Arrow View is a bespoke contemporary extension project completed in summer of 2021 by award winning Winchester based architects AR Design Studio. Situated within the idyllic countryside of Herefordshire, close to the Welsh border, the original cottage dates back to pre-19th century. The new extension connects the cottage with an adjacent annex, replacing two garden rooms that were impractical for use throughout the year.

The clients, a retired aviation engineer and landscape designer, made the move from Kent to Hereford in 2018. They were drawn to the charm of the pretty house and gardens, but the existing house and extensions did not give them a comfortable living space to facilitate the much desired connection with the garden on one side of the house and the stunning landscape views to the other.

The clients approached AR Design Studio not long after purchasing the property with a brief to replace the extensions with a light and airy open plan living, kitchen, dining space.

AR approached the project with a delicate bridge between the house and annex. Taking inspiration from the client’s background as an aviation engineer a lightweight wing shaped roof was proposed, supported at either end by the existing stone house and annex. Below this, large sliding glass doors enclose the space and give the sense of the roof floating while allowing natural light to spill in. The glazing blurs the distinction between inside and out while framing the picturesque views over the River Arrow and neighbouring farmsteads beyond. Muted interior tones act as a backdrop to the lush rural setting, ensuring focus is retained on the latter.

There was an existing change in level from one side of the house to the other, with the rear courtyard garden siting significantly above the level of the extension. The new angular roof opens the space up to the courtyard and enhances the visual connection to it. This level change also dictates the interior layout, with the living area able to spill out onto an external terrace and the kitchen looking out onto the more private garden at the rear of the house.

This lightweight addition has given a new heart to the centre of the house. One which provides a space for modern living with strong connections to the surrounding landscape and gardens that can be enjoyed all year round.

‘We were keen to work with an innovative practice who could realise our aspirations for a modern kitchen/ living room that would provide the feeling of inside/outside living but remain sensitive to the existing old house and the rural location.

We were bowled over by the initial concept and the finished extension has totally exceeded our expectations. The room itself is light an airy and has become the heart of the home. The large sliding glass doors at the front mean we can enjoy the garden and views beyond whatever the weather whilst the rear terrace is intimate and sheltered and is a fabulous place to sit and enjoy a glass of wine in the evening sun!’

‘We are really enjoying the new AR designed space, it’s working well for us’

— Client

Scheme: Extension

Location: Herefordshire

Completion: July 2021

Photographer: Paul Carter – photodesign.co.uk