West Barn
A Beautifully detailed contemporary extension built from high performance Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) together with the remodeling of a traditional cottage in Plush, rural Dorset.
Project Awards & Recognition
Enhancing the old with the new
Western Design Architects were commissioned to extensively modernise and extend this charming flint and brick cottage, which was formerly within the estate of Plush Manor.
The eastern end of the existing building formed part of the stable block for the manor house and is thought to have been constructed in the late 19th Century. The building was heavily altered in the 1980’s when it was extended and converted to create a single- family dwelling.
The project brief required a simple, yet beautifully detailed modern extension to be added to the cottage and for the original house to be renovated to meet modern living standards.
Bespoke cedar louvres for shading and security
The modern extension connects to the original house wall with a “light touch” glass link, and is constructed from Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and over-clad with western red cedar with a feature flint stone wall to reflect the original cottage construction.
The roof is clad in zinc, which offers a contrast to the original house materials, whilst harmonising with the original grey roof slate tones.
Sliding cedar louvres also offer the occupants solar control from the large areas of glazing which look over the splendid cottage gardens.
Scandinavian-style interior
Internally, the original cottage has been transformed with a modern vernacular finish.
Crisp white walls work alongside the subtle tones of the original exposed trussed roof structure and the cantilever tread staircase within the double height hall offers a dramatic focal point at the heart of the home.
Photography Stuart Cox
Size 300 sqm
Build Cost £500,000
Completion Date 2015
Builder Luke Warm
SIP’s Kingpan TEK
Zinc Roof Rheinzink
Airsource Heat Pump Heat Tech Systems
