Bishops Waltham Heritage Extension
Careful extension to listed property keeping historical character whilst adding modern family space. Sympathetic design respects the building's heritage.
The Brief
Our clients in Bishops Waltham owned a period property within the town's conservation area. The house had tremendous character — exposed beams, original fireplaces, uneven floors that tell the story of centuries of family life — but the kitchen was a cramped 1970s addition that did the rest of the house a disservice. They wanted to replace it with something that respected the building's heritage whilst providing a functional family kitchen.
Our Design Approach
Working within a conservation area demands a different design philosophy. Rather than trying to hide the extension, we designed a 28m² addition that is clearly of its time but deeply respectful of the original building. The form is simple — a single-storey lean-to with a steeply pitched roof — using locally sourced red brick laid in a traditional Flemish bond and handmade clay roof tiles.
The key design move was the connection between old and new. A wide opening framed with reclaimed oak beams links the extension to the original house, creating a visual and physical bridge between the centuries. Inside, the kitchen uses plain painted timber units that reference the Shaker tradition without pastiche, paired with oak worktops that echo the original beams visible throughout the house.
Planning and Approvals
Conservation area applications require additional supporting information, including a heritage impact assessment explaining how the proposals affect the character and appearance of the area. We prepared detailed drawings showing the extension in context, with material samples and precedent photographs demonstrating our approach. Winchester City Council's conservation officer was supportive throughout, and planning permission was granted within the standard 8-week period.
Key Design Features
- Heritage compliance: Full compliance with conservation area policies and heritage best practice
- Traditional materials: Locally sourced brick, handmade clay tiles, reclaimed oak beams
- Oak beam threshold: Reclaimed beam framing the opening between old and new
- Sympathetic kitchen: Plain painted timber units with oak worktops respecting the building's character
- Character retention: Original features preserved and celebrated in the redesigned layout
The Result
The completed extension demonstrates that sensitive design in conservation areas does not mean compromising on functionality. The new kitchen is spacious, light and practical — everything a modern family needs — whilst sitting entirely comfortably alongside the original 17th-century structure. The heritage officer who visited post-completion described it as "exactly the kind of thoughtful addition we hope to see in Bishops Waltham."
Planning Approval Rate
Projects Completed
Years Experience
+ VAT Fixed-Fee Packages
Want Something Similar for Your Home?
Book a complimentary consultation to discuss your extension project. We will assess your property, explain your options and provide a clear fixed-fee price — no obligation, no hidden costs.