Red House

A modern extension to a Grade II listed building and conversion of an existing outbuilding into a studio

Sited in a prominent location off the town square, the extension at Red House is surrounded by historically significant architecture. The brief was to create a spacious kitchen and dining area that connected directly to the garden, while also improving circulation between living spaces. The striking trapezoidal form is a deliberately strong contrast to its surroundings.

Hidden from public view by a tall garden wall, the kitchen and dining area were free to have significant areas of glazing to bring in natural light without being overlooked. The material palette transitions from more traditional finishes like the terracotta floor tile and exposed ceiling joists in the link into contemporary finishes in the bespoke kitchen.

Framed views from the outbuilding back towards the main house create connection between the two buildings. Existing fabric including the roof trusses were retained where possible in the outbuilding, while the interior was thermally upgraded to create habitable spaces. These upgrades included the installation of an Air Source Heat Pump, providing a renewable source of energy for the studio.

Structural Engineer: Superstructures

Contractor: M Chisnall & Sons Ltd.

Bespoke kitchen: Sofiture

Photographs by Alex Parnell