The remote, wild and exposed Silecroft site is the setting for the renovation of a dilapidated farmstead

'Permaculture retreat and residence on the wild West Cumbrian coast.'

The remote, wild and exposed Silecroft site is the setting for the renovation of a dilapidated farmstead to create a self-sustaining home that celebrates the unique landscape, ecosystem and the personal philosophies of its owners. A regenerative masterplan bringing together principles of permaculture, ecology and off-grid living will, in time, establish a unique ecosystem that is shaped and nurtured by its environment and the elements. As a “whole-system” the site will draw upon vernacular design and traditional methodologies, including natural farming and regenerative ecological principles, to create an example for future rural developments. The fields, pastures and buildings will evolve and grow in continual relation to the site over the course of days, months, seasons and years. By weaving ecology, off-grid sustainable technologies, responsive landscape design, growth permaculture & food together with rigorous research and a hyper-localised, environmentally-responsive design process, we aim to develop a project that speaks to the truly progressive and nurturing ambitions of its owners.

The farmstead will be self-sustaining, with different produce grown on site according to the changing seasons and soil conditions.

The development of the site aims for balance, seeking to support life which happens within and alongside nature rather than constraining, defending or shielding the farmstead from the extreme variability of the coastal climate.

Drawing upon vernacular design and traditional methodologies, the farmstead will demonstrate the union of modern and traditional approaches in a “whole system” project.
The fields, pastures and buildings will evolve and grow in continual relation to the site
Retrofit & refurbishment
Cumbria
2021
Collaborators: AIBM ecology
Photography: IDK