The clients wished to update the external appearance of their house and give it a more rational and contemporary character that nevertheless references the original 1920s detailing. The existing rustic timber cladding will be replaced and a new single storey ground floor extension will create a large new contemporary kitchen, dining and family room. This new extension will allow extensive views over the gardens and downs to the South coast. The adjacent boot room and utility will be extended and replanned to create an easy informal side entrance to the house. A particular issue were the multiple levels linking the main house to the annexe that need to be smoothed out and rationalised creating more level access around the buildings.

Planning permission was gained from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in April 2020 and the scheme is currently being developed through the technical design.

The existing house plan consisted of a series of individual rooms that did not flow together well and none of which provided the large open family space that the clients wanted to have. The windows on the rear elevation that look over a wonderful view were too small and an existing conservatory blocked much of the light to the living space. At first floor the family required a main bedroom, dressing room and bathroom suite together with further more evenly sized bedrooms for the children.

The existing plan at both levels was redrawn to create a sense of openess and space without losing the character of the existing house.