Cornwall Retreat by London-based architecture and interior design studio De Rosee Sa draws on the area’s architectural lineage and its clifftop aspect to provide a retreat for a family of surf enthusiasts.
From the exterior, the timber-clad home presents a modest profile, mirroring the height of the surrounding gables. “The house is deliberately discreet, respecting the scale and character of the coastal setting,” director Max de Rosée says. Upon entering, the hallway offers a first glimpse of the sea—framed in a single, dramatic view that defines the spirit of the house. “The entrance is designed as a moment of surprise, clad in the same timber with no windows, so that when the door opens, the coastline suddenly reveals itself straight through the house. That framing of the view is one of the project’s most striking features,” de Rosée continues. Every room takes in the Cornish landscape and shapes how the house is experienced.
In contrast to the couple’s more traditional home in London—also modernised by De Rosee Sa—tactile, earthy finishes like “breathable clay paint, warm timbers and locally sourced stone” were used in the design. A central staircase with timber balustrade, wide oak floors, tailored joinery, and linen sofa designed by the studio reinforces the home’s sense of place. “This hands-on, crafted approach meant that the furniture and built elements feel inseparable from the architecture, part of a unified vision,” De Rosee Sa senior project architect George Yallop explains.
Sustainability and durability were also key components, with the choice of materials and orientation helping to regulate humidity and make the most of natural light and solar comfort. These principles extend to the practical details as reflected in the inclusion of “a dedicated surf room” with terrazzo-lined floors and walls, oak cabinetry for storage, large wash basin, custom drying rails and an outdoor shower.
The planning of the home, including the main bedroom suite set within the roof volume, unobtrusively maximises space—keeping the scale of the residence to a minimum. Further supporting the family’s active lifestyle, the ground floor is organised around the home’s shared spaces, designed to be open and interconnected. Here, the kitchen and living room are divided by partial walls with walkways and shelving, maintaining a sense of flow while subtly defining each area.
“Bedrooms are tucked into the lower ground floor, while living spaces and framed views open outwards”. This layout, Yallop emphasises, creates a natural flow through the home and out to the garden where Cornish stone, terracing and soft landscaping enhance what was already present—adding considered, purposeful elements to suit the home’s surf coast location.
Nemo Applique à Volet Pivotant wall lights designed by Charlotte Perriand, and rug by Pampa.
A sculptural limestone fireplace anchors the living room, softened by linen sofas, sheer curtains and oak shelving. Pictured: Another Country Another sofa, and Pinch Pium wall lights.
Lime-render and timber-lined ceilings layer tones that echo sand, stone and driftwood. Pictured: Bauwerk limewash in Cassava in the living room.
Santa & Cole TMM Largo wall lights and Another Country Hardy loveseat.
Le Klint Carronade wall lights
Bathrooms are clad in Tundra stone slabs and handmade Zellige tiles.
