Cottage, 1 West Street, Johnshaven

This is a two-story, three-bay house dating to circa 1830. It is situated on a sloping site with the main entrance on the first floor. The front of the house is constructed of red sandstone ashlar with rusticated quoins and a band course separating the ground and first floors; the rear is of rubble construction. A blocked door is set into the ground floor at the north side. Steps overhang a recessed area leading to the main entrance, which features a two-leaf door with a geometric fanlight. Cast-iron railings protect the basement area to the north. A rear door is slightly off-centre. The house has twelve-pane timber sash and case windows to the north side, with other windows featuring non-traditional glazing. The roof is slate, with brick end stacks.

Adjacent to the south is a single-story, three-bay cottage dating to circa 1800, now ruinous and constructed of rubble, partly harled.

The house represents a good example of a traditional dwelling close to the sea, contributing significantly to the streetscape. The north elevation, with its central glass and timber door and flanking windows, is a particularly attractive feature, as are the oversailing steps. The ruinous cottage in the garden adds to the interest of the property and is likely older than the main house.