The Old Radar Station, Reconstructed
This striking Grade II-listed former radar station was the subject of a complete architectural reconstruction and renovation in 2016, resulting in a superb contemporary four-bedroom house near Ventnor on the Isle of Wight. Heralded by Winston Churchill as critical to winning the second world war, the building's historical context and utilitarian vernacular has been celebrated throughout, retaining exposed materials while adding a decidedly contemporary edge. Its elevated position provides 360-degree views of the horizon and there is a perfectly orientated rear terrace. Surrounded by National Trust land, the house sits under a Designated Dark Sky Area ensuring the preservation of crystal-clear stargazing.
Originally constructed between 1938-39 as one of 20 Chain Home early warning radar stations set along the coastline, the house forms part of the national defence system in the Second World War. Its unique position enabled the successful interception of enemy aircraft during the Battle of Britain, playing an integral role in the D-Day landings. The building suffered two Luftwaffe attacks in 1940 and was decommissioned by the RAF in 1961.
Tour Of Old Radar Station
Almost out of sight on the approach, the house is accessed via a single-track road which winds through a ridge of National Trust land up to a uniquely secluded yet wonderfully elevated position above the coastal town of Ventnor. A generous provision of parking space has been designated outside the house, with the entrance tucked discreetly into the lower level, accessed via an external staircase.
Inside, the hallway on the lower level is well-equipped with cloakroom storage, leading to an impressive staircase of solid timber and raw concrete; materials remain exposed in a nod to the building’s history and bomb damage.
An inverted approach to the layout optimises the astonishing far-reaching views across the horizon. A series of full-height windows allows for an excellent quality of natural light in the generous open-plan living spaces, which unfold laterally across the first floor. This part of the house has been designed with optimal flexibility in layout, with the living area currently set to one side, the dining area positioned opposite, and everything orientated towards the mesmirising views. Polished concrete and underfloor heating run underfoot, while velvet curtains add a softness to the utilitarian material palette.
In the kitchen, appliances are neatly housed in the clean lines of stainless-steel cabinetry. Cast-concrete worktops reference the building's original architectural foundations and a free-standing glass-topped workstation is set centrally. Ribbons of glazing bring light to the cooking areas and frame views across the roof terrace.
On the lower floor, four large bedrooms run off an arterial corridor, where 18 inches of solid brickwork contribute to the calming, near-silent atmosphere. The original room names remain on each of the doors downstairs and 1930s white brickwork line sections of the walls.
The main bedroom on the far southerly side is a peaceful room with an en suite shower room set to one side. Strategically placed windows have been positioned to capture the changing light that slithers dramatically down the side of the external walls.
Cast-concrete worktops weave through the family bathroom, which is set centrally and is complete with a bathtub. The additional three double bedrooms follow a pleasingly consistent style, each with an excellent provision of closet space and a quiet, restful atmosphere. A third bathroom lies on the far northerly end.
Old Radar Station Garden
Perched on an extensive four-acre plot and surrounded by Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) conservation land, the house is set into an elevated, private verge. The surrounding land has been maintained with care to preserve the natural landscape and habitats, with paths cut through for walking.
A sliding glass door leads directly from the main living space to the extensive rear terrace, thought to be the highest residential point on the island. With breathtaking panoramic views, this area makes for an excellent entertaining space, with a long dining table strategically placed to capture the dramatic sight lines through the house and across to the English Channel. Leading down from the house, a sheltered area on the lower level lends naturally to a barbecue and an additional outside space for eating and relaxing.
In addition to the main house there is also an outbuilding of approximately 265 sq ft set opposite the parking area, currently used for external storage and with power connectivity. There is also rainwater harvesting system that serves the two 7500-litre tanks.
Thinking Space Architects
Thinking Space, established in 1996 by Sarah Cheeseman and Howard Carter, has evolved into a prominent architectural practice specializing in workspace design. Operating from their Southwark, London premises, the firm emphasizes innovative design principles and maintains ISO9001 accreditation, ensuring high-quality project delivery.
Howard Carter, the Director of Architecture, brings extensive experience from collaborations with renowned firms such as Sir Norman Foster and Partners, Troughton McAslan, and the Richard Rogers Partnership. His portfolio includes significant projects like the British Rail Station at Stansted Airport and the Terminal 1 extension at Heathrow. As Managing Partner of the Carter Reynolds Partnership, Carter oversaw diverse projects encompassing residential, commercial, educational, and medical buildings. His comprehensive understanding of managing medium-sized architectural practices has been instrumental in establishing a robust client portfolio for Thinking Space.
Sarah Cheeseman, the Director of Workspace, has a background in interior design with a focus on commercial environments. Her experience includes roles at Marketplace Design Partnership and Deacon Edge Interior Designers, where she worked on projects such as the refurbishment of the Football Association's Headquarters and the new headquarters for Business Systems Group. Cheeseman's expertise in workspace design led her to establish a consultancy within Business Systems Group, which later evolved into Thinking Space Limited in partnership with Carter.
The firm's portfolio reflects a commitment to progressive design and efficient project execution across various sectors. By integrating architecture and workspace design, Thinking Space Limited delivers tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of their clients, solidifying their reputation in the architectural community.
Architects: Thinking Space Architects
External Words, Source: The Modern House