Conservation architects Donald Insall Associates have constructed an A-framed house in the ‘model’ estate village of Llandwrog, which features pitched roofs that mirror those of its closest neighbour – a 19th century parish church.
Situated on a prominent site amongst a collection of Grade-II listed buildings in the centre of the North Wales village, the A-framed form was inspired by the traditional design of local domestic buildings, and pays homage to the adjacent St Twrog’s church with its triangular gable end.
The fully-glazed, east facing gable provides vistas from the open-plan living space and the master bedroom above, framed by structural timber elements.
By selecting the traditional A-frame construction method, the tapering mass of the structure allowed important views between the gothic church and the surrounding countryside to be maintained.
An existing outbuilding on the edge of the site was retained and reroofed, adjoining the new structure to provide a snug. It’s thick, natural stone walls are left partly exposed forming internal partitions that contrast with the otherwise white interior.
Inside, timber accents feature in the kitchen and throughout the property, serving as a reminder of the dwelling’s structure. A wooden staircase sits centrally along the spine of the house, with a breakfast bar tucked beneath.
Playful features included in the design for this family-orientated home include a colourful climbing wall, which leads through a void in the upstairs ceiling into a private loft space above.
Externally, the architects have rooted the dwelling into its conservation area location by constructing the building with local slate and stone, which according to the architects “enhances its setting within Llandwrog by reflecting the village aesthetic to stimulate contemporary sustainable design.”
Housing a bank of solar panels to its south-facing pitch, a segment of the roof has been removed before it reaches ground level to make way for the entrance, and a loggia – an elongated patio – which overlooks the garden.
Located close to the North-Wales coast, Llandwrog was built as a model estate village in the 19th century by Lord Newborough on land provided by the nearby Plas Glynllifon mansion – a stately home which is currently being converted into a luxury hotel.
Photography by Andy Marshall.