Heritage Meets Contemporary | Listed House Extension near Bath

This thoughtfully crafted single-storey extension reimagines the south elevation of a Grade II listed 17th-century ashlar stone house near Bath. The design opens up the existing kitchen to a new light-filled, open-plan dining space, replacing a poor-quality 20th-century addition with a refined, contemporary structure that both respects and enhances the heritage of the original dwelling.

Classical in proportion yet modern in appearance, the new extension sits over the original conservatory and pergola footprint to remain visually subservient to the historic house. The intervention is clearly expressed as a contemporary addition — allowing the heritage asset to retain its architectural integrity while benefiting from significantly improved function and comfort.

Constructed from a beautifully detailed exposed limed oak frame with lead-grey zinc panel infills, the design incorporates high-performance Schüco aluminium windows and structural glazing, all expertly supplied and installed by Cotswold Windows. The aluminium glazing is colour-matched to complement the zinc and oak elements, while internally, the oak frame continues through the ceiling, framing rooflight openings and enhancing the architectural rhythm of the space. A crisp shadow bead detail at wall junctions emphasizes the structure and creates a sharp, modern interior.

This extension not only meets high thermal and airtightness performance standards but also integrates solar control glazing and shading solutions to ensure year-round comfort in the south-facing space.

The enlarged opening between the original kitchen and new extension improves spatial flow and functionality, securing the optimal, long-term use of the listed home. The architectural strategy — blending craftsmanship with innovation — enhances the building’s heritage value and contributes positively to its setting within a conservation area.

Architect: CaSA Architects