The existing building has been in the ownership of our clients for many years, mainly as a rental property. They approached us with a brief to help them turn the building into a more usable home. Our clients run a very successful fit-out contracting firm with a background in carpentry, therefore, we wanted to exploit a fondness for exposed joinery where possible.

The existing building is a non-uniform shape, in plan and section. It has been insensitively altered over time, with pastiche additions, giving the impression of a very unresolved massing and a house which didn’t really know what it was. The building is deceptively spacious on the inside but was carved up into a series of awkwardly shaped rooms and spaces. Nevertheless, this presented opportunities to improve the ‘whole’ by exploiting this volume and creating a more open plan arrangement.

We adopted a careful approach for this project, ensuring that the proposals were seen as a positive contribution; helping improve the surrounding area and offering a new chapter in the life of the Coach House. We stripped the building of all non-essential elements, replacing pastiche design with more contemporary additions.

We favour a simple approach to sustainability, setting fewer yet more meaningful targets. This project can demonstrate how low-tech, easy to use techniques can cut down on carbon requirements. Maximising natural light into the building through large openings and rooflights, combined with the double height void, will allow daylight to penetrate deep into the building, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Views of the trees and surrounding landscape will improve well-being and lift the spirits.

Use of timber for the extension and interiors will be extensive, allowing its wood-working owner to use sustainably sourced, local materials, creating a well-crafted home.