The Conversion of a traditional stone built cottage in the centre of Wetherby for an individual client with a complex brief.

 

The refurbishment completely reorganised and modernised the existing cottage, to the specific requirements of the client. The principal living area of the house was re-orientated to take advantage of the South facing courtyard to the rear of the building. A dinning/kitchen was formed at the front of the house where it addresses the street. The first floor was rearranged to suit the particular needs of the client's lifestyle.

 

The cottage was extended into the courtyard with substantially glassed structure, and the southern side of the plan was opened up between the two floors to make the most of solar gains.

 

This natural source of heat, combined with the thermal massing of the traditional solid wall construction, and improved thermal insulation at the top of the house, serve to minimise the energy use of the house. A whole house ventilation system helps to distribute the warmth from the south facing areas to the rear of the house, whilst also exchanging the heat from the waste air to an incoming fresh air supply.

 

The fittings and finishes in the refurbished building were designed and detailed to a high standard with a great deal of input from the client.