Seahorses is a stunning new home near Falmouth enjoying magnificent panoramic views of the south coast seascape. Sitting on the clifftops within an AONB, the house and gardens occupy a gently sloping site that connects with the adjacent South West Coastal Path. The context and terrain of the surrounding landscape informed the design and an imaginative and ambitious solution to site levels was crucial to the success of the scheme. As a result, the completed house is lower than the original, thus creating privacy for the occupants whilst still respecting neighbouring homes. The split-level, linear design is carefully organised around a spine wall of local granite that runs from the exterior of the building through the interior. This arrangement allows the living areas and bedrooms to connect with the landscape and integrate seamlessly with outdoor spaces. A mix of grasses, sedum and indigenous coastal plants on the green roof help to embed the building into its surroundings. The palette of natural materials creates a layered, permeable effect on the exterior, which will season with time and weather, thereby allowing it to assimilate into its coastal setting. Of equal importance was landscaping, which was integral to the design intent. With thoughtful positioning of the new dwelling, significant areas of mature and established planting were protected and retained. Photograph: Elliott White Photography