Woodford Architecture and Interiors were asked to continue the development of plans for a new family home on the site of an existing property in Newton Ferrers, an attractive and unspoilt estuary village in the South Hams in Devon. A house had existed on the site since the 1950s, but the building had fallen into disrepair. We have designed a modern family home that combines chic design with the relaxed casualness of waterfront living. Our design maximises light and views from the spaces while also creating a sense of privacy and sanctuary for the owners. The living areas are stretched out along the river frontage and on the ground floor open onto a generous veranda. On the lower garden level there is an underground swimming pool recessed behind a beautiful stone-faced loggia adorned with wisteria and honeysuckle and covered by a green roof. Great care and attention has been given to the landscaping surrounding the house in order to create a constant dialogue between the building and its environment. This project demonstrates how an outstanding modern family home can be sensitively developed on a very challenging site.