Prennek House: an eco build by the sea

A case study

Joining our portfolio in 2019, Prennek House has set the standard for sustainable luxury, seamlessly combining energy-efficient design with contemporary interiors and breath-taking ocean vistas. The owners approached the build with a deep commitment to reducing their carbon footprint, creating a home that not only blends harmoniously into its hillside setting but is also designed to stand the test of time for generations to come. It has since received national coverage from magazines such as Grand Designs and Coast - a testament to its eye-catching design and good eco credentials.

Here, we share the story of Prennek House’s transformation - from a modest bungalow to an environmentally conscious luxury holiday let.
 

A look back in time

Before becoming the modern haven it is today, Prennek House had a long and varied past. Built in the 1930s and originally known as Atlantic View, it first served as the Atlantic View Hotel, a 15-bedroom retreat welcoming visitors to Mawgan Porth between May and September. It later evolved into Atlantic View Holiday Flats, a favourite among surfers drawn to its proximity to Cornwall’s Seven Bays.

By the time the current owners exchanged contracts in May 2017, the original bungalow was nearing the end of its lifespan, with structural challenges, including a subsiding front extension. Seeing an opportunity to breathe new life into the property, the owners embarked on a two-year journey to create a modern home with as little impact on the environment as possible. 
 

Starting afresh

Knowing their project would require a full demolition and rebuild, the owners sought out Cornish architects and craftspeople to bring their vision to life. Here’s how they describe the process in their own words…

“We worked with an amazing firm of young architects based in Truro called Kast, to design a contemporary yet sustainable house. The brief was to create something as environmentally friendly as possible, using local materials wherever we could, while maximising the coastal and countryside views.

The upper floor was set back to reduce the perceived mass of the building and to create a west-facing roof terrace. We opted for a highly insulated timber frame, ensuring an airtight construction to minimise heat loss. The exterior would feature locally sourced larch, complemented by aluminium-clad timber triple-glazed windows, while the roof would house photovoltaic solar panels and a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery system.

We submitted a Town Planning Application in September 2017 and received approval the following month. By November, we had completed the house purchase, and demolition began in December.”
 

Building for the future

With Kast Architects leading the design, every element was carefully chosen for efficiency and longevity. In addition to the above, it was also vital that the home was built with a south-facing orientation to maximise solar gain and natural warmth. Used to power the home and the A++ rated appliances throughout, the solar panels also provide efficient, low-temperature underfloor heating, which keeps energy consumption to a minimum. 

Outside, the owners opted for a gravel garden to minimise water usage and purposefully designed the upper level to make room for a west-facing roof terrace accessed via the main bedroom. It also features an electric car charger, joining 60% of our properties that now offer this facility.
 

Eco-design meets guest comfort

Beyond its environmentally-conscious build, Prennek House embraces sustainable luxury for guests. The owners prioritised sourcing local materials and artwork, ensuring the home reflects the South West’s rich heritage while also minimising the carbon footprint of each design piece. The artwork, embroidered lampshades, and textiles are the work of Kate Tarling, Fiona Willis, and Merlyn Chesterman, while the cosy blankets and rugs in the living area have been crafted from recycled plastic bottles.

Environmental choices have also been woven into the guest experience. Thoughtful changes to the weekly changeovers include a complimentary welcome hamper from a nearby farm, filled with fresh bread, eggs, milk, and fruit juice. Not only does this reduce food mileage and support local businesses, but guests love knowing that their breakfast essentials have been delivered from just around the corner - a small touch that makes a big impact.

Additionally, all the toiletries have been carefully selected for their zero-waste packaging and carbon-neutral shipping, ensuring that every detail aligns with the owners’ commitment to sustainability.
 

The vision is brought to life 

Over the past six years, Prennek House has welcomed hundreds of guests, each drawn to its proximity to the beach, innovative design, and stunning sea views. Its legacy as a sustainable sanctuary continues to grow, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly holiday homes.

Open for bookings year-round, we love seeing guests experience Prennek House, Mawgan Porth and the surrounding villages in every season, from summer escapes to cosy winter retreats. Our Concierge team are passionate about connecting guests with the fantastic local community – from independent cafés and farm shops to surf schools and beach hire spots. By showcasing these businesses and experiences, our aim is to help local economies thrive throughout the year.

Sleeping eight guests and welcoming dogs, take a closer look around Prennek House. 
 

Thinking of joining our portfolio?

Our friendly Portfolio team are here to guide you through the process, offering expert advice on preparing your home for the luxury rental market. Whether you’ve just purchased, are mid-renovation, or are planning your next investment, we’re happy to help. You can read more owner testimonials here or reach out to our team on owners@perfectstays.co.uk and 01208 895 750.

Image credits: The original photography and clippings have been shared with us by the property owners. | All other imagery is our own.