Set amidst the rolling Berkshire countryside, this 16th-century farmhouse has been thoughtfully reimagined to suit contemporary living while preserving its historic character and charm.
We undertook a sensitive renovation to introduce a contemporary, single-storey extension that enhances both aesthetic and functionality, seamlessly blending old and new.
The original timber-framed property had undergone various alterations over the years, resulting in a fragmented layout. Our challenge was to restore flow while respecting the building’s history. By replacing outdated structures with a carefully considered extension, we transformed how the house was used.
Lightweight yet strikingly contemporary, the new extension is designed to have minimal impact on the historic building. Slim aluminium posts and beams echo the property’s original timber frame, while full-height sliding doors create a seamless connection to the surrounding garden.
The exterior is clad in charred black timber – a nod to the home’s traditional monochrome aesthetic, while an extended roof with louvered detailing filters natural light.
The reconfigured space transforms everyday living, introducing a generous open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, creating a more sociable and connected environment. Positioned to maximize garden views, the new kitchen now truly serves as the heart of the home.
A new utility space and boot room have been designed to enhance modern family living. Bespoke joinery provides tailored storage solutions in both areas, optimising functionality and flow. Tumbled limestone flooring was chosen for its durability and ease of maintenance, combining practicality with timeless appeal.
Upstairs, we refined the primary suite to enhance both function and flow. A previously oversized bathroom was reconfigured to create a dedicated dressing room, leading to a luxurious en-suite. Bespoke joinery by Langstaff ensures elegant, tailored storage solutions, balancing practicality with a refined aesthetic.
Set amidst the rolling Berkshire countryside, this 16th-century farmhouse has been thoughtfully reimagined to suit modern living.
With a brief to create a clean and contemporary aesthetic while respecting the home’s historic heritage, our approach was to blend traditional craftsmanship with elegant, modern design.
The kitchen sits at the heart of the new extension and features traditional in-frame shaker cabinetry by Langstaff, finished with Corston Architectural brass hardware. This is complemented by a large central island with a more contemporary feel, featuring quartz worktops and a sleek waterfall-style finish.
Storage was a key consideration in the design – a previously underutilised corridor was transformed into a walk-in pantry, with bespoke joinery created by Langstaff to offer a mix of open and closed storage solutions.
Historic elements such as the exposed timber beams, red brickwork and original stone fireplace were meticulously restored in the dining room, celebrating the home’s heritage. Acting as the centrepiece in the room, a bespoke oak dining table with a live-edge finish provides a striking contrast against the light oak flooring, while warm-toned dining chairs introduce warmth and softness.
In the formal living room, the original stone fireplace takes centre stage, whilst the design scheme layers textures, patterns, and natural materials to create a space that feels warm and welcoming. A neutral foundation allows rich, earthy tones of rust and deep reds to weave through the soft furnishings, adding depth and character.
Throughout the property, considered interior architecture played a pivotal role in enhancing functionality while introducing contemporary design elements. The guest bathrooms, once defined by impractical proportions, were completely reconfigured to create elegant yet characterful spaces. In the children’s bathroom, a playful blue-and-white striped tiled floor adds a whimsical touch.
The previously oversized primary bathroom was reconfigured to create a dedicated dressing room, leading to a luxurious en-suite. Maximizing storage was key within the dressing space, with bespoke cabinetry by Langstaff providing tailored solutions.
The en-suite is designed with a focus on understated luxury – the original vaulted ceilings add a sense of grandeur, while the finer details elevate the space. The shower enclosure is finished with Zellige tiles, meticulously set to frame the built-in niche. The bespoke double vanity unit created with Parker Howley & Co features reeded drawers and a Carrara marble countertop, bringing both texture and timeless elegance.
Listed & Heritage
Renovations
Architecture
Interior Design
Berkshire
Delivered
Lonergan and Co