Preserving the Past, Creating the Future

The estate, once a royal forest known as Andredeswald (Saxon), was described in the chronicles of the Venerable Bede as an impenetrable haunt of deer, wolves, and wild boar. 

In Roman times, it became a hub for iron workings. Today, the house, which has been divided into separate residences, retains much of its original charm, with walls, steps, yew hedging, and a stone terrace adding to its historic appeal.

I had the privilege of working on one of these properties, converting a former stable block into a beautiful three-bedroom family home while respecting its rich heritage. Many original features were retained, including the distinctive porthole-style window, a nod to the building's history. 

To complement the traditional elements, I introduced Sentry box-style leaded bay windows, seamlessly blending modern design with the property's historic character.

The design of the works sought to gently repurpose the building, preserving both the fabric and relevance of the structure for generations to come. Every decision was made with careful consideration to respect its historical significance, ensuring that the building’s character remained intact while adapting it for modern living. By maintaining key original features, such as the porthole-style window, and introducing complementary design elements like the century box-style leaded bay windows, the project strikes a harmonious balance between heritage and contemporary functionality. The result is a home that honours the past while ensuring its continued legacy for future generations.