GOSWELLS
A Sensitive Extension to a Historic Home
PROJECT TITLE: Goswells
LOCATION: South Oxfordshire
COMPLETION DATE: September, 2024
PROJECT TYPE: Grade II Listed Renovation
ARCHITECT: Cutler Architecture
DESIGNER: Customer/Self designed
Goswells is a mid-17th-century Grade II listed home, featuring a traditional oak frame with masonry infill, clay tile roofing, and historic casement windows. While the house has been carefully restored, its historic layout did not accommodate modern living standards. The existing kitchen and family room were in a cramped lean-to extension, limiting the interaction between the house and its beautifully designed garden. The goal of this project was to create a contemporary kitchen and family space that seamlessly integrates with the landscape while respecting the historic fabric of the building.
DESIGN AND APPROACH
The extension was envisioned as a ‘glass pavilion in the garden,’ ensuring an open and fluid relationship between the interior living space and the garden. To preserve the integrity of the historic rooms, the kitchen remained outside the original structure while being redesigned to enhance functionality and openness.
KEY FEATURES
Sensitive Integration - The extension respects the proportions and materials of the original house while introducing a contemporary glass structure that enhances natural light and garden views.
Kitchen Remodelling - The north wall was opened to connect the kitchen and family room, providing a social cooking and dining experience. A new hand painted kitchen was installed with handmade features such as the bronze handles.
Structural Foundations - Foundations were carefully excavated to minimise disruption to tree roots while ensuring structural stability. A slab system using breathable materials from Mike Wye was installed to provide uniform support across the footprint.
Terrace - A flush deck was designed to align with the internal floor finish, constructed from durable limestone. This material choice ensures longevity and minimal maintenance.
SITE CONSIDERATIONS AND PLANNING CONSTRAINTS
Heritage Considerations - As a Grade II listed property, careful attention was given to materials, structural interventions, and design language to ensure compliance with heritage regulations.
Environmental Sensitivity - Located within a settlement boundary but outside a conservation area, the project adhered to best practices for tree protection and sustainable construction.
