Peak Architects' competition proposal for a new beach café & facilities at Silecroft Beach in Cumbria, focuses around a large flexible space filled with light and boasting views to the coast and Black Combe Fell. Silecroft Beach is on the edge of the Lake District, adjacent to the Cumbria Coastal Way, a popular destination for locals and tourists.
The concept of the design was to create a sheltered, but light filled communal space to be enjoyed all year round. The building is low lying in the terrain and blends with the landscape through its form and materials.
Sustainability is key to the design concept, proposing the use of local materials for cladding and a low lying green roof planted with native species. The scheme also incorporates rainwater harvesting and maximises the natural lighting.
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Peak Architects look to use durable, robust and hard wearing materials to match the exposed nature of the site. The use of stone gabions refers, not only to the banks leading to the beach, but also to the local stone walls found in the nearby village. Corten weathering steel is also employed in evoking images of rusting boats in harbours and along the seashore.
Two solid masses frame a light and open flexible central space with courtyard. A series of pivoting metal screens provide a windbreak without comprising the views to the sea. The screens can be shut to offer protection to the building when the cafe is closed. Exhibition, retail and tourist display information is integrated within the architecture.
