BETA We use cookies to improve your experience. By using architecture.com you agree to our terms of use and use of cookies. This is a new RIBA online service. We would like to hear your feedback .

Find an architect

School House

Mid Devon

Project Details

Alteration to existing property

Practice

Louise Crossman Architects

The Potato Store , Withycombe , Minehead , Somerset , TA24 6QB , United Kingdom

This former Victorian school had previously been converted into a one and a half storey, two bedroom house. Our brief was to extend the property to provide additional bedrooms, including an en suite, and more living space. The extension was designed to reflect the character of the property and to appear from the outside as a second wing of the original school building. A two storey glazed link provides space for a library and mezzanine walkway which joins the living spaces at first floor adding light and a sense of space. The living space upstairs comprises an open plan kitchen/dining room and a walkway through to a vaulted sitting room. To provide maximum natural light and views the new gable end in the sitting room was fully glazed, and when combined with the natural light from the glazed link and considered use of lighting, has created an open living space with a spacious and contemporary feel, which still offers smaller cosy areas within it. Downstairs two further bedrooms and an en suite bathroom were created, and the library greets you as you walk in through glazed link. With the gardens and driveway landscaped, the small two bedroom house has been transformed into an spacious four bedroom contemporary home, yet externally retains the character of the original school house.