In a notable development in the artistic and architectural landscape of Dungeness, Kent, planning permission has been granted for a unique seaside home project designed by cartoonist Sam Cox, popularly known as Mr Doodle. The Folkestone & Hythe District Council's planning committee approved the plans on March 18, with a decisive vote of nine councillors in favour and three against.
Mr Doodle's proposal entails converting an existing beach cottage into a three-bedroom holiday home that will incorporate railway carriages and feature his signature laser-cut doodles adorning the exterior. This project has not been without controversy, as local residents have expressed strong opinions about its aesthetic and environmental implications.
Critics of the project have labelled it a "vanity project," arguing that it lacks artistic merit and a connection to the unique beach environment. There are also serious concerns regarding the potential adverse effects on local wildlife, given that Dungeness is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Residents fear that the increase in visitor traffic could lead to trespassing on neighbouring properties, exacerbating existing tensions in the area.
In response to the opposition, Folkestone's planning officers presented an updated report which stated that additional images provided by Mr Doodle and the architects at Hollaway Studio illustrated how the designs would appear less imposing from a distance. The report concluded that the doodles would not detract from the character of the conservation area or its visual appeal.
One objector, sharing their worries on the council’s planning platform, stated, "The proposed major changes are totally out of character with most of the original buildings, destroying the historic character of the location for which it is famous." They voiced concerns about the visceral appeal of Mr Doodle’s work attracting an influx of visitors, potentially leading to significant disturbances for local residents.
Dee Miller, a resident who spoke against the application at the council meeting, highlighted that the number of local residents raising concerns had increased significantly since January, focusing specifically on issues regarding the building's height, materials, and overall design. She described the application as involving “something completely unpredictable—doodles,” which she found to be a significant departure from previous house designs in the area.
Guy Hollaway, the architect representing Mr Doodle, defended the project, stating, “What Sam has done is really pick out the unique characteristics of Dungeness - so native species, fishing boats, shingle, waveforms, train carriages - all depicted in the work.” He addressed concerns about the design’s potential impact, asserting their commitment to the ecological and aesthetic integrity of Dungeness. Hollaway proposed creating a full-size mock-up of the façade on-site to help conservation officers better assess the design.
Hollaway Studio, which has previously received ten RIBA awards for its innovative projects—including Pobble House, another home in Dungeness with a similar aesthetic—continues to emphasise its dedication to balancing modern artistic expression with traditional architectural sensibilities.
The planning permission comes with specific conditions, including the submission of a scale sample panel of the cladding and an agreement on the final dimensions of the doodles. This decision marks a significant step in the ongoing dialogue between the realms of art, architecture, and community in the distinctive coastal landscape of Dungeness.
Source: Noah Wire Services