A former workshop, this contemporary three-bedroom house in Hythe is a 10-minute drive from the beach. Sleek and contemporary materials have been used inside and out, including blackened Estonian timber, steel and polished concrete. A soaring, skylight-studded pitch crowns the open-plan living spaces, which in turn give way to a masterfully incorporated central courtyard. Although a wonderful market town in its own right, Hythe is also exceptionally well-connected to the rest of the Kentish coast and for travel into London.

The Tour

Tucked within a recessed storm porch, the inconspicuous black-painted door opens to a generous hall space. Smooth, polished concrete flooring begins here and spreads across the ground floor.

The open-plan living area unfolds straight ahead, arranged with areas for relaxing, cooking and dining. Here, an impressive and lofty ceiling draws the eye towards the pitched roofline and to a quartet of Velux skylights. A wood burner with a dramatic stainless steel flue is positioned in one corner, with soft seating currently orientated towards it. The dining space lies beyond, though the room's versatility would suit a variety of configurations.

Formed of two banks of black cabinetry, the kitchen lies behind. Formica worktops provide plenty of preparation space, while hanging racks add easy-access storage for pots and pans. A stainless steel six-ring hob has been integrated, and there is a deep sink below a window that draws in plenty of natural light. The ground-floor plan is completed by a study and a bathroom with a walk-in shower.

Wide timber floorboards spread throughout the first floor, which is reached via a staircase that wraps around the mezzanine above the living spaces. Ply-framed square glazing ushers in even more light to the space, which has an additional seating area. An external canary yellow steel walkway leads across the courtyard to the bedrooms, though the primary point of access is the staircase in the entrance hallway.

The main bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe and an en suite shower room with polished nickel fittings. Light pours into the two additional bedrooms through Velux skylights. Both are served by a family bathroom with a double sink, generous bath and walk-in shower.

There is a garage at the front of the plan with direct access into the house, as well as a utility room, WC and internal bike storage.

Outdoor Space

Visible through large panes of internal glazing, the courtyard garden is a fundamental part of the house's design. A sliding door grants access to the space; during the warmer months, this can be left open to extend the living space outside.