Extending listed buildings sustainably…

Ecotecture was originally approached to convert the stable block which, in turn, lead to the firm being appointed to design a sunroom extension to the property to act as a new entertainment area and help link the property to its stunning riverside location.

This project posed many problems which had to be overcome and worked round. These stemmed from the existing building being Grade Two* listed, so the project had to be developed in conjunction with the local conservation officer.

Another constraint was the new extension’s proximity to an established sycamore tree which necessitated an arboricultural survey to locate the roots so they could be taken into account.

The original brief from the client was to design a contemporary sunroom, this however was opposed by the conservation officer, so a balance had to be found. This was achieved through numerous sketch schemes and mediation until a solution could be sought. Inspiration taken from Philip Johnson’s Glass House helped to find this balance and provided a platform in which to base a design around.

The final design can be seen in the surrounding pictures.