​Restoring character while creating contemporary living
The Thatched House in Chatham, Medway, is a beautifully restored 1930s Romantic Revival detached home overlooking the Hempstead Valley. Arts Architecture International was commissioned to design a substantial residential extension that would enhance the property’s functionality while preserving its distinctive architectural identity. The project included a new integrated double garage and utility room, an expansive open-plan kitchen and dining space, an extended living room, a luxurious master bedroom with a walk-in ensuite shower room, and an oak-framed conservatory. To ensure harmony with the original building, the two-storey extension was designed in the same architectural style, continuing the existing thatched roof into an felegant L-shaped form. Complementing this is a single-storey oak-framed living space with a flat roof terrace serving as a balcony for the master suite above. Inside, the master bedroom features an open vaulted ceiling and panoramic southeast-facing windows that maximise natural light and countryside views. Traditional materials including oak framing and lead roofing were carefully incorporated to reflect the heritage character of the home while introducing contemporary comfort and practicality. A comparable approach can be seen in our work on St. David’s House and Belmont, where careful alterations were developed to respect the character of the existing building. ​Contract Value: Approx. £170k Project Status: Completed in 2011
