Premier Construction

La Serena

La Serena
Written by Roma Publications

La Serena

La Serena is a multi-award-winning residential project from David James Architects & Partners Ltd. Nestled amongst the trees in Canford Cliffs, Poole, the spectacular house was completed in 2017.

Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, La Serena boasts fantastic views over the Championship Parkstone Golf. The original house was a 1970’s split-level house, with a very tight driveway and accommodation over 2 floors, the architecture was unremarkable with a layout that did not explore the setting or the views on offer.

The concept for the remodelling was to create a property that embraced the setting whilst floating above the landscape. The architectural language needed to be crisp and clean, with a layout that flowed for modern living. The client’s brief also included provisions for versatility, so La Serena could possibly operate as a party house, a family home or an ideal retirement home.

Premier Construction previously spoke to David James about the project in June 2017, as work was progressing towards a conclusion. He said:

“Having the freedom of design, allows me to make bold choices and elevate the design to the highest level.   The site itself provided challenges to the design process.  Varying topography combined with a significant number of important trees led to a design that explored a mixture of floor levels, views and settings to maximize the usability of the site, whilst enriching the occupant’s lifestyle.

“At DJA we always pride ourselves on our attention to detail, and create bespoke design solutions to each individual site.  La Serena is no exception, with our interior designers being fully involved with the project, creating a dwelling finished to the highest standards.”

Due to the sloping nature of the site, on arrival the house appears to be a two-storey dwelling. The natural fall in the topography allows the design to cascade down the slope and evolve into a three-storey dwelling.

The final design integrates these three levels. On arrival a large entrance hall spills into the formal lounge and study, which overlook the double volume space. Two separate staircases lead either to the top floor master suite and bedrooms or down into the double volume living space and kitchen. The house revolves around this magnificent double volume living space, which has a two-storey wall of glass facing the garden and golf course.

The house has been finished to the highest standards, creating a luxurious, private retreat with bespoke interior architecture and state-of-the-art intelligent home technology and climate control.

Externally, whilst being a contemporary design, the external finishes of basalt stone, Grespania wood effect ceramic cladding and charcoal grey metal complement the natural, sylvan setting. A landscaped garden has been created, offering fantastic views of the golf course yet simultaneously providing a degree of seclusion.

Work was carried out on site by main contractor Procter Services.

Since its completion, La Serena has been awarded numerous industry accolades. Recently, at the International Property Awards 2018-19 La Serena won the award of ‘Best Architecture Single Residence UK’, having also won the award of ‘Best Architecture Residence South West England’ at the UK Property Awards.

La Serena was shortlisted at the 2018 International Design & Architecture Awards and was Highly Commended as Single United Development of the Year, for developers Belhaven Homes, at the Premier Guarantee Awards 2017.

La Serena epitomises modern, luxury living in a stunning, unique setting.

David James Architects & Partners Ltd

Established in 2009, David James Architects & Partners Ltd is a Dorset-based design led architectural practice. Providing bespoke designs solutions for a range of clients, the practice has won numerous awards since its inception.

Under the direction of Managing Director David James and partner Director Laurie Marlow, the firm has completed private houses, commercial developments, large apartment blocks, retirement developments, conversions and refurbishments. The designs created by David and co. range from contemporary to traditional.

To find out more, please visit www.davidjamesarchitects.co.uk.

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Roma Publications