Property description

The subject building is a semi-detached Edwardian dwelling located at the edge of a village overlooking the open countryside. The property is not listed but considered a non-designated heritage asset which is further augmented by its inclusion in the Sharnbrook Conservation Area. Accommodation over three floors comprises of three bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen, and utility. Towards the rear of the property a former garage has been converted to a family room with a separate lobby space. There is also a small fourth bedroom currently used as a study under the slope of the roof. The plot benefits from good levels of screening and containment to the street defined by a low dwarf brick wall with black painted iron railings and hedge.

Historic / aesthetic / communal value

The dwelling was built in 1909 for an Edwardian family to enjoy the luxury of rural North Bedfordshire living. The property is constructed of brick with stone dressings and a plain tile roof. Its notable features include an ornate arched gable above a two storey bay window, crested ridge tiles with finials, bonnet hips, bands of decorative club tiles on the roof slope, arched entrance surround and tall sash windows.

Evidential value

Architecturally, the properties are a good example of early 20th century housing for the prosperous upper working classes that could afford domestic help. There was a huge demand for large homes and country houses that were close to railway stations for an easy commute to the city. The Edwardians built big, solid homes with light, airy rooms and the detailing was a cut above what anyone was used to at the time. No evidence of features associated with the domestic servants quarters remain intact.

Proposal

The owners sought permission to demolish an existing conservatory at the mid-point along the northeast elevation to erect a single storey extension for a family orientated kitchen diner with better views and access to the garden. Associated works would include a screen wall to provide greater privacy and security. We proposed an L shaped plan that would project from the side of the original house that would be constructed of materials to generally match the existing.

The conservation commented that the extension references architectural features to the host building and relates well to the architectural interest of the building. The proposed gate and internal wall at the end of the driveway would appear suitably appropriate and not have an adverse affect on the character and appearance of the area, amenity of neighbouring properties or highways safety.

Guidance consulted when approaching the design

• National Planning Policy Framework (2021)
• National Planning Practice Guidance (PPG)
• Supplementary Planning guidance and documents
• Bedford Borough Local Plan (2030) Policies: 28S (Place making) 29 (Design Quality and Principles), 30 (Design Impacts), 31 (Access impacts), 41S (Historic environment and heritage assets)
• Sharnbrook Neighbourhood plan (2021) Policies: S1 Design principles, S7 Parking, S11 Protection of heritage assets
• Residential Extensions, New Dwelling & Small Infill Developments design guidance
• RENDSID (2000) Part 1, Design Codes for extensions: E1 (Basic shape) E2 (Detailed character) E3 - E4 (Space around building & car parking provision E5 (Privacy) E6 (Daylight and sunlight)

Discoveries that caused the initial design to be revised

A glazed gable end with bi-fold doors was added to the design by the owners to maximise the views and access to the rear garden.