We were asked to extend and reconfigure a handsome Grade II Listed property to provide contemporary living for a young family, whilst creating a design that married the old with new.

Throughout the planning process we engaged with the Conservation Officer and placed importance in the quality of the architecture. Our proposals were undeniably contemporary and clearly identified the old and new parts of the building to create a simple and restrained design that created open plan living for the client and made the most of the beautiful rural landscape and views.

The Old School is a handsome characterful building; however, beyond the original Listed School the property is compromised and in cohesive for modern living. Our proposals demolished the existing unsightly aspects of the house and add a linear extension along the rear boundary. The low-lying massing of this addition is not visible from the street and responds to the agricultural setting as well as opening the space up to a view of the rolling countryside beyond.

A simple palette of stone, glass and timber complement the existing Listed School House and respond to the local materiality and context. The proposals, whilst contemporary, are respectful to the site’s heritage and as such positively reinforce the diversity of properties within the locality.

Our early engagement with the planners on the project undoubtedly benefitted the scheme and has produced a design that will have a positive effect on the clients’ lifestyle and the wider architecture of the local area.