The Project
There are multiple design aspects to the transformation of this home on the outskirts of Bourne, all aimed at making it more functional for a growing family. Our clients reached out as they felt their existing home wasn’t meeting their current needs, and there were areas that could be put to better use, in their case, it was the garage, which was being used as a glorified store room.
As with most family homes, the kitchen was also high on the list for reworking, with the goal of achieving a more hospitable and open space without encroaching too much into the garden, which enjoys scenic views across the open countryside. The ever-changing British weather had also prompted our clients to consider a larger front porch area, offering more space for collections of soggy coats and muddy wellies before entering the main hallway.
With a broad brief in place, we set to work offering a range of flexible design options to suit the clients’ budget. Each section of the project has been designed so it can be phased, accommodating not only financial considerations but also time constraints, particularly those influenced by changing weather conditions.
Interior and Exterior Design
We offered several different design options, including various layouts for the new first-floor space, as well as alternatives showing either a full garage conversion or simply extending above it. The final result is a modern, open-plan home with new spaces that strike the perfect balance between functionality for family life and contemporary design that flows seamlessly from the front door.
The approved design introduces a garage conversion to create a study area, with a first-floor extension above forming a substantial master bedroom complete with en-suite. At ground floor level, a single storey rear extension improves the connection between the kitchen and garden, creating a more open and functional living environment suited to an expanding family.
The entrance porch has been redesigned to create not only a new focal point to the front elevation but also a practical transition space from the outside elements before entering the main home. Together, these elements form a cohesive and comprehensive transformation.
A key consideration throughout the design process was symmetry, ensuring the house would continue to sit comfortably within the street scene. The extension over the garage has been carefully positioned and detailed to align with the existing roofline, maintaining balance across the front elevation.
At the rear, the single storey extension introduces additional glazing and stronger visual links to both the garden and the open countryside beyond. The new open-plan kitchen area has been designed to feel bright, spacious, and connected, while remaining sympathetic to the original two-storey structure.
Material choices for the extensions were carefully selected to complement the existing dwelling, allowing the additions to read as a natural evolution of the property rather than a contrasting insertion. We provided 3D architectural visualisations demonstrating how the project could look with a neutral off-white render and timber cladding; however, after much consideration, the clients decided they wanted the new extensions to blend seamlessly with the existing house.
We are pleased to have helped this family make lasting improvements to a home that can now grow with them, rather than feeling like a constant struggle for space.
Submission to Local Planning Authority
This project is currently progressing through the householder planning process, and we look forward to receiving the Local Authority’s decision. We hope the planning officers will agree that the proposals reflect the natural progression of how a home can evolve to better suit family life.
Our 3D architectural visualisations were submitted as part of the planning application to clearly demonstrate how the proposed works will integrate seamlessly with the existing property.
If you are considering creating more space within your home, we would be delighted to discuss the possibilities with your during a free initial consultation. Get in touch today!
Keep up to date with our live projects and office adventures on our Facebook page.