This project involved rejuvenating and extending a beautiful property in the countryside. This required breathing new life into the building, creating a harmonious blend of traditional character and modern functionality. By enhancing the connection to the surrounding countryside, optimising the use of natural light, and creating spacious areas for living, Method Studio aimed to create a beautiful comfortable home for our clients.

Brief

The brief from our clients was to rejuvenate their beautiful property and extend to the rear and side to make better use of their stunning countryside views. The main aim was to achieve four bedrooms, some with ensuites, as well as improving the flow of the downstairs living spaces. This necessitated reorienting the layouts of both floors to allow the main kitchen and living space to face the extensive garden area. On the first floor our client required a generous master suite that also connected well with the garden. The proposal meant our team could include stunning vaulted ceilings to make the new additions really special. Despite the challenges of the property being in a Green Belt area, the project had so much potential so our team were really excited to see how they could develop the clients' ideas.

Concept

This well-designed rear and side extension made the most of panoramic countryside views, enhancing the connection with nature. By incorporating large windows, sliding glass doors, and floor-to-ceiling glazing, the indoors seamlessly merged with the outdoor environment, creating a strong visual and emotional connection with nature. By opening up the house with glass elements and strategically placed skylights, this allowed natural light to flood the interior, creating bright, airy spaces that are energising. Extending to the house facilitated a shift to an open-plan design, integrating living, dining, and kitchen areas. This layout created a versatile space that is perfect for our clients' modern lifestyles. The additonial space also provided the option to create a luxurious master suite that capitalizes on the scenic views. This modern extension was designed to complement the traditional style through a careful choice of materials, proportions, and finishes, blending the old with the new harmoniously. By rejuvenating the property, the charm and historical character of the original architecture was preserved.

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Challenges

Securing planning permission for a development in a Green Belt area presents several architectural challenges, primarily due to the strict regulations designed to protect these areas from inappropriate development. The Green Belt was established to prevent urban sprawl, safeguard the countryside, and maintain the openness of natural landscapes. Architects must design with a clear rationale to show how the development meets the criteria for VSC (Very Special Circumstances). This may require creating proposals that demonstrate how the project minimises harm or even enhances the Green Belt. The majority of the development is unseen from the front, which adds a protection to the Green Belt area. The local Planning Authority were very specific about what we could build and the size so Method Studio were very pleased to achieve such an impressive sized extension.