Gregory Phillips Architects adds a contemporary extension to a historic property in Kent
Gregory Phillips Architects has recently completed an extensive refurbishment, reconfiguration and extension to a Grade II listed property in Sevenoaks, Kent.
Project Name-Sevenoaks
Studio Name-Gregory Phillips Architects
Completion date- 2019
Location-England, United Kingdom
Photographer- Mel Yates
The practice was briefed by the client to update, modernise and add a contemporary extension to a Grade II listed farmhouse and barn to create a family home.
Gregory Phillips Architects was challenged to fulfil the brief of modernising the existing property, including the barn, elements of which are believed to date back 500 years, alter the layout to suit open plan living, upgrade the building fabric to improve thermal
performance, and to renew the mechanical and electrical services to improve energy efficiency, all while respecting the heritage of the property and obtaining the required statutory permissions to carry out the work in the form of Listed building consent and planning permission.
The practice successfully demonstrated to the conservation officer and local authority how the property could be updated and a contemporary extension added, without detracting
from the historic character of the farm houses and barn. Gregory Phillips Architects
challenged traditionally held views resisting contemporary architecture being added to historic properties, holding detailed and lengthy discussions and consultations to establish an acceptable design proposal and illustrate how the extension could be of a modern
character and complement the existing historic farmhouse and barn.
Once planning permission and listed building consent were secured, the practice’s next challenge was integrating new technologies within the existing fabric of the building, while retaining important historical features. In order to improve efficiency and sustainability of the property, new mechanical and electrical installations were also required throughout.
Whilst standard Double glazing is typically not acceptable in listed buildings, the practice conducted substantial research into available glazing specifications to make a case to the conservation officer for the allowance of slim DGU’s to be incorporated within the existing timber frames, arguing that these would improve the thermal efficiency of the property
without negatively impacting the historic character.
Gregory Phillips Architects reconfigured the ground floor plan and added an ultra modern glazed extension with bronze cladding, which houses the new kitchen by Plain English and provides the family with an arrangement suited to open plan living. The family home is situated on 69 acres of land, with a private golf course and wild deer and the new contemporary addition maximises views of this idyllic rural setting. The modern kitchen extension now serves as the heart of the family home and forms a link between the old farmhouse and the barn which was previously an isolated space and largely unused by the family.
The transition and relationship between interior and exterior spaces have been carefully considered. Gregory Phillips Architects designed the landscape concept and worked with landscape designers to implement and advise on planting. The landscaping complements the character of the extension and gently integrates the sculptural form of the extension into the surrounding landscape. The enclosed courtyard, accessed via the garden room, serves as a sanctuary for the family, with water features, trees and seating areas.
As well as the architecture and landscaping, the practice also oversaw the interior design of the property. Internally, modern furnishings, a neutral palette and natural materials create a contemporary aesthetic. White, wide board oak flooring by Dinesen is used throughout much of the property and complements both the new and old style buildings and gives a pared-back feel.
The barn retains its original roof structure, but has been transformed with bespoke cabinetry in white wood and furniture including a sofa by B&B Italia and a lounge chair by Viggo Boesen, from &Tradition, Elsewhere in the property, the study features walnut panelling, leather upholstered Finn Juhl 45 armchairs, and a fireplace with a limestone surround.
Gregory Phillips says “Through attention to detail, proportion and scale, we designed an extension which complements and respects the character of the existing farmhouse and barn. The new addition connects two external spaces and two different architectures, yet also stands alone as a bold sculptural form in its own right.”
About Gregory Phillips Architects
Established in 1991, Gregory Phillips Architects is a London-based architecture practice committed to delivering bespoke, exquisitely executed homes in the UK and abroad. The firm’s highly experienced team offers a seamless, holistic service encompassing architecture, landscaping and project management.
After training at Bristol University and the Mackintosh School of Architecture, Gregory Phillips set out to create contemporary homes that are timeless and expertly crafted. He was one of the first architects to pioneer a full service residential design and over decades has accrued unparalleled knowledge of the sector, as well as a reputation for open, light- filled spaces, rich materiality, precise detailing and a strong connection between inside and outside living.
