HOME + GARDEN
help keep the project and budget as agreed . They were also always ensuring the clients were able to maintain their lifestyle within the property throughout national lockdowns .
Were there any building factors you needed to consider e . g . listed status , conservation areas , planning considerations ? And if so , how did you achieve your design objectives while factoring these in ? Our client wanted a contemporary extension , which normally comes with limited complications . However , as the property was located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , and oast houses are classed as a Local Heritage asset , we had to design an extension that was contrasting of the original building . We also had to limit the amount of glazing so that the dark skies of the oast are maintained .
Were there any project pitfalls ? Working with old buildings can always bring up unexpected events . Quite often with these types of buildings , it is not until you start to demolish the existing structures that you know what you are working with . From uneven joists to rotted oak beams and minimal foundations , there is always a challenge to overcome .
Did you offer any interior styling solutions / advice for the home ? On this project the client had a clear idea on the materials and finishes they wanted internally so we worked closely with the kitchen designer ( Boffe Design ) and our client to help coordinate the various elements .
One of our favourite design features is the exposed brickwork of the oast that creates magnificent features between the old and the new construction . Previously this was painted white but by acid washing this back to the raw material we were able to create a statement of the roundel .
As a practice we have since introduced an interior design service to our clients that allows for additional design and coordination between the built form and internal finishing . This gives clients the comfort of knowing that all design is cohesive and enables projects to be taken to the next level of detail .
Did anything go wrong ? The work had commenced a couple of months before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic so that brought about its own complications of working restrictions as well as supply and manufacturing delays , which were felt throughout the whole construction industry . The biggest problem faced was the construction timeline and delays due to supply issues .
Did the property require any bespoke elements ? The glazing was designed to be another key statement of the extension . The eave roof lights were designed to bring as much of the east morning sun into the property and by using a glass to glass joint it meant that the view between window and roof light was uninterrupted by the framework .
The sliding doors were designed to disappear into a pocket so that when opened there is a completely seamless open space between internal and external spaces , making the most of the extensive garden . This means you aren ’ t left with a fixed panel of glazing that reduces the openable space of the doors . Using minimal frames to reduce the view interruption helps guests and the homeowners to take in most of the garden as soon as they enter the property .
What are you most proud of ? The fact that we have been able to develop an understanding of the local vernacular and design a contemporary yet sensitive intervention to the
existing context . Great design acknowledges the human scale and creates spaces with a sense of atmosphere . For example , at Bakers Farm Oast we had to transition the old dark lounge with low ceilings into a vaulted space flooded with natural light . We ’ ve showcased here that clever design can create spaces that encourage healthy lifestyles and enhance daily environments .
The clients now also advertise the property as a shoot location for film and photography which really showcases that our level of care and attention has been felt by the homeowner and they are proud to display our designs to other creatives .
What are your hints and tips for those looking to embark on a property renovation project ? Don ’ t always assume that adding extra space is the answer to your problems , look to work with your existing house and work hard to gain the most of what you have , then consider adding additional space .
Take your time in the early stages of design to make decisions and consider all proposals . The more time spent planning in the early design stages can save time and money during the construction phase of the project .
Think of the project as a financial investment into improving the quality and wellbeing of you and your family . Make it right for your own unique needs and then you will achieve the most from your property as it has a direct influence on your lifestyle .
www . colemananderson . co . uk @ colemanandersonarchitects
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