Respecting the past, designed for modern living
Fittleton, Wiltshire
When our clients relocated from London, they were drawn to the charm and character of this beautiful listed thatched cottage. As a sociable couple who enjoy entertaining, they quickly recognised that while the property was full of history, its traditional layout no longer suited the way they wanted to live.
The kitchen and utility room were separated into smaller spaces, limiting both functionality and the opportunity to create a welcoming area for family and friends. The vision was to create a larger kitchen and dining space while preserving the unique character that had made them fall in love with the cottage in the first place.
Working within a listed property required a thoughtful and sensitive approach from the very beginning. Close collaboration with heritage professionals ensured every decision respected the building's history, while carefully considered structural alterations allowed the home to evolve without compromising its original character.
One of the key design objectives was to make the new layout feel entirely natural, as though it had always formed part of the cottage. By removing the dividing wall between the kitchen and utility room and relocating the utility area elsewhere within the property, a bright and welcoming entertaining space was created that feels perfectly in keeping with the age and style of the home.
As with many historic buildings, the project revealed a fascinating mix of traditional craftsmanship alongside more modern construction methods uncovered during demolition. This required careful planning and adaptable building techniques throughout. During the works, the decision was also made to replace the first floor joists, ensuring the property was strengthened for many years to come while access was available.
The completed transformation has given the cottage a new lease of life. The enlarged kitchen and dining space now forms the heart of the home, providing a beautiful setting for everyday living and entertaining while remaining entirely sympathetic to the character and heritage of this much loved property.
