Before and After Design: Renovating a Bungalow

"The existing building was an uninspiring but pretty bungalow in a semi-rural village in the heart of Cheshire," says Keith Summers, the architect behind this remarkable remodelling project. Keith’s brief was to transform the postwar two bedroom bungalow into a spacious two storey, three bedroom home.

"The largest challenge was keeping the building envelope within the constraints of green belt planning policy, while also maximising the space," he explains. "We have managed to achieve this through clever roof design." The steeply pitched dormer roof minimizes massing, allowing additional space to be gained inside, without the exterior dominating the site or the open countryside beyond.

BEFORE: 1. Front. 2. Rear

The old roof was lifted off, leaving the external walls exposed; insulation was then added to the existing structure and also within the new rear extension and new roof. "The work has allowed us to bring this postwar house up to current Building Regulations standards — it’s now much more efficient," comments Keith.

The façade is traditional. Keith used reclaimed brick slips to clad the existing dark-brick plinth wall and a new chimney was built in a matching brick. "It was much more economical and practical to use the brick slips for the plinth than removing the existing brickwork," he says. The rich colour of the brickwork complements the clay tile roof. An entrance step and enclosure, designed to match the plinth, completes the façade. "We did think about a porch, but the overhang of the eaves forms a canopy."

Keith’s clients wanted a balcony at the rear to make the most of the countryside views: "Instead of bolting on a balcony, opening up the gable end has meant this feature has  become integral to the building," he explains. Rear glazing also fills the interiors with light.

"Remodelling has become much more prevalent over the last five years. Clever design can transform an existing house to suit modern living," Keith concludes.

1. Traditional Bricks

Reclaimed Cheshire brick slips were used to re-clad the plinth and chimney. It can, however, be difficult to find reclaimed bricks in adequate quantities. Traditional handmade bricks, such as the above ‘Batman blend’ by York Handmade Brick Company, are a good alternative (01347 838881; yorkhandmade.co.uk)

2. Clay Roof Tiles

Invest in clay roof tiles, which retain their colour (unlike manmade alternatives) but mellow to blend in with the surroundings. The above handmade clay tiles, from Tudor Roof Tile Company, are shown in a mixture of antique colours (01797 320202; tudorrooftiles.co.uk)

Keith Summers is Principal Architect at Munro Summers Architects (01925 299881 msaarchitects.co.uk)

Further Reading:

• Before and After Design: A Green Makeover 
• Extension and remodel of 1930s bungalow, Preston
• Bungalows: The Ultimate Design Guide