Creating the heart of family life

Great Durnford, Wiltshire

Like many growing families, our clients loved their home but had simply outgrown the way it worked. Years of previous alterations had created a spacious house, yet the kitchen remained an isolated space that no longer reflected the way the family wanted to live.

With older children, a young toddler and two busy working parents, the vision was simple: a space where everyone could come together. Somewhere to cook, entertain and spend time as a family, while feeling naturally connected to the rest of the home.

Making that vision a reality required more than simply adding an extension. The new space needed to feel as though it had always belonged to the property, carefully matching the existing house while introducing a more contemporary way of living. A practical entrance space with dedicated storage was incorporated into the design, providing an organised transition between the outdoors and the heart of the home.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was developing a solution to the differing roof lines. Rather than accepting a series of awkward ceiling heights, a carefully considered false ridge beam helped achieve a dramatic vaulted ceiling that completely transformed the feel of the space. Generous rooflights flood the extension with natural light, making it bright and welcoming throughout the day.

A bold design direction introduced striking black aluminium glazing and generous picture windows, strengthening the connection between the home and garden while complementing the character of the original property. The result is a contemporary extension that feels both distinctive and perfectly at home.

Today, the kitchen has become the true heart of the home. Whether preparing family meals, entertaining friends or simply enjoying everyday life together, the transformation has created exactly the space the clients had imagined from the very beginning.

Thoughtfully designed to bring a growing family together, with a space that feels as though it has always belonged.