Contemporary extension granted planning approval in AONB

The team at coombes : everitt has secured planning approval for a contemporary single-storey extension* to a cottage in an AONB, within a conservation area and identified locally as a building of historic importance.

On paper, it’s the sort of project many assume will be difficult: a sensitive setting, a heritage context and a clearly modern addition. In practice, the application moved smoothly through planning. The team didn't go through a formal pre-application process, and the conservation officer was supportive of a contemporary design that sits alongside, rather than imitates, the original house.

Discussions with the local authority focused on practical matters, including sustainable rainwater use and ecology enhancements. Conditions relating to items such as a water butt and bat boxes were agreed. The scheme was approved first time, with no changes requested to the design.

The homeowners' brief

The brief from the homeowners was to make the house work properly for family life. The existing ground floor is a series of compromised spaces, shaped by incremental extensions that restrict flow and limit natural light. Our proposal reconfigures the layout and introduces a predominantly glazed rear extension, opening up views across the escarpment, while drawing daylight deeper into the plan.

The proposal also includes a rework of the first floor, to create a new master bedroom suite within the original cottage.

We are now discussing taking the project forward through RIBA Stages 4 and 5, including Building Regulations and tender.

*AI generated image