A Clash of Art and Heritage: Mr Doodle’s Dungeness Dream Home Faces Opposition
Sam Cox, the internationally renowned artist known as Mr Doodle, has ignited a debate in the tranquil coastal community of Dungeness, Kent, with his ambitious plans for a unique seaside residence. His vision for a "quirky" home, inspired by his signature doodle art, has been met with resistance from local residents and the Lydd Town Council, who argue that the proposed design clashes with the historical character of the area, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Dungeness, often referred to as "Britain’s only desert," possesses a distinctive landscape characterized by shingle beaches, scattered cottages, and remnants of industrial structures, creating a unique and somewhat desolate beauty. The proposed home, designed in collaboration with architect Guy Hollaway, seeks to integrate into this unusual setting while simultaneously showcasing Mr Doodle’s artistic flair.
The heart of the controversy lies in the home’s exterior. Computer-generated images reveal a structure enveloped in rusted corten steel, laser-cut with Mr Doodle’s characteristic doodles. Opponents contend that this metal facade disrupts the historical aesthetic of Dungeness and potentially harms the area’s environmental value. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of wildlife becoming trapped within the intricate doodle designs and the potential for increased visitor traffic due to the home’s artistic notoriety. The incorporation of two historic railway carriages into the building’s design has also drawn criticism, with the Lydd Town Council expressing concerns about the potential loss of the carriages’ original character.
In defense of the project, architect Guy Hollaway argues that the design is carefully considered to harmonize with the existing landscape. He points to the prevalence of rusting metal elements within Dungeness, such as disused train rails and metal structures, asserting that the corten steel cladding will blend seamlessly with these existing features. Hollaway emphasizes the subtle nature of the doodles, suggesting they are only discernible at close range. He further dismisses concerns about wildlife becoming trapped, citing a previous project, Pobble House, also in Dungeness, which features a similar corten steel facade with apertures and has not encountered such issues. Addressing the concerns regarding the railway carriages, Hollaway contends that the proposed renovations will actually enhance their historical value, as their current cladding obscures their original form. He emphasizes that the design aims to celebrate the carriages’ shape and character, which are currently lost.
The proposed single-story, three-bedroom home is slated to replace an existing bungalow on the site, occupying the same footprint. The two historic railway carriages will be meticulously dismantled, restored off-site, and then reintegrated into the structure. One carriage will be transformed into a functional kitchen space, while the other will serve as a study. The design also incorporates sustainable features, including solar panels discreetly placed behind the mesh facade and an air source heat pump coupled with underfloor heating to maximize energy efficiency.
The planning application submitted to the Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) by Hollaway Studio emphasizes the project’s alignment with the unique character of Dungeness. The document argues that the contemporary design resonates with the area’s independent spirit while the restoration of the railway carriages and the chosen materials demonstrate respect for the established historical vernacular. The application highlights the subtle nature of the doodles and emphasizes that the home is designed to be discreet and blend into the Dungeness backdrop. The fate of the proposed home now rests with the FHDC’s planning committee, whose decision is expected this month.
Mr Doodle’s artistic career has seen a meteoric rise since he began gaining recognition in 2015. Considered a pioneer of a "new art wave," he has amassed a substantial following on social media and has made headlines with his audacious projects, including covering his £1.35 million mansion in Tenterden, Kent, entirely in doodles. His Dungeness project represents another bold artistic statement, but one that has sparked a debate about the balance between artistic expression, historical preservation, and environmental sensitivity in a unique and cherished coastal landscape. The decision of the FHDC will set a precedent for future development in Dungeness and potentially influence how artistic interventions are considered in environmentally sensitive areas. Whether Mr Doodle’s vision will become a reality or remain a contentious dream remains to be seen.
