Challenging Property Redesign Completed by Trevaskis Design

South West based architects Trevaskis Design Solutions have completed an interesting – and challenging – design and build project redeveloping a very rundown cottage on the outskirts of Alton, Hampshire.

With the Covid-19 pandemic many homeowners in the UK have had to reconsider their living space, with many using the time to redevelop, redesign and extend their homes.

A Historic Building Re-Imagined

Originally built in the 1800s, the property was an old hop drying house for the inn next door and came with a number of very unique challenges.

To create more space within the property a cantilever bedroom upstairs was designed. This extension meant the property was transformed from a two to a three-bedroom property, making it much more suitable

Trying to change an old end terrace cottage into a modern family home while keeping key features from the past such as the fireplace, chimney and door frames didn’t give much scope for inaccurate designs. Perfect measurements and fitting in storage and utilities were key to making this project work.

A Dangerous Staircase Repurposed

Another challenge that this project faced was a change of layout with a staircase. The staircase in question was dangerous and narrow, however legal regulations meant that a gap of 2m was required between the bottom step and the ceiling, which wasn’t possible taking into account the height of the property.

Trevaskis Design Solutions had to find a solution and managed to work with the building inspectors to find an exemption to the rules to make them safer. Following consultations, it was agreed that the new stairs were less dangerous than the last set even though they weren’t strictly following the initial building regulations.

Happy Homeowners

The property owners were delighted with the refurbishments. Rob said of the work undertaken: “Trevaskis Design Solutions have helped us transform a dated and slightly dangerous property into a liveable family home.”