Crownfields
Sevenoaks
Extension and refurbishment of a 1970s detached house
Context
This project involved the extension and reconfiguration of a 1970s detached house located close to Sevenoaks High Street. The existing property was a modest three bedroom home with a layout that felt closed off and limited in natural light.
The site is also located within a flood risk zone, which introduced additional considerations in how the extension could be designed and delivered.
Brief
The brief was to create a larger family home for a young family, including additional bedrooms, improved living space and a stronger connection to the garden.
This included a rear extension, a side extension and a new garage to the front of the property.
Design Response
The design focused on simplifying the existing layout and creating a clearer relationship between the main living spaces and the garden.
New openings and carefully positioned glazing were introduced to bring more natural light into the home, while the extensions were arranged to feel integrated with the existing building rather than added on.
Externally, a combination of timber cladding and light render was used to contrast with the original brickwork, giving the house a more contemporary character while remaining appropriate to its setting.
Alongside the spatial changes, fabric upgrades and solar panels were incorporated to improve the overall performance of the house.
Outcome
The result is a well-proportioned four bedroom family home that feels brighter, more connected and easier to live in.
The new layout creates a natural flow between spaces, with improved light and a stronger relationship to the garden, while the external changes give the house a more cohesive and refined appearance.
Location: Sevenoaks
Project type: Extension and alteration
Existing house: 1970s detached
Sustainability: Fabric upgrades and solar panels
Planning context: Flood risk zone
