36 • Countryside Homes & Interiors
History lesson O
wners of Britain’s 500,000- odd listed buildings may be considered fortunate
to be custodians of the nation’s architectural heritage, but, when it comes to alterations, that elevated status can be a heavy burden. Not only is it a criminal offence
to make unauthorised alterations to a listed building, it can also cost a small fortune if you’re forced to restore the building to its original state, and obtaining planning permission can be challenging, time-consuming and costly. Historic England protects listed buildings and offers advice to owners, but approval ultimately rests with the local authorities and is often dependent on the opinion of its conservation officer. When Jonathan Turpin, 47,
and his wife, Leslie, 47, sought permission to extend their two-bedroom, Grade II-listed, 18th-century cottage in Broughton, Wales, it met with objections from the local council, despite the plans being in a style that was sympathetic to the original architecture. “We thought we were playing it
safe by emulating the character of the existing building in the extension,” says Jonathan. “However, it soon became clear that we’d need to rethink our approach.”
“We were forewarned that it would
How a sensitive modern design enabled one couple to modify their listed building. Words: Sam Lewis
After eight months and a series of
rejections for the original design, the local planning authority advised them to consider a contemporary design that would be a modern interpretation of the historic building. “We were shocked,” says Jonathan.
“While my wife and I previously had our hearts set on a picture-perfect period property, we began looking into modern extension alternatives.” It soon became apparent that
the answer might lie with Germany building company Huf Haus. It offered a suitable solution not only for their dream 53sq metre extension, but for an additional 88sq metre self-contained annexe on the site for Jonathan’s elderly mother. Peter Huf — the lead architect at
Huf Haus in the UK — and his team set about creating a solution that would extend the period property and quickly managed to satisfy the planning authorities by seamlessly contrasting the new with the old and incorporating eco-friendly features. “We were close to giving up hope
on achieving our dream home but since Huf Haus came along ... it’s been an easy ride,” says Leslie. Te couple laid the foundations
and then travelled to the Huf Haus factory in Hartenfels, Germany, to look at its show homes for inspiration regarding interior design.
be an intense experience, where all aspects of our home would be considered — from the positioning of plug sockets to the finish on the flooring,” says Leslie. “While at first, we were daunted by all the decisions that needed to be made, the Huf Haus team made it simple and stress free.” Te couple decided to implement
two styles. “Te cottage has a classic look with charming original features, while the extension has a fresh, sleek, modern look,” Jonathan explains. “Living in a home of two halves means we can choose an environment to suit our mood — while the cottage has a certain charm, the annexe is both cosy yet connected to the outdoors.” As Jonathan’s mother is in her 70s,
ensuring the annexe would be future- proofed was a priority. “We were able
Te Countryside Experience • Sunday 12 August 2018
to opt for smooth flooring and wide doors throughout to accommodate wheelchair access, should her mobility requirements change.” Upon returning to the UK, the
Turpin’s bespoke home arrived on site, fresh from the factory and ready to be assembled in just a few weeks. “Te team arrived exactly when expected and after everything was in place remained on hand to remedy any snagging issues. As soon as an issue was identified, a solution was implemented there and then — there was no wasting time waiting for tradesmen to show up.” Te glass and timber structures
are completely airtight, offering unparalleled insulation. Floor-to- ceiling windows flood the interiors with an abundance of natural light, contributing to good health and well-being, without compromising on energy efficiency.
“Our friends are always asking how
we keep up with the maintenance,” says Jonathan. “After all, with so much glass you’d expect there to be a hefty window cleaning cost. However, the overhang incorporated into the design of the roof protects the surface of the glass and ensures the upkeep is minimal.” Te couple say the extension
— which was completed ahead of schedule, taking just 15 weeks from the initial design stage to completion — has added a completely new dimension to their home. “We have a new dining room, sitting room and hotel-style bathroom,” says Leslie. “And the open-plan design is ideal for year-round entertaining. What’s more, my mother couldn’t be happier with her new bungalow — her spacious one-bedroom home in our beautiful garden is the envy of all her friends.”
COSTS Cost of the Grade II-listed cottage (2010)
Cost to build the extension and annexe (spring 2016)
£367,500 £592,000
Savills’ valuation of the whole property (Grade II-listed cottage, extension and annexe — 2018)
£1.7m
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