Expanding and improving access to a historic home

Originally built in the 18th century, this historic cottage contains remnants of a 17th-century structure within. When the DIA began working with the client in 2020, the home originally consisted of a cottage and a small outbuilding.

Now, an inappropriate kitchen extension has been replaced with a modern extension formed of corten and zinc. A contemporary reflection of the historic brick and slate-roofed buildings, the new space is sensitively connected to the original façade with a glazed link.

A dated and oversized conservatory has been replaced by an appropriately proportioned bronze frame structure, with a matching addition to the opposite gable forming a new double-height glazed entrance hall.

The interior has been reconfigured to include a sculptural staircase, set against a feature oak frame wall, which has improved the internal layout and brought the original front door back into use.

High-quality finishes have been implemented throughout to complement the historic fabric and meet modern needs. Characterful features such as the oak-framed panelling and exposed timber joist and purlins have been repaired and retained where possible, and Moroccan plaster has been used within the home’s two bathrooms.