Gaia
A luxury holiday home located on the North Cornish coast at Widemouth Bay.
Gaia exemplifies the harmonious blend of modern architectural design with the rugged beauty of its natural setting. Designed as a coastal retreat that emphasises eco-friendly living, Gaia is a property that responds thoughtfully to its environment, capturing the essence of contemporary, sustainable architecture. With its bold, linear forms and understated aesthetic, Gaia is striking yet sympathetic to its surroundings, allowing the building to nestle naturally into the coastal landscape.
The property’s orientation and layout have been meticulously planned to maximise the sweeping views of Black Rock Beach and the vast Atlantic horizon. Embracing an upside-down living arrangement, Gaia’s main living spaces and master bedroom are elevated to the first floor, creating a panoramic experience for guests, whether they are seated in the living area or relaxing in bed. The first floor opens up with full-width glass sliding doors, inviting natural light to flood the interior and establishing a seamless connection with the outdoors. This design choice not only capitalises on the site’s views but enhances the indoor-outdoor flow, essential for the relaxed, immersive experience that Gaia offers.
Constructed with environmentally conscious materials and powered by renewable energy sources, Gaia’s commitment to sustainability is integral to its design ethos. Solar panels and heat pumps provide eco-friendly heating, while sustainably sourced materials and an avoidance of single-use products underscore its low-impact philosophy. This dedication to eco-living is balanced with an emphasis on luxury, ensuring that environmental responsibility does not come at the expense of comfort.
The aesthetic of Gaia is one of refined simplicity. Clad in dark, weathered timber, the exterior mirrors the tones of the coastal cliffs and marram grass, allowing the building to blend effortlessly with its natural surroundings. Inside, the design is sophisticated yet relaxed, with super soft resin flooring, custom-made furniture, and a central open-plan layout that encourages social interaction. Large skylights, hanging bulb features, and a lack of TV in the main living room foster a sense of tranquillity, while features such as a Finnish sauna, hot tub, and dedicated yoga space highlight the property’s focus on wellness and relaxation.
Set directly on the beach, Gaia offers privacy with its high walls and secluded outdoor spaces, yet immediate access to the beach and coastal paths. The property is more than a holiday home; it is an architectural statement, blending cutting-edge design with a profound respect for the landscape. Gaia embodies a place where modern luxury meets environmental mindfulness, providing guests with an unforgettable stay in tune with the tides and rhythms of the North Cornish coast.
Images/video courtesy of Beach Retreats: https://www.beachretreats.co.
Location:
Bude