The Plotlands: Improvised Housing in Coastal Britain

Abstract

The Plotlands Archive is an online photographic database recording unconventional houses and chalets and their vernacular construction methods. Originally built during the interwar period and those which have since been adapted and modified. Situated on coastal strips and in river valleys, few estates from that period still remain. The archive is a celebration of resourcefulness, creativity and character, recording the many unique materials used and vernacular design largely unseen within urban housing developments. The archive has been developed by Tim over a thirty-year period, recording many buildings no longer standing and some which have been since renovated beyond recognition. The database provides searchable access to houses by construction materials used, type of building and even colour. Locations include Humberston Fitties, The Brooklands Estate at Jaywick Sands, The Bel Air Estate at Seawick, Leysdown on Sea, Almere Ferry on the River Dee and Eccles-on-Sea, Norfolk.