Winchester Design & Build is proud to present this 2024 project: a part knock-down, part new-build extension, delivering an exemplary low-energy family home finished in locally sourced Bargate stone. The scheme stands as a refined example of how traditional architecture and modern technology can coexist beautifully — both aesthetically and environmentally.
Architectural Context and Design Philosophy
The property originally comprised an outdated dwelling that had reached the end of its functional life. The brief called for a sensitive re-use of the existing structure while introducing a striking contemporary extension that would elevate the home’s performance, comfort, and architectural presence.
The design strategy centred on contextual harmony — blending new and old through the careful selection of materials and proportion. The use of Bargate stone, a honey-toned sandstone native to Hampshire and Surrey, proved pivotal in securing planning approval. Its natural texture and colour ensured the home sat effortlessly within the local vernacular, while contrasting anthracite aluminium framing and expansive glazing introduced a distinctly modern edge.
This architectural dialogue between tradition and innovation became the project’s defining success — a triumph both in design language and planning negotiation.
Sustainability and Renewable Energy Systems
From the outset, the project was engineered to achieve exceptional sustainability standards. Winchester Design & Build integrated a suite of renewable energy technologies and high-performance systems to ensure long-term operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Key renewable installations include:
- Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP): Provides renewable heating and hot water with low carbon emissions, fully zoned via a smart home control system.
- Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): Continuously recovers up to 90% of internal heat while maintaining optimal air quality and humidity levels.
- Solar PV Array with Battery Storage: Supplies on-site electricity generation and night-time energy storage, dramatically reducing grid dependency.
- Underfloor Heating System: Maximises comfort and efficiency when integrated with the ASHP.
- Triple Glazing & High-Performance Insulation: Reduces heat loss and achieves superior U-values beyond Building Regulation minimums.
Together, these technologies deliver a property operating with over 60% energy savings compared to conventional homes of similar scale.
Construction and Delivery
The project’s hybrid nature — partial demolition and part new extension — required meticulous coordination between structural and architectural teams. Winchester Design & Build’s NHBC-approved contractors executed all works under a tightly managed design-and-build framework, ensuring consistency from substructure to finishes.
A new insulated slab foundation was designed to accept both the existing wall loads and the contemporary steel-frame extension. The integration of Bargate stone cladding, locally quarried and hand-dressed, ensured a seamless junction between phases of the build.
Completion was achieved within ten months, including full commissioning of renewable systems and certification under current Building Regulations Part L.
Interior Design and Comfort
Internally, the home blends timeless craftsmanship with modern minimalism. The double-height gable glazing floods the main living spaces with natural light, while neutral tones, limestone flooring, and bespoke joinery amplify the sense of openness.
All environmental systems — heating, lighting, and ventilation — are controlled via an integrated smart home interface, optimising performance while giving the homeowner intuitive control of comfort levels year-round.
Planning Success and Material Integrity
Integrating Renewable Innovation with Regional Material Integrity
Securing approval for a large contemporary extension in a semi-rural Hampshire context demanded architectural sensitivity. The use of Bargate stone was instrumental in demonstrating respect for local character and landscape setting. Its authentic texture anchored the new architecture within its environment, softening the impact of contemporary glazing and rooflines.
This material authenticity, combined with the project’s renewable-energy credentials, positioned the scheme as an exemplar of sustainable regional architecture — one that both planners and the community could support.
