Kent, England
Private Residence, Major Renovation
Completed
More than cramped and outdated, the existing 3-bedroom house in Kent felt like a burden for the family. Nestled amongst mature trees on the banks of a river in idyllic Chilham, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the setting was perfect, but the house, cold, damp, and poorly lit, offered no connection to this paradise.
Their dream? A light-filled, open-plan living space perfect for entertaining, a private guest room, and a master bedroom with a view that rivalled the village itself. While the family initially envisioned a contemporary design, we knew we had to navigate the planners’ concerns to create a home that seamlessly blended modern comfort with the traditional charm of Chilham.
In Detail:
Bridging the Gap Between Inside and Out
The family’s brief, though seemingly ambitious, resonated deeply. They craved a home that embraced the beauty of their surroundings, a place to gather with loved ones, and a space that reflected their evolving needs. Our design focused on creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. Large full-height windows and oversized sliding doors were strategically placed to bathe the living space in natural light and offer captivating views of the mature trees and flowing river. The open-plan layout fostered a sense of togetherness, ideal for family gatherings and entertaining guests.
A Sanctuary for the Family
The family's desire for a dedicated guest room was fulfilled with a new larger first floor seamlessly integrated onto the existing structure. Tucked away from the main living area, this addition provided privacy for visitors while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic. The master bedroom presented a unique challenge. The family longed for a space that mirrored the tranquility of the garden. Our solution involved a strategically placed Juliet Balcony, transforming their bedroom into a private haven overlooking the idyllic scenery.
Preserving Character, Embracing Efficiency
The initial contemporary design encountered resistance from the local planners who were concerned about maintaining the traditional aesthetic of Chilham. We embraced this challenge as an opportunity to showcase our design versatility. The final design incorporated more traditional materials and details, like dormer windows and horizontal timber cladding, creating a home that felt at home within the village’s historic fabric. Furthermore, the project incorporated sustainable features, such as high-performance insulation and energy-efficient appliances, ensuring the Knapp family’s comfort while minimizing their environmental impact.
A Transformation Realized
The Old Roses project transcended a simple renovation. It became a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating a home that reflects its inhabitants’ needs and aspirations while respecting its surroundings. The Knapp family now enjoys a light-filled haven, a place for togetherness, and a connection to the natural beauty that surrounds them. Their initial feelings of inadequacy have been replaced with pride, as they now welcome guests into a home that reflects their style and complements the charm of Chilham village.
Main Contractor: