When Sarah-Jane and Giles Miller came across a hidden plot of land on the site of an old nunnery in Kent, they were instantly taken with its verdant location. The life and work partners behind Giles Miller Studio were looking for a place to build a home that celebrated the relationship between materials and light – a principle that lies at the core of their design practice. “We’d always been interested in how the studio’s approach might manifest itself in a building you could live in,” says architect Giles, who primarily works on pavilions and social spaces. Having recently completed this house, his debut residential project, we discover how the couple’s brief was met and the beauty of their secluded spot in Broadstairs.

The starting point for the project was the landscape, which, as Giles points out, was already rich with texture thanks to the towering trees encircling the plot. As a result, the couple decided that the house should have a simple structure to avoid obstructing the verdant views. The latter also informed the external material palette; expansive glazing has been employed so that views from within the house are unobstructed. “When you come here, you reconnect with nature,” says Sarah-Jane. Giles agrees: “The trees are the prominent characteristic of the building.”

Inside, a stripped-back and natural palette also ensures minimal distraction from the outside. Dappled light projects through the windows into each corner of the house at different points of the day, making it a pure joy to spend time in. It’s no wonder Sarah-Jane and Giles are so willing to host. “We want people to come and use it as much as possible,” says Giles, while Sarah-Jane adds, “It’s a space for friends and family to come and share really lovely moments.”

Perhaps one of the most wonderful things about the house is its proximity to the beach. Broadstairs’ coastline, which is loved by locals and visitors alike for its sandy shore, is only a short walk away. The soft sounds of the waves crashing in the distance and the lingering scent of salt air ensures a connection to the water – and yet the house is completely hidden in its glade from the sea.

Despite its polish, the project is far from over. “The future for the house is exciting because it’s going to become more at one with its surroundings,” says Giles. Watch the film now for a full tour and to find out what’s next for the house. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel so that you never miss an episode. And, as always, happy watching.