Bakers Farm
Brief
Bakers Farm Oast, originally a working oast house for drying hops, was converted into two residential units in the 1980s. Oast houses are designated as ‘Local Heritage Assets’ by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and therefore retain significant historical value. We were commissioned to extend the dwelling towards the rear and to specifically to improve the internal flow of the spaces, removing the constraints that older builders so often retain when converted.
Response
The client desired a contemporary extension, a design approach that typically poses few challenges. However, given the property’s location within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we were required to limit the extent of glazing to preserve the integrity of the dark skies. Our design embraced a modern aesthetic while drawing inspiration from the surrounding agricultural vernacular, which received positive feedback from the Local Authority. To improve the internal flow, we repositioned the kitchen to the rear of the property, thereby creating a focal point upon entry and optimizing the scenic views.
Factfile
- Category: Residential / Extension / Remodel / Heritage Asset / AONB
- Location: Goudhurst, Kent
- Budget or size: £250,000
- Contractors & Consultants: Bridgehurst Builders, IQ glazing, Boffe Design
