This project delivers a carefully considered two-storey side and rear extension to a locally listed house situated on one of Chelmsford’s most historically significant streets. From the outset, the intervention was guided by a thorough understanding of the heritage asset and its contribution to the wider streetscape. Demolition was kept to an absolute minimum, ensuring that the historic envelope of the host building remained largely intact and that the extension read as a respectful addition rather than an invasive alteration.

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A structural glazed link forms the point of connection between old and new. This lightweight element maintains a clear visual separation, safeguards the legibility of the original house, and introduces natural light into the newly created deep plan. The transparency of the link also provides a moment of pause between the historic structure and the contemporary volume, framing views and subtly signalling the transition between architectural eras.

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The host building itself underwent a sensitive programme of repair and refurbishment. Historic fabric was retained, with features such as joinery, brickwork, and period details conserved, restored, or enhanced to reinstate the building’s architectural integrity.

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In deliberate contrast, the new extension is expressed as a crisp, modern volume. Constructed with contemporary technologies and detailing, it is characterised by clean edges, uncluttered façades, and a disciplined absence of overhanging elements or decorative embellishment. This clarity of form emphasises its secondary status while providing a calm, confident counterpart to the historic house.

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The duality between old and new is further reinforced through a carefully developed colour and material strategy. Muted tones and natural finishes complement the warmth and texture of the historic building, while subtle shifts in colour distinguish the contemporary addition without competing for attention. The result is a balanced composition in which the historic fabric is celebrated and the new architecture enhances rather than imitates it.

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Together, these elements create a refined, respectful, and legible extension that protects the significance of the heritage asset while providing a functional and elegantly modern living environment.

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as Associate Architect at Arcady Architects