They’d bought a promising house in a great area. But it wasn’t obvious how to add the space they needed for their growing family; especially as they loved its cottage charm. 

The upstairs of their home was the main issue, it was too small for their needs and poorly laid out.

Downstairs was a good size. But the kitchen was dark and disconnected from the other reception rooms.  

Due to the unusual design and the house being within a Conservation Area it wasn’t easy creating the space and wow factor they craved and win planning approval for their home.

But despite these challenges HEM Architects helped them to realise their home’s potential. We created a bespoke design that retained the cottage’s charm whilst contrasting it with two contemporary extensions which took cues from its faux arts and crafts style. 

The local authority were initially resistant to the modern extensions. But by using our tried and tested negotiation approach and the input of a heritage consultant, we were able to win planning on the first attempt with few compromises.  

To the south is a stunning Main Bedroom with dressing room and en-suite. The show stopper is the sizeable window with views over their beautiful garden and the trees beyond.

We also helped Dave & Lucy with the interior design where plywood panelling and exposed steel give this room an ultra modern look inspired by Dave’s background in steel fabrication. 

A key aim for Dave & Lucy was to dramatically reduce their impact on the environment. To help achieve this we focussed on externally insulating the walls, super-insulating the roof and fitting high performance triple-glazed windows from 21 Degrees. 

Solar Panels, battery storage and an air-source heat pump have also helped to massively reduce their home’s environmental impact.