The former schoolhouse conversion is a prominent Grade II* listed property that lies in the heart of the village and dates from the early 17th Century.
There have been previous extensions to the historic core of the building dating first from the 1960’s and then later in the 1980’s. The new works proposed to demolish the least sympathetic 1960’s extension and replace it with a reconfigured new structure that is more considered in its relationship to the original building.
A minimally detailed glazed link connects to the historic elevation and is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible enabling this facade to be viewed easily in virtual isolation. This defines a clear break and distinction between one of the most important parts of the original building and the new construction.
Beyond, a new chestnut glulam structure frames the new family room that in turn allows great physical and visual connections to the two areas of previously isolated walled gardens. The new wood structure is designed to appear visually lighter and distinct from the two masonry wings and a low profile sedum flat roof ensures that the new extension it is no higher than the enclosing brick garden walls.
Within the interior, the chestnut glulam structure is fully exposed as are the white painted ceiling joists immediately above which recall historic construction methods but detailed in a quietly contemporary way.
The quantum of new space and aims of new space are modest but at the same time the project plays a pivotal role in connecting old and new as well as adding a further layer in the evolving history of this important local landmark.
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