PC Channel Islands

Jamie Falla Architects

Jamie Falla
Written by Roma Publications

Jamie Falla – Exceptional residential projects commended       

Jamie Falla

Demonstrating an inspired approach to architectural design, two exceptional residential projects have won Jamie Falla Architects a place on the shortlist in the Guernsey Design Awards.  The projects were carried out at two of the island’s highly distinctive residences – Horizons in Fort George and Hauts Courtils. Both were shortlisted in the Residential Renovation/Extension (over 250k) category.

Jamie Falla said:

“It is always a privilege to be included on the design awards shortlist. We always aim high in terms of design without compromising. We are delighted that we have been shortlisted with all of the other well designed projects – especially as the standard of entries seems to be getting higher every year.”

 

Horizons 

Jamie Falla

This project involved remodelling a 1970s built reverse plan house to create a light filled, energy efficient broken plan space with nooks, corners, sun decks and breathtaking panoramic views from this striking residence perched on the eastern edge of the escarpment of Fort George.   The project was designed as a response to the changing lifestyle of the occupants – a family of six.

The house works in two ways, one as a single storey bungalow for a married couple, then when their growing children or guests return, the lower ground floor bedroom wing, can be easily opened up to expand the house from a one bed single storey bungalow to a multi-generational five bedroom two storey family home.

The works, carried out by main contractor RG Falla, included removing the eastern and southern walls of the upper floor to expose the cave like space to the warmth of the morning sunrise and views over the valley and beyond towards the horizon.

Jamie Falla said:

“This element of the project was quite complex, since the removal of the walls resulted in a lack of cross bracing, so we had to cross brace the roof to provide the necessary support for the building.”

Another aspect of the project included facing all the internal walls throughout the house with Moleanos Stone in order to create visually simple, clean lines. In addition, a whole house ventilation system, an energy efficient lighting system and a zone controlled under floor heating system was installed for each room and run from an air source heat pump. These design decisions all work together to minimise the energy consumption, reduce the carbon footprint of the property and make for a more sustainable future.

“The family are really pleased with the project which they say met their expectations. They are particularly pleased with the warmth of the house and the reduction in heating bills,” added Jamie Falla.

Haut Courtils 

This contemporary style house is constructed in stepped form above an old German Bunker, with the design featuring a layered use of materials to visually break the bulk and massing into three distinct elements, which help merge the contemporary home into the surrounding landscape.

The project involved the re-modelling and extension of the house to allow Haut Courtils to rest on top of the escarpment with commanding views over the west coast and English Channel.   The scheme, which provided a new bedroom wing extension, improved energy efficiency and better connection to the property’s swimming pool through the re-location of the drive, was carried out by main contractor CBR.

Built to exceed current regulations, the original building and new additions are highly insulated and designed to reduce energy consumption. Control systems for heating and lighting allow for further reduction in energy and a whole house ventilation system ensures that heat loss is minimised.

Each of the materials used, as well as the overall form of construction, was carefully considered to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.  Local craftsmen were employed on the project wherever possible.

“The main contractors did a very good job and the clients are enjoying their new-look modern home connected to the pool, as well as enjoying their summers and parties with their children and friends – which is what the project is all about,” said Jamie Falla.

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Roma Publications