During the early design stages, Bowles drew inspiration from a 1960s single-storey house in Suffolk designed by architect Bryan Thomas, as well as Elizabethan and Jacobean long galleries like those found in Blickling Hall, a historic stately home in Norfolk. The goal was to infuse the bungalow with the grandeur and openness characteristic of that era, resulting in a significant transformation that left the clients in awe.
The Stone’s Throw project is just one of many successful ventures completed by Mole Architects, including The Big Shed educational space in Cambridgeshire and Alde Valley Barn, a charming holiday home set on a Suffolk farmyard. The studio’s dedication to innovative design and thoughtful execution shines through in each of their projects, leaving a lasting impression on both clients and admirers.
As the sun sets on the picturesque coastal town of Aldeburgh, the Stone’s Throw bungalow stands as a testament to the power of architectural ingenuity and creative vision. Mole Architects’ expertly crafted extension has not only revitalized a humble seaside retreat but has also created a space that celebrates the beauty of its natural surroundings. The success of this project serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship, leaving a lasting impact on all who have the privilege of experiencing it.
