The Old Rectory

The Old Rectory: Extension to listed building

A strong local reputation encouraged Mrs Coghlan to instruct The Martin Sewell Building Company in April 2004. Since then MSBC has become a friendly partner – completing an extension project, a new garage and a variety of maintenance works.

Although this Grade 2 listed building is very attractive, the kitchen area was too dark and missing a link to the outside ‘green space’. A modern part-glazed extension with tall windows and part-glazed roof was proposed and designed to provide a much needed family space as well as opening out the kitchen.

The extension has many interesting features, including the old external galletted flint wall as an internal feature. MSBC sourced beautiful tall timber windows with arched glazing beads from Canada to reflect and repeat this curved theme that runs through the original building. Importantly, MSBC was able to demonstrate to planners and building control an ability to build a structure that would meet tough energy efficiency requirements, despite the high percentage of glazed materials utilised.

Clear, straightforward communication and experienced craftsmen ensured a successful project, leading to an additional one – the design and build of a new detached garage that would blend in sympathetically. Feature panels of galletted flint work helped to achieve this, whilst other more standard details helped keep the project within budget.

"The extension work was undertaken according to plan and budget. The workers were entirely trustworthy and the quality of the work outstanding. A project manager was assigned to the project and he was always available responding promptly to any questions or concerns. I really had no idea what I was doing and was given sound and honest advice. The extension is much admired by visitors, especially because it is sympathetic to the style of the building and has preserved, as an internal feature, the 200 year-old flint galletting.

I have recommended the company to several of my friends and would definitely use them again.”

Mrs Coghlan