How do you preserve a site or building’s history while introducing contemporary design elements?
At OVS we are well-versed in working with sites that require preservation and modernisation; from Grade II listed family homes to green belt guest houses and historic barn extensions.
Here we take you through 3 of our projects that demonstrate how good design can blend heritage with modernity. This is one of our key services: conservation design
Transforming a Listed Building & Preserving Historic Architecture
Ecclestone Square is one of our standout projects. We transformed a Grade II listed building badly reconfigured in the 1970s into a timeless design infused with refined details and contemporary functionality. We restored the beauty of the property’s original architecture while elevating the way the space functions.
Making changes to a listed building of historical and architectural importance requires careful consideration and permission from the relevant local planning authority in the form of ‘Listed Building Consent.’ As an architecture practice with extensive knowledge of conservation architecture and planning permission, we can help you navigate the paperwork and permissions needed. Detailed plans, consultation with a conservation officer and collaboration with specialist contractors is key to this process. As is a deep understanding of a building’s heritage value.
In Ecclestone Square, we restored key historic elements, such as intricate mouldings, coving, and period-appropriate detailing. We introduced subtle and streamlined contemporary features such as innovative lighting and furnishings with a modern architectural profile. Crucially we reconfigured the layout of the home to create a seamless flow between spaces and a practical modern living environment.
Honouring the Landscape & the History of a Site
Honouring both the landscape and a unique industrial farming heritage, The Farmstead involved the conversion and extension of a narrow section of a barn into a guest house. This project required creative thinking, especially with the challenge of working within the barn’s narrow dimensions. Rather than opting for a traditional corridor layout, we focused on the idea of blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces to foster a deeper connection with nature. The result is a subtle glass and timber box extension and an open-air pergola that connects the bedrooms to the living spaces.
The Farmstead is a wonderful example of the way in which the careful selection of materials can create a harmonious connection between a space and its location. Employing brick, exposed beams, rich timber and expansive glazing, this contemporary design embraces the surrounding rural scenery while remaining sympathetic to the landscape and its history.
Sites with historical or natural significance, such as Green Belt land or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, present unique planning and development challenges. With our extensive experience, we can help you navigate these complexities in order to bring your project to life.
Crafting Luxury & Bespoke Design
Our Hyde Park Apartment project aimed to capture the luxury and grandeur of a unique and iconic location. While the residence is a listed building the vast majority of the construction was modernised in the 1950s with very little original fabric remaining. Using Listed Building Consent, we creatively crafted a new layout and design, raising dropped ceilings and reconfiguring the space to improve functionality.
To restore the elegance at the heart of this property we created custom-designed elements throughout the home. From an intricately crafted kitchen to unique wall finishes and tailored headboards, each feature was carefully chosen to elevate both aesthetics and practicality. This bespoke approach allowed for a personalised design that reflected the client's vision while incorporating contemporary elements that align with their lifestyle.
How Can We Help?
Whether restoring a building’s historic features or adding bespoke contemporary elements, we can help you on your design journey. Do you need renovation advice or are you embarking on redesigning a listed building? We can assist you in obtaining the consent and permissions you need. Get in touch today to discuss your dream project.
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