Tucked away in the quintessentially English landscape of the Cotswolds lies a property with a rich history – the Coach House. Once a functional outbuilding serving the nearby historic residence Three Gables, this structure has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the sensitive restoration efforts of Design Storey Architects.
The Coach House's past is etched in the very fabric of the building, with its distinctive Cotswold stone construction and industrial, utilitarian origins. However, over time, successive renovations and additions had eroded the structure's inherent character, resulting in a more cottage-like appearance that belied its true purpose. But now, the Coach House has been given a new lease on life, with the architects skillfully restoring its original industrial heritage. Gone are the incongruous dormer windows and the haphazard additions that had once obscured the building's utilitarian roots. In their place, the Coach House has reclaimed its former glory, evoking the rugged charm of its bygone days as a functional outbuilding.
The journey of the Coach House began long before the current owners came into the picture. Interestingly, the previous owners were friends of the clients, and the couple had been involved in the initial refurbishment of the building before deciding to purchase it themselves. This personal connection to the property undoubtedly informed the design process, as the architects sought to honour the building's history while catering to the young couple's lifestyle and aspirations.
At the heart of the project was a desire to restore the Coach House's industrial heritage, which had been gradually eroded over time. Drawing inspiration from an historic map that depicted a "Fourth quadrant" and range of outbuildings to the south of the building, Design Storey introduced two new glass box structures to the principal elevation. These light-filled additions not only improved the sense of space within the cottage, but also created a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding walled garden.
The design team's attention to detail is evident throughout the transformation. Carefully considered structural solutions, such as the slender column in the dining space and the steel jambes in the boot room, ensure that the new interventions complement the existing building without overwhelming it. The limited material palette of zinc and handmade bricks, which complement the Cotswold stone, further reinforces the harmonious blend of old and new.
One of the standout features of the Coach House is the way it integrates with the surrounding landscape. The architects have masterfully created a sense of the garden enveloping the interior, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. This connection not only enhances the overall experience but also speaks to the homeowners' appreciation for the vibrant lifestyle that Chipping Campden has to offer.
Sustainability was also a key consideration in the design process. By ensuring the building's fabric was of high quality, the team was able to mitigate heat loss, particularly from the existing stove walls, making the Coach House not only a beautiful space but also an energy-efficient one.
The transformation of the Coach House is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and a deep respect for a building's heritage. By carefully balancing the past and the present, the architects at Design Storey have created a space that celebrates the Cotswolds' architectural legacy while catering to the modern needs and aspirations of its occupants. It is a project that, much like the region it calls home, is both timeless and truly captivating.
