Castle High by Hyde + Hyde: Modern Farmhouse in Pembrokeshire National Park

Castle High, designed by Hyde + Hyde Architects and completed in 2021, is a contemporary farmhouse nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire National Park in the United Kingdom. This extraordinary coastal home spans 490 square meters and was a decade-long self-build project by its owner, embodying dedication, persistence, and a deep connection to the land.

The house replaces a 1950s farmhouse that lacked the charm and functionality of the site’s original working farmhouse. The new design reinvigorates the property with a modern architectural language that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape while respecting the area’s historical and cultural context.

A Vision Rooted in Heritage and Context

The site is deeply embedded in farming history, and the owners, part of an old farming family, were determined to stay connected to their heritage. The previous 1950s structure failed to provide the thermal efficiency and resilience needed to withstand the harsh coastal climate, leaving the courtyard vulnerable to prevailing winds and storms.

Hyde + Hyde Architects envisioned a design that would restore the essence of the site’s original courtyard layout. The new farmhouse completes the horseshoe-shaped arrangement of the existing outbuildings, sheltering the courtyard while creating an intimate yet open space. The design reflects the values of the National Park, emphasizing contextual sensitivity, sustainability, and harmony with the landscape.

Architectural Design and Spatial Layout

Ground Floor: Transparency and Connection

The ground floor of Castle High features an expansive open-plan living area. Curtain wall glazing provides uninterrupted views of the restored courtyard and the sea beyond. This transparency enhances the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape.

First Floor: Privacy and Perspective

On the first floor, a corridor overlooking the courtyard links the family’s private spaces. The children’s bedrooms occupy a faceted façade with windows angled to capture specific views of the coastline, while the master bedroom is positioned to the west, offering commanding vistas of the Irish Sea.

An adjacent repurposed outbuilding complements the main residence, maintaining a traditional, cellular arrangement. This space accommodates guest rooms, a games room, and a study, blending modern functionality with historical elements.

Material Palette and Sustainability

Castle High responds to the exposed coastal environment with a carefully selected palette of robust, low-maintenance materials. The new wing is constructed from white, fair-faced concrete inspired by the weathered pebbles of the nearby shoreline. This material choice combines sculptural solidity with the transparency of generous glazing, creating a visual dialogue between the modern wing and the traditional outbuildings.

To ensure durability and sustainability, the project incorporates black recyclable titanium-coated Anthrazinc roofing and a Corten rain-screen. These materials echo the agricultural typologies of the region, reinforcing the farmhouse's connection to its surroundings while requiring minimal upkeep over time.

A Labor of Love

Castle High stands as a testament to the owner’s dedication and the collaborative vision of Hyde + Hyde Architects. The decade-long process of self-building allowed the family to engage deeply with every aspect of the design, ensuring the home reflects their values and aspirations.

This contemporary farmhouse honors its heritage while embracing modern design principles, showcasing how architecture can evolve without losing its roots. The project exemplifies resilience, sustainability, and the transformative power of thoughtful design.

Castle High by Hyde + Hyde Architects redefines the concept of a modern farmhouse. Nestled in Pembrokeshire National Park, it seamlessly merges historical significance with contemporary aesthetics and sustainability. The home is a perfect embodiment of its environment, offering a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation.

All Photographs are work of Martin Gardner