A humble Sussex vernacular cottage restored
Whitehouse Farm Cottage, a Grade II listed detached home dating back to the 18th century, is situated within a picturesque West Sussex garden, complete with a stream that runs alongside the property. Originally, the cottage is believed to have comprised three separate dwellings built for workers from the neighbouring farm. Its architecture is both distinctive and inventive, reflecting practical design choices aimed at improving the daily lives of those who once lived and worked there.
As part of the full refurbishment works, it was important to the client to take a thoughtful and conservation-led approach.
With our design, we are removing some of the building’s later additions to allow the authentic architecture—rooted in vernacular tradition—to speak for itself once more. This approach is inspired by research into the work of Baillie Scott, whose designs embody the “spirit of the old work.”
Naturally over time, the needs of the residents have changed.
As designers, our primary focus is on preserving the building’s inherent charm while making thoughtful improvements to support modern living. This home’s story is not one of open-plan design; rather, its architecture is defined by the interplay between individual spaces and the contrasting volumes that shape them.
Opening up the existing entrance hall and staircase is a key aspect of this scheme, creating a more open, flowing internal circulation without sacrificing the original character.
The proposed addition of two hipped dormer windows to the rear elevation will introduce more natural light and usable space, while remaining sensitive to the building’s historic character.
Grade II listed Cottage / Full refurbishment/ Sussex Vernacular Cottage
A humble Sussex vernacular cottage restored
Whitehouse Farm Cottage, a Grade II listed detached home dating back to the 18th century, is situated within a picturesque West Sussex garden, complete with a stream that runs alongside the property. Originally, the cottage is believed to have comprised three separate dwellings built for workers from the neighbouring farm. Its architecture is both distinctive and inventive, reflecting practical design choices aimed at improving the daily lives of those who once lived and worked there.
As part of the full refurbishment works, it was important to the client to take a thoughtful and conservation-led approach.
With our design, we are removing some of the building’s later additions to allow the authentic architecture—rooted in vernacular tradition—to speak for itself once more. This approach is inspired by research into the work of Baillie Scott, whose designs embody the “spirit of the old work.”
Naturally over time, the needs of the residents have changed.
As designers, our primary focus is on preserving the building’s inherent charm while making thoughtful improvements to support modern living. This home’s story is not one of open-plan design; rather, its architecture is defined by the interplay between individual spaces and the contrasting volumes that shape them.
Opening up the existing entrance hall and staircase is a key aspect of this scheme, creating a more open, flowing internal circulation without sacrificing the original character.
The proposed addition of two hipped dormer windows to the rear elevation will introduce more natural light and usable space, while remaining sensitive to the building’s historic character.