Retrofit & Extension of Bank Cottage Streat East Sussex

BakerBrown was commissioned to implement a series of interventions to enhance the building’s thermal performance (previously EPC E, now A) and improve accessibility throughout the cottage. The project also included the refurbishment and extension of a 19th-century barn annexe. BakerBrown wanted to prove that the application of a rigorous design methodology involving thermo-dynamic digital modelling early in the design process could transform the existing buildings into an affordable, low carbon home for our clients. And that this could be done in a cost-effective impactful way. Upgrades to the cottage included the installation of level access through a front porch extension, a redesigned staircase to better accommodate elderly residents, and a comprehensive “fabric first” retrofit including insulating the loft, external wall insulation to the first floor finished with matching clay tiles, upgrading windows to slimline double-glazed units. The ground floor’s solid flint and brick walls were retained, contributing valuable thermal mass, with underfloor heating throughout the first floor. An array of photovoltaic solar panels installed on the barn roof to supplement the new heat pump and hot water system. The barn was extended and transformed into a home office and music room, capitalising on the panoramic southern views over the valley. The floor area was doubled through an extension constructed entirely of timber frame, insulated with timber fibre to ensure both thermal efficiency and sound insulation for the music room. The project also introduced a glazed orangery with covered external area linked to the new porch, creating spaces that can be enjoyed throughout the year. The barn’s exterior was finished with thermally treated ash cladding, triple glazing, and new roof tiling.