Chipstead Lane

The outbuilding, originally a small barn with multiple levels and tight headroom, was in poor condition, with damp masonry and structural timber at risk. The main house required improvements to heating, circulation, and connections to the garden, while respecting its listed status. The clients needed a home that could support intergenerational living without compromising the building’s heritage character. Key challenges included creating usable spaces within the outbuilding, improving thermal comfort across both structures, navigating planning permission and listed building consent while preserving historic fabric.

E2 began with detailed surveys and iterative design sessions with the clients to understand lifestyle needs and priorities. The outbuilding was transformed into a one-bedroom annexe with a sensitive internal layout, new staircase, improved circulation, and a lightweight rear extension. Cobble floors and original masonry were preserved wherever possible, with breathable insulation and lime-based finishes safeguarding the historic fabric.

In the main house, we removed lean-to structures and reconfigured the kitchen and rear ground floor to improve flow and garden connectivity. Suspended timber floors were insulated and fitted with underfloor heating, and new secondary glazing enhanced thermal performance without altering the building’s character. Every intervention was carefully considered to respect the listed status while delivering practical, comfortable spaces for daily family life.

The outbuilding is now a fully functional, independent annexe that allows privacy while maintaining connection to the main house. The main house benefits from improved flow, thermal comfort, and stronger connections to the garden and communal areas. Together, the transformations make the property highly functional, comfortable, and elegant, blending heritage charm with modern family living requirements. The project demonstrates how sensitive, expert-led interventions can unlock the potential of historic buildings without compromising their character.