Broad Beach House, Rhosneigr
A striking new-build home balancing modern architectural ambition with sensitivity to its coastal Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) setting. Key Features: AONB Site, Contextual 3D Modelling, Vaulted Ceilings, Glazed GablesLocation: Rhosneigr, AngleseySector: Private Residential / New-BuildScope: Full Architectural Services (RIBA Stages 0-5) The Challenge: Designing within an AONB Located on a prominent seafront plot in the coastal village of Rhosneigr, Anglesey, our brief was to design a dream new-build beach house. Because the site is situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the primary challenge was ensuring that the natural beauty of the surroundings was not just conserved, but actively enhanced. Any new structure in this environment faces strict scrutiny regarding its massing, aesthetic impact, and integration into the existing coastal landscape. The Solution: Creative Collaboration and Contextual Modelling To navigate the strict planning constraints, we initiated early and ongoing discussions with the local authority. Rather than relying on standard 2D drawings, we presented our concept options using highly accurate photomontages. By superimposing our 3D building model directly onto photographs of the beach, we provided the Council with a realistic representation of the final build. When the Council expressed reservations about the overall height of the building’s massing, we used this feedback as a catalyst for a creative design solution. We introduced a section of flat roof along the main ridge. This successfully reduced the overall height to secure planning approval, while simultaneously emphasizing the striking features of the gable ends. The Result: A Light-Filled Coastal Retreat Using a modern palette of materials, we delivered a visually stunning home that feels intimately connected to its environment. The steep roof pitch allowed us to maximize the extensive glazing. The predominantly glazed gables flood the internal spaces with natural sunlight while framing uninterrupted, panoramic views of the beach. Inside, the combination of large windows and vaulted ceilings ensures the bedroom spaces feel exceptionally grand and spacious. Great effort was dedicated to the aesthetic design and proportions of the home, referencing the golden ratio to create a visually interesting composition that we are immensely proud of. The delivery of the project was exceptional, realized through an acute eye for detail and excellent craftsmanship.
Random, Rhosneigr: A Contemporary Coastal Retreat
A robust, flexible, and sustainable 8-bedroom beach house on the Anglesey coast. At a Glance The Challenge: Balancing Scale with Sensitivity Located on the “back of the beach” in Rhosneigr, the brief was to demolish an existing property and replace it with a modern, substantially larger home. As both the client and the architect, we wanted to maximize the site’s potential to create a spacious 8-bedroom holiday home that also functions as our satellite office in North Wales. The challenge was delivering this increased massing without overwhelming the plot or upsetting the delicate coastal context. We needed to navigate strict Council planning requirements and ensure that the new structure respected the sightlines and amenities of neighbouring properties. The Solution: Future-Proofed Coastal Design As Architects in North Wales, we understand that coastal environments are harsh and family needs change. We designed “Random” with adaptability and durability at its heart. 1. Designed for Adaptability We didn’t just design for today; we designed for decades to come. The layout allows the property to be easily split into two autonomous dwellings without compromise. We also integrated a hidden lift shaft, ensuring the house can age with its occupants and remain accessible. 2. Contextual Materials To ensure the building sits comfortably in its landscape, we utilized local granite from Trefor Quarry alongside Cedar cladding. These materials not only ground the building in the Welsh context but were chosen to weather naturally, reducing long-term maintenance requirements. 3. Maximizing the Experience A large open-plan living space occupies the ground floor, connecting seamlessly to a sheltered dining space in the garden. We utilized extensive glazing to flood the home with natural light and frame the stunning coastal views. 4. Technology & Sustainability Using 3D BIM (Building Information Modelling), we were able to visualize every detail before construction, ensuring precise coordination. The home operates sustainably via air-source heating, variable speed pumps, and smart internet controls for remote management. The Result Ten years post-completion, the property stands as a testament to quality Beach House design. The materials have withstood the elements of the Irish Sea, and the property continues to look fantastic with minimal maintenance. The house has become a local landmark, frequently attracting compliments from passers-by, and serves as a living portfolio piece for our work as Architect Anglesey.
