Post: Reconfiguration of historic family home

Austin Design Works is proud to share the completed renovation and extension of this characterful property in the Wiltshire countryside with a layered architectural history and a new life as a modern family dwelling.

Originally built in the late 19th as part of the Great Chalfield estate, what is now one house began life as a row of three workers’ cottages, later joined to form a single home. Drawing on this past, Austin Design Works’ design approach was both respectful and bold – retaining the heritage of the property while reshaping it to meet the needs of a young and growing family rooted in the area.

The project involved the demolition and replacement of a tired entrance hall and an outdated conservatory, with the addition of a high-quality two-storey extension. Inside, the layout was reconfigured to improve circulation and create a more cohesive and functional living space. The once-disconnected kitchen now opens directly onto the garden, and a generous new master bedroom suite has been created on the upper floor.

A standout feature of the design is a dual-storey arched window on the south elevation. Inspired by the elegant Tudor arches of nearby Great Chalfield Manor House, this bespoke opening brings light deep into the home and frames long views across the garden from both floors. To realise this vision, Austin Design Works brought together a team of expert craftspeople, including a bespoke lintel supplier, a structural engineer, a traditional oak framer, and a specialist stonemason. These trusted relationships – built over years of working closely with local and regional artisans – enabled a seamless execution of this unique element.

The material palette was carefully selected to blend seamlessly with the existing building fabric. Local natural stone was sourced to closely match the original walls, while the new roof is finished in reconstituted stone tiles, matched in colour and laid in diminishing courses to echo the historic roofscape. Window detailing continues the character of the original building, with painted timber frames and stone surrounds that ensure a harmonious relationship between old and new.

The completed project is a timeless and sensitive reimagining of this traditional stone dwelling – strengthening its architectural identity, enriching its historical narrative, and making it a warm, functional home for modern family life.