Unlocking the Potential of a Cottage in the Green Belt

The Challenge
Oakwood Cottage is a modest 1890s terrace with a rendered façade and stunning views over Oxfordshire farmland. However, the interior didn't match the setting. The rooms were small, the stairs were steep, and the house felt disconnected from its garden and natural southern light.

The Vision
Our clients bought the house for its incredible garden and views. They wanted to transform a dark, cramped space into a sustainable, functional home while respecting its place in a coherent row of cottages.

Our Solution
By echoing and extending the form of the existing roofs, we designed a proportionate two-story rear extension and a subservient side wing to create

A Heart for the Home: A new open-plan kitchen and dining area that finally connects to those uninterrupted views.

Modern Comforts: A new master suite upstairs, plus a functional family bathroom and much-needed utility/shower room.

Light & Volume: A single-storey side extension with high sloped ceilings and rooflights to flood the previously dark core with light.

The Expertise
Navigating Green Belt restrictions was key. Working within the Vale of the White Horse, we designed the extension to comply with local policy, testing our ideas through a pre-app meeting to ensure a smooth planning process.

Aesthetic Sensitivity: We used timber weatherboarding to create a beautiful, rural contrast to the original render, ensuring the extension feels like a modern, subservient addition.