A balance of Japandi style and rustic textures make this coastal gem the perfect retreat
Japanese minimalism meets Scandinavian summerhouse in this eco-home on the Cornish coast
The property
Aptly named 'Ukiyo', a term deriving from Japanese culture meaning ‘the floating world’, this beautiful modern home does seem to float over the clifftops. The expanses of glass, concrete-clad walls and effortlessly rustic interiors almost blend this property seamlessly into the untamed, rugged coastal landscape.
Perched above Coverack Cove in South Cornwall, this eco-friendly bolthole is filled with inspiration, blending together a mix of industrial style, modern rustic and just a touch of the Japanese influence from which it finds its name. Let's take a tour...
Kitchen
Inside the property, concrete-clad walls give an industrial vibe, chosen for the material's unchanging quality, it's the perfect contrast for the ever-changing wild coastal landscape that surrounds the house.
As well as being a very design-led home, it's also an eco-friendly one, having been built from a myriad of recycled materials and an air source heat pump is used for heating and hot water.
The open plan kitchen is situated on the first floor. The bleached wooden cabinetry works perfectly with the urban, almost unfinished feel, of the concrete, but it adds a softness and a warmth too.
A small kitchen island provides an informal place to perch and socialize while cooking meals, and a more formal dining area provides more space for guests. There's a touch of Japandi style here with the clean lines and touches of dark colors mixed in with the wood and concrete
A floating staircase, that mirrors the bleached and black wood used in the kitchen, leads from the open-plan living area to two double bedrooms.
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- Be inspired by more stylish wooden kitchen ideas.
Living room
At the opposite end of the open-plan space is a cozy living room. The expansive picture window which stunning views out over the cliffs provides the perfect backdrop for the modern rustic style. Jute rugs, linen cushions, wooden pieces, and cloud-like seating make this space feel extra cozy, even the concrete walls feel welcoming.
A deep window seat runs along one wall, creating the perfect spot to curl up with a book or just watch the nature show that's guaranteed to be going on outside.
A log burner and log storage, not only creates a lovely feature but also makes this room this perfect spot for hunkering down in the colder months.
- Find more cozy living room ideas in our gallery
Master bedroom
On the second floor are two double bedrooms. The master bedroom has the same amazing sea view as the living space below, with a picture window to create that seamless feeling between outside and in.
There's a lovely soft, rustic feel to the style, contrasting the concrete walls. Much like the living room, there are lots of textures with rugs, blankets, cushions and even the ash-clad bath that sits at the foot of the bed adds to the layers.
Sculptural pieces of furniture sit amongst all those soft textures, giving the room some structure, as well as mixing in some minimalist Japanese style.
The master bathroom sits behind a screen of glass and bleached wood, so even from the walk-in shower, you don't miss out on the sea views.
The raw, rustic textures are even found in the bathroom with the reclaimed wooden vanity.
An altrock open-plan shower room made from recycled natural stone continues with the very natural feel of the room, as well as adding a touch of luxury.
Guest bedroom
The guest bedroom looks out through palm trees to the garden. And despite the small window, it's still a beautiful light-filled space. The interiors are more minimalist in here, keeping the space free of visual clutter but the cushions and blanket add that touch of rustic texture that can be found through the rest of the home.
In the white tiled ensuite bathroom is a walk in shower.
Garden
The beautiful sloping garden has everything for the perfect evening alfresco, no matter what the time of year. The outdoor living room is complete with a cozy corner sofa and a firepit. And raised above the patio looking out over the sea is a timber cedar spa hot tub.
Like what you see? Ukiyo is available to rent through Unique Home Stays.
Hebe is the Digital Editor of Livingetc; she has a background in lifestyle and interior journalism and a passion for renovating small spaces. You'll usually find her attempting DIY, whether it's spray painting her whole kitchen, don't try that at home, or ever changing the wallpaper in her hallway. Livingetc has been such a huge inspiration and has influenced Hebe's style since she moved into her first rental and finally had a small amount of control over the decor and now loves being able to help others make decisions when decorating their own homes. Last year she moved from renting to owning her first teeny tiny Edwardian flat in London with her whippet Willow (who yes she chose to match her interiors...) and is already on the lookout for her next project.
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