The Rookery
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, one of Hampshire’s most expensive addresses, 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
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 doorway 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 of the central living room and serves to balance 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. The timbers are not just decorative, this is true timber frame with brickwork infill.
A meticulously crafted extension
The original front door was understated and lacked clear definition. The remodelling introduced a new, prominent entrance with a porch, giving the property a clearer and more welcoming sense of arrival.
The house extension has been beautifully crafted with handmade red brick laid in a combination of traditional herringbone and English bond pattern, set within naturally weathered structural 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