Compstall Mills, Stockport
A landmark regeneration project delivering new homes while preserving the industrial heritage of Compstall Mills. At a Glance The Challenge: Unlocking a Complex Industrial Site Located on a challenging ‘L’ shaped plot between the River Etherow, a country park reservoir, and a busy main road, Compstall Mills represents a significant opportunity for regeneration in Stockport. The site is steeped in history but fraught with technical constraints. The brief required navigating a significant 6m level difference, managing flood risk, and addressing the structural integrity of existing industrial buildings. Crucially, previous planning approvals for this site had stalled due to a lack of commercial viability. Our objective was clear: to design a cost-effective, high-value housing development that is respectful of the local heritage, improves biodiversity, and finally delivers on the site’s potential. The Solution: A Connected Masterplan As both the lead Architects in Stockport for this scheme and a member of the development consortium, we approached the site with a focus on placemaking and feasibility. Our concept creates a cohesive community by blending mill conversion apartments with new-build homes, centered around a new public heart. 1. Scotland Homes (Roadside Frontage) To improve the streetscape along Andrew Street, we designed 12 new-build semi-detached houses. The architecture creates a bridge between the past and future, featuring a saw-tooth roof design that mirrors the original mill profiles while optimizing south-facing orientation for solar PVs. 2. Noah House Navigating the site’s challenging topography, this building sits against a 6m retaining wall. It features new apartments. 3. Victoria Mill & Albert House Victoria Mill is the historic centrepiece of the site. We are retaining this asset, converting it into apartments. Adjacent to this, the new-build “Albert House” provides additional apartments and facilities. 4. The Heritage Garden Between the residential zones lies the Heritage Garden. Centered around the site’s original water wheel, this public realm improves connections across the site and celebrates the area’s industrial history. 5. Riverside Living Parallel to the River Etherow, we have proposed new-build homes. These new properties are designed with a sophisticated, simple aesthetic that respects the scale and architectural structure of Victoria Mill, offering families south-facing living spaces and off-road parking. The Result By balancing retention with strategic demolition, we have created a viable scheme that delivers new homes and improved public access. The project has received unanimous support and excitement from the shareholder consortium. The site has successfully been allocated in the Council’s local plan, with positive initial feedback from the council and consultants regarding our approach to conservation and design quality. We are currently engaged in pre-app conversations and the design is subject to change.No enquiries yet please for the purchase of individual properties.
Seafront Holiday Home, Rhosneigr, Anglesey
This new-build family holiday home sits in the stunning coastal town of Rhosneigr, Anglesey. Designed as a modern retreat by the sea, the home replaces an outdated property while retaining part of the original footprint to respect neighbouring sea views. Design Approach Buju Architects crafted a contemporary, energy-efficient home that embraces the surrounding landscape. Several design options were explored using 3D BIM modelling to refine the layout, optimise the sea views, and ensure the home blended seamlessly into its setting. A steep roof pitch maximises internal volume, while golden-section ratios help create a balanced and elegant façade. Sustainability was a key focus, with high-quality materials chosen for durability and energy efficiency. The design also prioritises indoor-outdoor living, allowing the family to enjoy the breath-taking coastal scenery in comfort and style. Working with the Local Context A measured building and site survey provided an accurate site plan, topographical model, and massing study to understand the relationship between the home and its surroundings. Neighbourhood consultations were carried out to ensure the design maintained key sightlines to the sea, balancing the needs of both the client and the community. The result? A beautiful, light-filled home that captures the essence of coastal living. As the client put it: Get in touch If you’re considering a coastal home or a bespoke new-build project, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Get in touch to arrange a feasibility consultation and explore the possibilities.
Bay View, Beaumaris
A Visionary Home Design Perched on a vacant, sloping site overlooking the picturesque coast of Beaumaris, Anglesey, Bay View stands as an exemplary home design that seamlessly blends aesthetic appeal with sustainability. Nestled cleverly into the sloping landscape, this new-build home represents a testament to innovative architecture and thoughtful integration with its natural surroundings. Meeting Challenges with Creative Solutions The main challenge of the project was to meet the client’s brief while ensuring the design harmonised with the neighbouring buildings. Through on-site discussions, we developed a concept where the lower ground floor was integrated into the landscape, with a main entrance at the middle level. A double-gable design with steeply pitched roofs kept the eaves low and responded sensitively to the context. Maximising Views and Functionality The main concept of the house revolves around maximising views of the bay with expansive glass and a large balcony on the front façade. The top floor hosts spacious open-plan living areas that seamlessly connect with the outdoor balcony. Despite the lower-ground floor being predominantly below ground, it accommodates a vehicular entrance, garage, utility space, plant room, media room and gym, ensuring both functionality and comfort. Sustainability at the Forefront Sustainability is integral to the design, with careful consideration given to insulation, air-tightness and the implementation of a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) system. Natural materials ground the building on site, fostering a connection with the surrounding landscape and forest. The rear of the house maintains a simple, fuss-free aesthetic, enhancing its integration with nature. Project Progression and Future Endeavours Buju Architects have completed RIBA Stages 1-3 of the design process and eagerly anticipate securing planning approval to progress to the technical design stage (RIBA Stage 4). Our collaborative approach involves coordinating with consultants, including landscape architects and structural engineers, to ensure comprehensive planning documentation. With the design approved, we are committed to advancing the project through its stages and welcome enquiries for future projects.
