Contemporary extension and facelift to 1970's chalet property, Henley-On-Thames, Oxfordshire
The UK is filled with developer-built houses from the mid-twentieth century that often fail to meet modern needs or aesthetic standards. At Tait Architects, we believe contemporary design can transform these homes, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal.
We rebranded this 1970s home set on a prominent corner plot in Henley-on-Thames.
The clients loved their home's location but found the property dated, uninspiring, and lacking in space. They needed more accommodation and a garage, alongside a design that would set their home apart and make it a joy to return to.
The transformation of this property included a complete external makeover in addition to increased space and accommodation internally, making the home a source of pride for its owners and a point of admiration for visitors and passers-by.
Our plans included a single-storey front and side extension, providing a garage and new space, while enhancing the overall property.
Key features included a dormer addition to enlarge an existing bedroom and improve the home's front facade, a covered entrance canopy integrating the porch and garage for visual appeal and weather protection, and exterior cladding with vertical open-boarded Siberian Larch timber, treated to weather naturally to a silvery grey.
The use of new materials, such as fibre-cement roof slates, white render over red brick, a bright yellow front door, and grey aluminium windows and doors, contributed to a modern look. The project focused on more than just adding space; it aimed to rejuvenate the property's exterior, bringing it into the twenty-first century.
Our project went beyond mere expansion; it aimed to breathe new life into the property's exterior, bringing it into the modern era.
"Tait Architects has worked with our ideas and produced an exciting design to remodel our tired 1970s home. It got through planning the first time, with hugely positive comments and praise from our neighbours. We are all excited to see what the finished product will look like. We cannot rate Tait Architects highly enough." - Client, upon reception of planning permission
We are thrilled to have received such positive feedback from our clients, who expressed their satisfaction with the initial design and again with the final result.
"We are really happy with how the house has finished up looking. All Tait Architects' suggestions were really effective: vertical timber cladding, the tall window into the porch, the outdoor storm porch, and the high window into the garage. We love it, and have had literally hundreds of positive comments from neighbours and passers-by. Thank you so much." - Client, upon project completion
We are also grateful for the commendation from the local planning department, affirming "the design and quality of the proposed development".
This feedback underscores the success of our project in revitalizing a tired 1970s home into a modern, aesthetically pleasing dwelling that brings joy to its owners and community alike.
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