Designed with entertaining and large family gatherings in mind, Connected House is an alterations and additions beach house for a young family located on a sloping site in Rye. Instead of a sleek ‘black box’, crisp white weatherboard and predominantly lighter materials were selected to clad the additions - intended to reflect the relaxed informal coastal lifestyle. The concept aimed at consolidating a previously disjointed set of individual dimly lit spaces into a more cohesive light filled open-plan arrangement. Tree canopy and sea views can be glimpsed from generous glazing which is protected from westerly late summer solar heat load by deep overhangs. Accessed via the main living area, the deck steps creating a series of outdoor ‘rooms’ for family to gather whilst also providing panoramic views of unobstructed by pool fences.