Larkhill, Marple Bridge
A Modern New-Build within Green Belt Nestled within the Green Belt in Marple Bridge, Stockport, Larkhill stands as an exemplary home of modern architecture, tailored to the client’s brief and site constraints. This replacement home and leisure building epitomises innovative design and meticulous planning, achieving full planning approval within a rural landscape of stunning beauty. Capturing Countryside Views Situated on a sloping site, Larkhill offers panoramic views of the picturesque surrounding countryside. A key feature of the home is its upstairs living space, complete with a large south-facing balcony, offering residents a wonderful connection to the natural landscape. Navigating Planning Restrictions The project faced significant planning restrictions within the Green Belt, expertly navigated through a comprehensive planning strategy developed in collaboration with a planning consultant. Multiple applications of Permitted Development were supported before completing a design and Full Planning Application for the new-build replacement dwelling. The architectural design, characterised by its modern and dramatic aesthetic, received unanimous approval at the local planning committee meeting, thanks to its high-quality design and adherence to volume restrictions. Sustainable Design and Integration Principles of Passive House Design are seamlessly integrated into the architecture, with a focus on simplicity, energy efficiency and natural ventilation. The leisure building, cutting into the topography with retaining walls, features a single-story design with a green roof, blending harmoniously with the landscape. Natural materials are utilised throughout, grounding the building in its surroundings. Luxurious Amenities and Functional Spaces The leisure building encompasses a 4-car garage, gym and swimming pool. In the house, the upstairs boasts a feature atrium with a spiral staircase, a home cinema room and ample living areas oriented towards the south for optimal sunlight and views. Project Progression and Future Endeavours The design process began with on-site discussions to refine the brief and develop initial strategies. Concept designs were refined and approved, leading to planning submission and the progression to Technical Design (RIBA Stage 4). Buju Architects eagerly anticipates advancing the project on-site, with the Local Planning Committee expressing anticipation for its completion as an architectural landmark in the area. Your Dream Home Awaits If you’re ready to turn your dream home into a reality, contact Buju Architects today. We’re committed to delivering innovative and bespoke architectural solutions tailored to your requirements.
Coed Mor, Llanfaelog
Creating Sustainable Homes The Coed Mor project marks the re-development of a garden plot into four new-build detached homes, comprising two 3-bedroom and two 4-bedroom residences. Nestled in Llanfaelog on Anglesey, along the road into Rhosneigr, these open-market homes offer modern living in a sought-after location. Strategic Importance This project holds strategic importance for Buju Architects as we seek a financial and development partner to collaborate on a joint venture. With Outline Planning Approval secured, we are poised to progress towards Full Planning Approval, focusing on sustainable architecture principles to minimise embodied carbon, running costs and maintenance requirements. Director Andy Wilde’s recent qualification as a Passive House Designer underscores our commitment to making this development an exemplary scheme for North Wales and our architectural portfolio. Overcoming Challenges with Expertise Navigating challenges such as the existing trees, vehicular requirements and biodiversity considerations required a collaborative approach. Accurate measured surveys and specialist advice from consultants ensured informed decision-making and effective solutions, enhancing project feasibility and sustainability. Concept and Design Approach The concept for Coed Mor is to utilise an underused piece of land with good access, to provide much-needed homes, contributing to the local council’s housing targets. Our design ethos balances respect for the area’s character with progressive style and performance standards. South-facing gardens, off-road parking and detached layouts reflect our commitment to creating desirable and functional living spaces. Client Satisfaction and Future Endeavours With Outline Planning Approval secured, our client is delighted and we eagerly anticipate delivering similar schemes across the UK. Buju Architects welcomes enquiries from potential partners and clients interested in sustainable and innovative architectural solutions.
