A 1930s property refurbishment and extension

An unwieldy planning process led to a longer-than-expected journey and required a flexible, collaborative design and build approach by our construction team.

“This whole- house extension and renovation project was carried out on a cost-plus basis" says Chris Noonan, Barr Build Director. “Having gone through a protracted planning process our clients were keen to proceed, and this was a way of getting a multi-faceted team on site quickly, with a build programme designed in two phases, to maximise flexibility.”  

Our clients' aim was to create a more balanced external aesthetic, whilst staying true to the 1930s architectural style of this property. Inside, their wish list included a large open-plan family kitchen/dining area which would directly access the garden, two additional ensuite bedrooms, lots of functional utility and storage space, and dedicated home-working areas.

Plans were drawn up for a sympathetic two-story extension, with matched brickwork and a mirrored pitched hipped roof, as well as matched roof tiles and first-floor fenestration. The extension would remain distinct from the original property by means of its separated roofline, with a lower ridge and eaves.

"Barr Build were the conduit for bringing our ideas to reality," says the client. "Working hand-in-hand with us, the team were able to take our outline architectural design and structural calculations, and made it happen." 

Proportions of the original rooms were to remain intact whilst significantly increasing the floorspace. Interior features, such as the Arts and Crafts-style brick fireplaces, were to be retained and restored where possible. 

Futureproofing was also a key driver for the renovation. Our clients were determined to improve the thermal performance of the house to reduce heat loss by replacing an old conservatory, whilst at the same time improving the visual and physical links between the house and garden. New double-glazed fenestration was matched to the original sash windows, which were refurbished. 

The property’s original main entrance features a stunning quadruple-arched brick detail, with a vertically panelled arched timber door. Rather than utilising large expanses of modern glazing, the new design incorporated fully glazed Crittall-style arched French doors, with a simpler double-arch brick surround detail, inspired by the original main door design.

Inside the new ground floor section of the property is a bright, airy family kitchen, behind which sits a large walk-in pantry and a drinks room. This is where Kirstie Howard, Founder and Director of Ordinary Interiors, took the reins. “The concept for the kitchen space was all about simplicity and impact,” says Kirstie. “By keeping cabinetry to base level, we freed up the walls to showcase the client’s incredible art collection, framing the views through curved Crittall-style doors.”

“The first archway leads to a bespoke drinks room designed with a big hit of personality, including bespoke cabinetry with fluted glazing and softly lit internals,” explains Kirstie. “A standout feature is the ceiling lights, salvaged from a decommissioned aeroplane and rewired for domestic use. The lights bring a subtle industrial nod to this space that works just as well for making a smoothie in the morning as it does for mixing cocktails when entertaining.” 

The second kitchen archway leads to a pantry, which was designed with pure functionality in mind... a dedicated zone to house all the tall cabinetry, with bespoke storage for all things ‘foodie’. “There’s something quietly beautiful about the simplicity of this space; its purpose is clear, and that honesty in design is part of what makes it feel so refined,” says Kirstie.  

A polished concrete floor, supplied by Lazenby in the extension, creates a cohesive base that anchors the Ordinary Interiors scheme. Elsewhere, original timber floors were restored in keeping with the clients’ desire to integrate stunning original features with considered modern design. 

Remodelling of the upper floor led to similarly transformational results. Bedrooms are bright and spacious, wardrobes, storage, and dressing rooms are ample, and bathrooms are playful.

We thank our clients for embracing a truly collaborative approach and for allowing us to share the wonderful project outcomes. Working hand in hand, Wyndham House went from 1980s chintz to a spacious modern take on Arts and Crafts architecture and styling.