Saltwood Cottage

This project involved the extension and complete remodelling of a traditional cottage, transforming a compact property into a warm, contemporary family home while carefully preserving the character that made it so special.

The Brief

Our clients approached us to help reimagine a small cottage on the edge of a village into a home that would meet the needs of their growing family. Having previously been a rental property, the house required extensive modernisation to improve both its layout and functionality, while retaining the charm and character that had attracted them to it in the first place.

Maximising Space

Creating a home for a modern family meant making the most of every square metre.

A thoughtfully designed rear extension more than doubled the property's usable floor space, creating a generous open-plan kitchen, dining and family area that has become the heart of the home.

Alongside the extension, we completely reconfigured the existing layout. By relocating the staircase and redesigning the internal spaces, we created a larger living room, a snug and an additional dining area, ensuring the original cottage worked just as hard as the new extension.

Preserving Character

While the home needed to evolve, it was equally important to celebrate its heritage.

Original features were carefully restored throughout the project, including the exposed timber joists, helping to retain the cottage's unique character while complementing the contemporary additions. The result is a home that successfully balances traditional craftsmanship with modern family living.

Enhancing the Exterior

The transformation extended beyond the interior.

The original brickwork was carefully repointed, new energy-efficient windows were installed throughout and contemporary composite cladding was introduced to the rear extension, creating a subtle contrast between old and new.

Landscape improvements, including a redesigned entrance and new driveway, completed the project, improving access, functionality and kerb appeal while creating an exterior that reflects the quality of the spaces within.

The Result

Saltwood Cottage is a wonderful example of how thoughtful architectural design can unlock the potential of an existing building. By combining a carefully considered extension with a complete internal remodel, we've created a spacious, contemporary family home that meets the needs of modern living while celebrating the cottage's original character and charm.

Most importantly, our clients now have a home that works beautifully for their family today and will continue to do so for years to come.