Grade II Listed Cottage

The brief:

Although listed Grade II, this historic cottage had been extended considerably in the 1930s and the 1960s. The alterations had generated a long roof with large roof volumes and rooms with modest-sized windows that restricted natural light. The windows also masked exceptional garden views. Due to the topography of the site, the kitchen lacked daylight.

Our client wanted to resolve these issues and create a garden room, a new study and an additional bedroom.

Solutions:

• Re-profile the hard and soft landscaping to the west of the house.
• Add a garden room extension.
• Convert the roof space to provide a study area and extra bedroom.
• Refenestrate the sitting room to improve the views of the garden.

Internally, heating and electrical systems have been upgraded and stone flag flooring laid in the kitchen. A new staircase replaces two previous ones, radically improving internal circulation. And flight space for resident bats has been retained in the roof.

Outside, the ground levels have been altered by lowering the retaining walls. As a result, light now fills the kitchen and the garden offers new opportunities for planting.