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Rear elevation of historic house with red brick and timber detail

The Rookery

An authentic extension to a historic country house in Beaulieu, Hampshire
Location Beaulieu, New Forest
Status Built
Use Residential
Client Private

Set along the picturesque River Beaulieu in the New Forest and reached by a sweeping gravel drive, The Rookery is a 1909 Arts-and-Crafts style home of notable character. The property on Dock Lane, is within the Beaulieu Conservation Area and surrounded by mature planting concealing it from neighbouring properties.

The original house was too small for its owners requirements, who wished to accommodate visiting family with many grandchildren.

Project Awards & Recognition

Publication
Country Life Magazine
2025
before photo of front view of residential house
Approach view to historic residential house with extension
Rear elevation of historic house with red brick and timber detail

An extension designed and built with authenticity

In accordance with the Local Plan policy at the time, WDA achieved a 30% enlargement of the property, extending the eastern elevation to two storeys and introducing a projecting form along the northern (entrance) elevation.

A porch on the south elevation facing the river obscured the door way and restricted light to the inner house. The porch was relocated to the east elevation where it could serve as a new entrance to the walled garden. The replacement of the south porch with a new full height bay, greatly improves the aspect on the central living room and strengthens the balance of the elevation.

The new extension is built to match the existing building with green oak timbers and red brick, to remain true to the home’s original character.

before photo of rear view of residential house
Rear elevation of historic house with red brick and timber detail
Approach view to historic residential house with extension

A meticulously crafted extension

The original front door was understated and lacked clear definition. The remodelling introduced a new, more prominent entrance with a porch, giving the property a clearer sense of arrival.

The house extension has been beautifully crafted with red brick laid in a combination of traditional herringbone and English bond pattern, set within decorative oak timbers.

The windows were among the highest-quality, premium units available, comprising of hardwood frames with steel casements and leaded lights.

Completion Date 2003

extension with red brick detail on historic house
side view of historic residential red brick house with timber detail