BakerBrown has completed the renovation of Bank Cottage, a modest 19th-century semi-detached property situated in a conservation area at the head of a valley in the South Downs. The practice was commissioned to implement a series of interventions to enhance the building’s thermal performance and improve accessibility throughout the cottage.

In addition to the cottage renovation, the project included the refurbishment and extension of a 19th-century barn annexe. The aim was to transform the barn into a functional home office and music room, capitalising on the panoramic southern views over the valley and providing a range of sheltered spaces for year-round enjoyment of the gardens.

The renovated cottage has achieved carbon-negative status in its operation, marking a significant improvement from its previous energy performance rating of EPC E to EPC A. Key upgrades to the cottage include the installation of level access through a new front porch extension, a redesigned staircase to better accommodate elderly residents, and a comprehensive “fabric first” retrofit.

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