MODERN ADDITION

This Wiltshire cottage had plenty of charm, but suffered from the lessattractive traits associated with older properties – including cramped rooms and poor energy performance. The owners wanted to maximise space with an extension while being sensitive to the historic nature of the original house – which sits in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – as well as making the most of the dramatic views.

We had ambitious plans for a two-storey extension that would mirror the simple form and gable structure of the existing cottage. To our surprise, the design was approved without a hitch by the local planning authority, so we could go ahead with the build.

An open-plan kitchen-diner dominates the ground floor, finished with a polished concrete floor to help the space flow. Flush frameless doors lead to a cosy living area, and the rooms open up to the garden through floor-to-ceiling windows. A stunning double-height entrance, staircase and hall sit in the middle of the property, defining the old and new zones and providing a dramatic sense of elevation. Upstairs, we were able to create two extra bedrooms to future-proof the home.

Keen to make sure the extension complements the historic main cottage, externally we opted for blue lias stone, cedar, zinc and oak. All materials used were weathered to a subtle palette of greys so they sit comfortably in the wider landscape. The result is a warm, welcoming family home that mixes old with new. Above right and right The combination of blue lias stone, oak and cedar

cladding from Timbersource and a zinc roof from Rheinzink ensures that the new contemporarystyle extension is in sympathy with its surroundings.

Glazing (on extension), Rationel. Bespoke

doors, windows and staircase, Oakwrights.

Rooflights, Glazing Vision. Polished concrete

floors, Lazenby