Designing a coastal forever home in Seaburn
Architectural Design Insights | Alistair Crerar
Discover how Acre Design transformed a Seaburn property into a stunning coastal home with sea views, modern extensions, and lifestyle-led design.
Our clients in Seaburn, Sunderland, recently acquired a tired semi-detached house that hadn’t been updated for decades. Despite its condition, the property offered something truly rare — a front elevation that looks directly out to the North Sea. With this comes both opportunity and challenge: an unrivalled view paired with the need to protect against the elements.
They came to Acre Design with a clear wish list of lifestyle spaces — an open-plan kitchen and dining area, a cinema room, a gym, and, most importantly, a way to maximise those spectacular sea views. Our role was to take that vision and create a home that not only delivered it but also felt considered, elegant, and in harmony with the streetscape.
A design shaped by views, lifestyle, and legacy
Our solution was to extend to the side, the rear, and into the loft, carefully balancing practicality with architectural impact. By echoing the form of the existing turret and peaked gables, the new design respects the area’s character while bringing the home into the 21st century.
At the heart of the scheme is light-filled, open-plan living, designed for entertaining family and friends. Upstairs, balconies on both the first and second floors ensure the sea becomes part of daily life, whether enjoying a morning coffee, hosting sundowners, or simply watching the horizon. Private leisure spaces, including a home gym and a cinema room, create a home that is not only functional but also a retreat tailored to our clients’ lifestyle.
A home to enjoy for decades to come
This project is a perfect example of what many of our clients in the North East are seeking: a home that enhances quality of life now while creating a lasting family legacy. With only minor adjustments, the design was approved for submission to the local planning department — a smooth process backed by our expertise in balancing ambition with approvals.
For our clients, the result is more than an extension. It’s the transformation of a forgotten house into a forever home, perfectly suited for the next chapter of their lives.
The right fireplace for your house extension
A fireplace is more than a source of heat – it’s the heart of the home. Increasingly, our clients across …Planning a luxury home extension? Mistakes to avoid
With more than 1,000 residential projects completed across Newcastle, Northumberland and North Tyneside, the team at Acre Design has seen …Understanding the Larger Home Extension Scheme for your plans
If you’re considering extending your home, you may be pleased to know that the Government’s Larger Home Extension Scheme has been made …Pendant lighting: tips for your house extension or self-build
Pendant lighting is one of the most effective ways to add both function and style to your new extension or …Inspiring self-build and luxury extension design ideas
Designing your dream home — whether through a bespoke self-build or a beautifully crafted extension — is one of life’s …Choosing the right window style for your home extension
Windows are one of the most defining elements of your home’s design. Beyond their practical role, they shape how light …Why choose Acre Design
Specialists in residential design and project management
We provide a complete concept-to-completion service, managing every stage of your project with precision, ensuring your home transformation is seamless and stress-free.
Transparent, upfront pricing
Enjoy a free initial consultation and a fully detailed quote before any work begins, giving you clarity and confidence with no unexpected costs.
Effortless project delivery
From planning approvals to contractor coordination, our team takes care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying life while your dream home takes shape.
Proven Track Record
With more than 1,000 completed projects across Newcastle, Northumberland, and North Tyneside, we are trusted for our quality, creativity, and commitment to exceeding expectations.
Contact Acre Design
CAI Building, Royal Quays,
North Shields, NE29 6DE