Located on the wild Atlantic coastline of Eleuthera and perched on a cliff overlooking a private beach, this hideaway cabin in the Bahama's is designed for owners Mark and Kate Ingraham. The Thatch House is both an eco-resort and surf camp. Inspired by the experimental Hatch House (Jack Hall, 1960) on Cape Cod’s Natural Sea Shore, the project is a combination of volumes and outdoor decks that dissolve within the landscape.
Raised a few feet off the ground, the building is constructed of western red cedar and thatch, with a tongue and groove cedar paneled interior. A beautiful long porch is connecting the two spaces. It runs along the south side of the building and a central, covered outdoor sitting area. This small court acts as the formal entry into both spaces and also allows one to enjoy the weather while still being protected from the wind and spray coming off the ocean. For a more dramatic outdoor experience, a feature stair was designed to lead up to a roof terrace offering unobstructed 360 degree views.
Operable flaps and shutters are used along the porch and in front of all the window openings. Designed for multiple uses, the shutters provide shade and control breezes while also adding security while the retreat is unoccupied.
Pictures by by Pippa Drummond
