Nestled within conservation, this Victorian villa commanded a prime plot within a Devon fishing village. My client loved the property, its style and statement frontage. However, the property needed extension to accommodate their family.

Our clients appointed us to provide a loft conversion to accommodate bedrooms, and also to design a single storey extension to house a new kitchen and living space. However, the existing format meant that the roof was not suitable for conversion, so we had to replace the whole roof to accommodate the extension. Due to the property being in the conservation area, we had to maintain the eaves detailing, whilst increasing the roof pitch to create the new room in the loft. Sensitive design of new glazed side dormers, and a traditional roof design won conservation officer support.

It is key to be realistic about the process, and the Planning Officer support was not immediate. We undertook a pre-application enquiry on behalf of the client, and negotiated on the detail with the officer, until we gained their support. Working with the Local Authority, where possible, and compromising where necessary, often leads to the best project gains. In this instance we managed to accommodate the client brief, whilst safeguarding the beauty of the conservation area, which is the ultimate aim for all involved.

The rear extension was designed to be a contemporary addition in copper cladding, with crittal doors, and glazed roof lanterns to give a high quality space internally and externally. The client had a particular eye for creating high quality interiors, which were design focused, but very comfortable home interiors suitable for family living. Teamed with good quality landscaping to enhance the setting, this is a project that all involved can be very proud of.

“Fearnley Lott Architects have created an outstanding design space that was beyond our expectations. The design process was one of the most memorable parts of the project and the idea to use copper to clad the extension gives a subtle nod in appreciation to the history of the fishing village in which the house lies. A stress free journey throughout the whole process which Fearnley Lott were indispensable by giving advice on many difficult design and build decisions.”