sark island home replacement house | channel islands

this replacement home on the island of sark presented one of the most unique and demanding design challenges we have encountered. sark is a remote island with no cars, only tractors and narrow tracks, which means every element of the build must be transported, lifted, and assembled by hand. the project required a highly strategic architectural approach that balanced logistics, budget, and a sensitive coastal setting. our approach reflects the technical adaptability described on our services page, where project constraints become opportunities for innovative design.

island-specific constraints

the scheme needed to:

+ be delivered within a strict budget of £250,000

+ remain within the footprint of an existing concrete slab

+ comply with the ridge height of the original building

+ be transported entirely in stick form to the site due to access restrictions

these conditions shaped every design decision. material sizes, structural spans, glazing dimensions, and rooflight configurations all had to be planned around what could realistically fit on the back of a tractor and then be carried by hand through rugged terrain.

modular construction strategy

to meet these challenges, we developed a modular system using a light gauge steel frame, with minimal hot rolled steel sections to simplify transport and assembly. glazing was kept to modest panel sizes, allowing for safe movement along the island’s narrow routes. rooflights were carefully selected to ensure they could be lifted into place without machinery.

despite the constraints, the design aims to celebrate the island’s extraordinary coastal landscape. windows have been positioned to capture panoramic views and create framed snapshots of changing light and weather conditions.

a unique and ongoing project

this is a rare site in a remarkable location. as construction progresses, we look forward to sharing updates that illustrate how modular design can enable contemporary living in remote environments.