Multi-generational home blends tradition and modernity in sussex
Nestled in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty of West Sussex, a remarkable home dubbed ‘Clay Rise’ redefines multigenerational living. Designed by Andre Templeton Ford and his wife, Jessica, an interiors stylist, the residence isn't just a dwelling; it's a testament to thoughtful design, sustainable practices, and the enduring bonds of family.
A family's vision takes shape
The genesis of Clay Rise wasn't a grand architectural theory, but a simple, practical need: supporting their children's care alongside their parents. “We’d spoken about living together as a family long before this project,” explains Andre, “so seeing it happen and work for us all is gratifying.” Situated just a stone’s throw from Andre’s childhood home, the plot presented a unique challenge – to create a contemporary haven amidst a landscape dotted with traditional cottages and newer builds.
Templeton Ford, the multidisciplinary practice founded by the couple in 2025, championed a design that honors local heritage while embracing innovation. The result is a sculptural creation with a distinctive curved roof clad in 'Brown antique' clay tiles, seamlessly integrated with brick-and-tile walls fabricated using the couple’s own clay—a nod to the region’s rich building traditions. Rather than mimic historical forms, the architects reinterpreted the language of Sussex’s clay tiles and weald clay bricks in a decidedly modern way.
Harmonizing with the landscape
The terraced design, partially embedded into the hillside, is key to the home’s harmonious integration with its surroundings. “The building is dug 1.5 metres into the hillside,” Andre explains, “with 193 square metres of built-up space spread across three floors – allowing the house not only to match the scale of the surrounding properties but also blend into the landscape.” A generous picture window in the living room frames the breathtaking outdoor vista, bringing the tranquility of nature indoors.
Inside, a nature-inspired material palette—pale textured walls, cabinetry crafted from construction off-cuts, and furniture featuring marble, wood, and rattan—creates a serene and contemporary atmosphere. A cleverly designed partition wall subtly separates the open-plan living-dining space from the kitchen, maintaining a sense of order and visual calm.
A self-build journey
The project wasn't without its challenges. Andre, leaving his position at Heatherwick Studio, became the main contractor and site manager, collaborating closely with local craftsmen. “Our greatest challenge was balancing the project with everyday life,” Jessica recalls, “We were building the house while working and raising young children and navigating the financial realities of a self-build.” The choice of a prefabricated timber panel system, driven by financial constraints, proved pivotal, significantly reducing construction time and enhancing build quality, while also contributing to the home’s airtightness and thermal performance.
Generational living, designed for the future
The ingenious design caters to the needs of multiple generations. Andre and Jessica’s children, Felix (5) and Juniper (2), primarily occupy the lower level, enjoying direct access to the garden. Andre’s parents have their own private haven on the top floor, while the middle floor serves as the heart of the home—a flexible, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area bathed in natural light. The design also anticipates future needs, with provisions for a ramp and the possibility of subdividing the main bedroom, ensuring accessibility for the older generation as time goes on.
The staircase, more than just a functional element, serves as a gathering place for the family and cleverly functions as a thermal chimney, facilitating natural ventilation and reducing energy consumption. Clay Rise has been recognized for its architectural excellence, winning Andre the 2026 UK RIBA South East Project Architect of the Year award and earning the prestigious UK RIBA South East Award. But for the couple, the true reward lies in the simple joy of watching their children develop close relationships with their grandparents, a testament to the power of thoughtful design to foster connection and create a lasting legacy.