Tyn Y Ffynnon, Anglesey
We are really pleased to get planning approval on this rural property in Anglesey, North Wales. Thank you to Anglesey planning department for the swift processing! We are currently progressing the technical design and look forward to starting on site soon! Our Client purchased this small property and is transforming it to a great home with 3 bedrooms and a large open-plan living area. On this project we carried out a measured building survey and created a 3D model of the existing building before progressing the concept design, planning drawings and CGI Images. Please get in touch to discuss architectural services for your project!
Marine Square, Anglesey
We are excited to have received planning approval for this new-build coastal home in Holyhead, North Wales. We were invited to develop a design for a newbuild home on a narrow site at the back of the clients’ property. Since the early stages, it became clear the project would benefit from pre-application discussions with the local council due to the constrained and complex nature of the site. At Buju Architects we understand the importance of following pre-app advice to create informed and considered designs, which will have significantly greater chances of planning approval. In this particular project, this feedback was incredibly valuable and allowed us to fully identify any constraints of the site, such as proximity and overlooking concerns. As architects, it is often that once the restrictions of a project are appreciated, we can fully visualise its potential. Since our initial discussions with the clients, their key aspiration was to maximise both living spaces and usable garden space. It was clear from our pre app feedback that the first-floor footprint would need to be reduced to mitigate proximity concerns. Through some careful spatial reasoning, we could actually fit two well-sized bedrooms adding value to the property. This ‘staggered’ form, with the smaller first floor, led us to develop a dynamic sculptural form with two mono-pitch roofs visible from the rear. The identified constraints also governed the positions of windows which are primarily to the front and back of the property. At the back, we have left a clear distance to neighbouring property boundaries to ensure their amenity and privacy. Working with a relatively small footprint, we looked to maximise all available internal space and importantly to take advantage of opportunities for built-in storage. The spaces are designed for quality so that all rooms are naturally-lit and ventilated with large bi-fold doors to the patio from the open plan living area. The building is also to be thermally efficient and well-insulated, with integrated low-carbon strategies. At Buju Architects we understand the importance of natural lighting, thermal comfort and ventilation for the health and wellbeing of residents, as well as for a sustainable future. Although the front of the property features a section of full height glazing, we looked to integrate conservative elements here, such as smaller windows, to promote the local character of the street. The street is predominantly ‘two-up two-down’ mid-century homes of white and grey render, which of course has informed our own two-tone palette. As a narrow blueprint and at only two storeys, the scale of the new-build is also very much in keeping with the street front. We really enjoy creating innovative and bespoke designs for our clients and look forward to making this home a reality. We’d be happy to help if you would like to discuss your own project! Download Case Study – Marine Square Holyhead
Millbrook, Rhosneigr
We are excited to have recently received planning approval for the extension of this large coastal family home in Rhosneigr, North Wales. The proposed extension will add two bays and a first floor to a bungalow, with the vision to create improved bright living spaces for the clients on the upper floor, which would also benefit from the beautiful downhill views of the seaside location. The external appearance of the proposal is in-keeping with the white and light grey rendered walls and slate roofs of its residential context. With white render to the entire home exterior, we have also retained a characteristic dark grey border that extends around the walls of the new bays. The light grey colour of elements such as window frames, aluminium facings and roof fascias maintains a light coastal aesthetic. The new scale and height has also been designed in careful proportion with neighbouring houses. The two bay extensions define the front and rear entrances for the property. The front faces the downhill street, with a large amount of glazing providing expansive views. The rear bay faces the frontages of homes behind so is more sensitive to minimise any sense of overlooking neighbours. At ground floor, we replaced the living spaces with an additional well-sized double bedroom with patio access, as well as a large media room. In this coastal location, we are making use of the back entrance by providing utility and wet rooms to leave damp and sandy clothes. Through the main front door, you enter into a bright double-height space, with a staircase leading straight to the main living spaces on the upper floor. The void over the hallway lends a sense of arrival and entering at lower level, it always felt important for these spaces to be connected. At first floor, the spacious open plan living includes a modern kitchen, a dining area and a large lounge area around the corner. A high-level window has been designed to provide a direct coastal view without overlooking neighbours, and there is also access to an external balcony on the front of the house. As well as a separate bathroom and study, there is a large master suite, with its own walk-in wardrobe and doors opening onto the front balcony. We really enjoy creating innovative and bespoke designs for our clients and look forward to making this home a reality. We’d be happy to help if you would like to discuss your own project! Download Case Study – Millbrook, Rhosneigr