Old School House

It was converted into a house in 1961 by a developer who removed original features and potential double height space the school building offered. The Architect for the project and her husband bought the house with the intention of refurbishing the building in a manner befitting its historic importance, but also breathing longevity into the home through contemporary design. They aimed to improve the layout and function of the home by restoring original features and spatial form hidden as a consequence of the 1961 conversion. This included: • Maximising natural daylight and ventilation; • Replacement of UPVC conservatory with minimal glazed extension; • Opening up original chimney creating double sided fireplace; • New thermally efficient aluminium windows and improvement of thermal performance of building; • Re-planning first floor layout to create master bedroom suite, opening up ceiling to expose the Oculus and rafters; and • Creating low parapet to allow full height window and balcony; Original materials reused include knapped flint, Fittleworth stone, Bath stone, clay tiles and oak flooring. New materials include a steel frame and spine staircase finished in RAL7022 colour to match the aluminium double glazing. SDNP planning conditions were met including dark skies policy and ecology. Structural walls were retained relocating necessary studwork partitions. A stone mason was commissioned to repurpose and reuse stone revealed during opening up works. Existing timber strip flooring was restored and extended. Views across the downs are now maximised within a thermally efficient home. The proposals restored the building in a contemporary way,rather than a pastiche of Victorian architecture. The understated aesthetic compliments the original architecture rather than competing with it. The potential of the building has been maximised and has met the Client’s aspiration as a 'forever home'.