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The Lookout Tower

East Devon

Project Details

Sited in AONB

Practice

hmad | architects

The Nook, Simmonds Place , Kingsmill Industrial Estate , Saunders Way , Cullompton , Devon , EX15 1BS , United Kingdom

The Old Lookout Tower is a local landmark occupying a stunning and prominent location in an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) next to the World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast on Hooken Cliffs to the southwest of Beer in Devon. The Tower is identified in the Devon Historic Environment Records. There is reference to the site once being the home of an Admiralty flag signal station during the Napoleonic wars (Monument record number MDV11097). It is believed that the Tower was built around the late 19th Century with historic maps showing the presence of a building on this site since 1889. Working closely with the owners, hmad|architects' design is in keeping with the location and is sensitive to the historic significance of the original building. The basic form of the tower structure has been retained to keep the character of the property, whilst the visual appearance has been improved by refurbishment works completed in Spring 2022. The improvements have made the building fit for the needs of 21st Century living and for generations of guests to come. Key design features include: construction of a replacement single storey extension and roof terrace to provide a vantage point which celebrates the extraordinary setting and views; a three storey lift in the tower; accessible spaces and a new second floor created by enclosing the existing parapet with a glazed lantern which takes advantage of spectacular panoramic views. Sustainability features include: retention of the existing building fabric where possible; PV generated electricity; an air source heat pump and enhanced thermal insulation. Biodiversity features include: bee bricks; swallow cups and coastal meadow planting. Image credits: Richard Downer Photography.