London-based Prest Vale Architects has artfully extended a Grade II-listed rectory near the Blenheim Estate in Oxfordshire. This renovation enhances the 17th-century building with a stunning stone extension crowned by a sundial, seamlessly continuing the historical gabled roofline.
Cotswolds Rectory Extension: A Harmonious Expansion
Rich in history, the site includes an 18th-century stone barn. The architects aimed to unify and expand the existing structures as part of the renovation, converting the barn into a charming guest annexe, and redesigning the garden to enhance views and light.
“It was about reconnecting the house with its landscape,” explained Richard Prest, co-founder of the studio. The project not only integrates into the topography but also enhances the home’s relationship with its environment.
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The original rectory facade is characterized by three Cotswold stone gables, accented with a weathervane and chimney. Continuing this classic design, the stone facade incorporates these elements while featuring a bold new gable with a sundial.
The interior holds a kitchen and dining area, complemented by a study with expansive views framed by lush planting. The once-blocked southern views are now open, thanks to a garden redesign by landscape architect Todd Longstaffe-Gowan that includes a traditional ha-ha, separating the garden and adjoining field.
Design Continuity and the Cotswolds Rectory Extension
The extension not only forges a connection to the barn, forming a cozy courtyard ideal for evening dinners, but it also adds a new chapter to the rectory’s storied silhouette. “The sculptural sundial offers a playful nod to its South-facing perspective,” said co-founder Michael Vale.
To see a different take on integrating modern design with historical contexts, discover Highgate’s Thirsk Cottage Corten steel extension which breathes new life into tradition.
Crafted from local Cotswold stone and chic white Portland stone, this modern architectural project respects its historic roots while introducing clean, contemporary lines.
A Visionary Interior
Inside the barn conversion, visitors are welcomed into an expansive, double-height space that reveals the striking structure of a new Douglas fir roof. A mezzanine balcony provides sweeping views over the living areas below.
Both the rectory and barn share access to a serene pool area, replete with a stone terrace and an elegant oak pool house—offering a perfect retreat.
“Using Portland stone, Cotswold stone, and oak, we rooted the extension in its surroundings while giving it a distinctive, contemporary character,” added Prest.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What architectural style does the Cotswolds rectory extension follow?
The Cotswolds rectory extension follows a design that continues the historical gabled roofline, integrating traditional elements like Cotswold stone gables, a weathervane, and a chimney with a new bold gable featuring a sundial.
How did the garden redesign enhance the rectory?
The garden redesign enhanced the rectory by opening up once-blocked southern views and incorporating a traditional ha-ha, which separates the garden from the adjoining field.
What materials were used in the rectory extension?
The rectory extension was crafted from local Cotswold stone, chic white Portland stone, and oak, grounding the project in its historic surroundings while giving it a contemporary character.
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