The new-build property is in the running for a top design award
Porthmadog House looks even more striking when lit up at night(Image: James Silverman Photography)
A dramatic new-build house perched above the Dwyryd estuary has given Porthmadog another architectural gem. Portmeirion, the Italianate-style village, leads the way but a contemporary property may be about to steal some of its limelight.
Porthmadog House is a replacement dwelling located on a sloping coastal plot that was commissioned by a newly retired couple. They spent five years researching ideas for their forever home and, with help from a leading architect, their efforts have certainly paid off.
The striking property, labelled a “one-off virtuosity”, now finds itself among six projects shortlisted for RSAW Welsh Architecture Awards 2026.
Others include a development of 20 new council homes, a traditional Welsh farmstead and an “uplifting” care home for individuals with dementia.
One of the building’s stand-out features is its ribbed corten steel container(Image: James Silverman Photography)
Porthmadog House replaced a property that had been left derelict for 15 years. It was designed by Ström Architects, an award-winning Hampshire-based practice.
The aim was not just to provide visual impact, and maximise the views over the estuary towards Eryri, but also to embed the building in its surroundings. This was achieved by taking inspiration from the area’s countryside and history.
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The property doesn’t dominate its estuary setting(Image: James Silverman Photography)
Its slate-clad supports are an obvious nod to Porthmadog’s role as the region’s largest port for slate exports. At the same time they provide a sheltered entrance to a courtyard beyond, off which lies a snug, gym and plant room, among others.
Meanwhile, corten steel was used on its external facades to salute the area’s industrial past, with a sequence of fins offering both protection and privacy.
The architects also faced another major challenge: how to create a beautiful building in an exposed location that would withstand coastal storms. Wind, rain and sightlines were mapped, and loads tested by structural engineers.
Extensive glazing showcases the spectacular coastal panoramas. An air source heat pump delivers underfloor heating and hot water, while a MVHR system will ensure the new owners stay comfortable throughout summer.
A wildlfower meadow in the rear courtyard where some of the utility rooms are housed(Image: James Silverman Photography)
St Beuno’s Jesuit Spirituality Centre
Also short-listed is the £2.6m renovation of the centre’s East Wing. This is part of a Grade II*-listed collection of buildings and registered landscape near Tremeirchion, Denbighshire.
The site has been occupied by the Jesuit Church since its construction, originally functioning as a college before transforming into a retreat centre that now hosts visitors from across the globe.
Renovation was overseen by Chambers Conservation, a firm that has also worked on Gwrych Castle and Waunfawr Welsh Highland Railway station.
Oak framework and Anglesey limestone flooring in St Beuno’s new-look east wing(Image: TG Williams)
Following the development of a comprehensive site-wide masterplan, the architects incorporated a series of modern, purpose-built meeting spaces in the east wing. A chapel entrance was redesigned and areas dedicated to spiritual guidance.
The contemporary additions aimed to complement the site’s natural beauty by using environmentally conscious, organic materials. Signature materials include oak framework and Anglesey limestone flooring.
The scheme also delivered cutting-edge catering facilities, accessible accommodation and retail areas.
A spacious meeting room in the east wing(Image: TG Williams)
‘Credit to the nation’
RSAW Jury Chair, Martin Hall, director at Hall+ Bednarczyk, is chairing the jury assessing the Welsh finalists. The competition is organised by the Royal Society of Architects in Wales (RSAW), with the winning projects announced later this spring.
Mr Hall said: “The shortlisted projects exemplify the talent shown by their architects and construction teams.
“Whether solving important social needs in elder care, responding creatively to historic buildings or showing virtuosity in the design of one-off dwellings, the six short-listed buildings are a credit to the nation’s building culture.”
The Welsh winners will be assessed for several special awards, including the RSAW Sustainability Award and RSAW Building of the Year. They will then be considered for a RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) national award, which will be announced in summer.
Ultimate prize is a shot at the coveted RIBA Stirling Prize for the UK’s best new building. The winner of this accolade will be announced in October. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
The shortlisted projectsAlma House by Benham Architects: Mixing old and new at a Grade II listed house in Monmouthshire.Iorwerth Jones by Pentan Architects: 20 new affordable homes designed for Cardiff CouncilPantybara by Rural Office: A traditional Welsh farmstead re-imagined in Carmarthenshire,Porthmadog House by Strom Architects: A contemporary new-build overlooking the Dwyryd estuary in GwyneddSevern View Park by Pentan Architects: A modern care home in MonmouthshireSt Beuno’s Jesuit Spirituality Centre by Chambers Conservation: £2.6m renovation of the centre’s east wing in Denbighshire.