A Grand Seafront Home in Whitstable
Originally built in the early 1900s by a shipping magnate, this seven-bedroom house in Whitstable, Kent, carries the presence of a grand Victorian residence. In 2019, Meme Architects completed a full-scale renovation, redesigning the interiors to embrace open, free-flowing spaces while adding a ground-floor extension and a new garage with an annexe. The result is a seamless balance between heritage and modern living, set just a short walk from Whitstable’s vibrant harbour and within easy reach of London.
Outdoor Space and Gardens
The home’s exterior is as inviting as its interior. A private courtyard sits behind automated gates, offering secure parking for multiple cars. To the rear, landscaped gardens unfold in carefully considered zones, planted with New Zealand tree ferns, evergreen shrubs, and structured hedging for privacy. A south-facing terrace with a pergola provides the perfect setting for outdoor dining, while a manicured lawn and a tranquil zen garden—complete with vegetable and herb beds—encourage moments of calm retreat.
Architectural Presence
The mock-Tudor façade has been carefully refreshed with a blend of contemporary and traditional materials. Grey-green render complements dark timber beams, bronze window frames, and a continuous base of charred timber cladding that visually ties the main house with the extension. Mature trees at the front frame the property and create a sense of privacy as visitors approach via the gated drive.
Striking Entrance and Interior Design
A glass pivot door leads into a dramatic triple-height entrance hall, washed in deep Thunderbolt green. Bespoke seating, bold geometric tiles, and period details such as archways and a stone fire surround combine with modern interventions like new glazing and sliding pocket doors to establish a refined, adaptable interior.
The Heart of the Home
At the core of the house, the kitchen and dining space extends across the depth of the plan. Custom cabinetry conceals appliances behind fold-back doors, while Corian work surfaces and a smoked mirrored splashback add sleek sophistication. State-of-the-art fittings include a Teppanyaki hot plate, steam oven, Sub-Zero fridge/freezer, and twin dishwashers—making the space both highly functional and elegant.
