Seaside Architecture
A new multi generational family holiday home inspired by a London Tram
This iconic plot has a strong history with the client, and through careful analysis and thought we are redeveloping the site to create their dream holiday home for multi-generational living. The new footprint isn’t much bigger than the existing plot, however it creates three separate dwellings, effective and eclectic. Although the existing tram and buildings are in a state of disrepair, it still has charm and a strong identity, particularly amongst the styles along the beachfront. Along the West Wittering’s coast, there’s few tram buildings that opportune these fantastic views of the horizon, a detail notably considered in the redesign.
Feature
Marine Drive West includes recreating the former London tram carriage that stood on the site, most of which has been ‘lost to generations of repairs and modifications’ after being exposed to the elements for more than a century. The Kent-based practice has already built two neighbouring homes.
Architects Journal
Celebrating the Tram
Replacing a seaside icon
After the First World War, settlement began on the West Wittering beachfront when trams and railway carriages were transported to the coast. These were to be repurposed as holiday homes, with folk setting claim to the magnificent south facing sea views and unspoilt seafront.
After the First World War, settlement began on the West Wittering beachfront when trams and railway carriages were transported to the coast. These were to be repurposed as holiday homes, with folk setting claim to the magnificent south facing sea views and unspoilt seafront.
Plan
Floor Plan
Celebrating Family Legacies
The original settlers
This site is particularly special for this client, as it was their grandfather who dragged this tram house to the coastline by horse. He was also a boat builder, and so he built boats in the sheds behind the tram house. This makes the design a true celebration of the tram and the family legacy of boat building by the coast.
This site is particularly special for this client, as it was their grandfather who dragged this tram house to the coastline by horse. He was also a boat builder, and so he built boats in the sheds behind the tram house. This makes the design a true celebration of the tram and the family legacy of boat building by the coast.
Iconic style
First wave of the modernist movement
The design draws on the rich local heritage, reflecting both historical and personal influences. The colours reference the traditional paintwork of the London Tram Company, while the arched form celebrates the early holiday homes—converted railway carriages—that once defined the area’s character. Pops of the first modernist wave are present throughout, exemplified by the nearby De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill. Stained timber elements also offer a personal connection, referencing the client’s grandfather’s boat building on the site.