Inglis Hall | Helyer Davies

Designing with Heritage in Mind

HD: The principles adopted during the project sought to preserve the historic core of the building, focusing interventions on later additions such as the barn and stable block. The original timber-framed hall house remains largely untouched, with works concentrated on areas of lesser heritage significance.

The proposed rear extension is modest in scale and deliberately subordinate to the historic structure. It uses vertical timber cladding and zinc roofing, ensuring a clear visual distinction between old and new. This approach reflects a philosophy of contextual sensitivity, aligning with the client brief and aspirations for the project.

IH: This Grade II listed house is an expression of the owner’s passion for heritage, for craftsmanship, and for creating a historic home that feels authentic yet ready for modern living.

There’s a wealth of character here. Low, timeworn ceiling beams lend a sense of intimacy and comfort. Wide window sills catch the shifting light, and every threshold tells a story of careful making. For the clients, it was all about honouring the organic honesty of the house while creating a seamless flow between the old and new. Collaborating with Helyer Davies, we set out to design a thoughtful, open-plan kitchen and dining space that feels as natural as it does inviting.

Craft and Character

HD: Internally, the project restores character through material integrity and craftsmanship. Modern flitch beams have been replaced with oak trusses, and unsympathetic finishes were removed in favour of more traditional materials such as lime mortar. These choices enhance the building’s historic character.

The use of modern materials in the new extension, such as crittall-style windows and externally exposed steelwork, reinforces the concept of an evolving architectural language. The overhanging canopy provides contemporary clean lines which sensitively contrasts with the historic cottage to ground the new extension in the 21st Century.

IH: The approach to this kitchen design was rooted in authenticity. Every line, every detail, guided by an unwavering respect for character and traditional craft.

The design revolves around purposeful spaces where movement feels intuitive, and every activity finds its place. It’s not just about order, it’s about creating a space where preparation, cooking, serving, and gathering flow effortlessly. Practicality sits quietly alongside beauty, with concealed storage and tactile surfaces ensuring the space is always functional and welcoming.

Material choices were made with care. Natural materials, crafted the traditional way, were paired with contemporary solutions to create a space that feels grounded yet impactful. Smooth flat-panel Fenix in earthy Rosso Namib was chosen to play beautifully against the texture of raw oak, blending warmth with precision.

Creative Collaboration: Architect and Kitchen Designer

HD: One of the most enriching aspects of any project is the collaborative relationship between Helyer Davies Architects and other designers. During the project we engaged with Inglis Hall in a creative dialogue to elevate the design and functionality of the main family living space.

The kitchen - housed within the newly extended barn - was conceived not just as a functional space, but as a central architectural element to the family home. By involving Inglis Hall early in the process, the team was able to integrate cabinetry, lighting, and spatial flow into the architectural concept. This avoided the common pitfall of post-design retrofitting and instead resulted in a space that feels cohesive, and tailored to the client’s lifestyle.

The collaboration allowed for shared innovation: the architect shaped the volume and material palette, while the kitchen designer contributed to the tactile and ergonomic experience of the space. Together, they ensured that the kitchen was not only beautiful and practical, but also respectful of the building’s heritage and proportions.

This kind of partnership exemplifies how interdisciplinary collaboration can add value without clashing—when guided by shared principles and open communication.

IH: Early collaboration is crucial to the success of any project, especially when working on a building of historical significance like this one. It was a true pleasure to partner with Helyer Davies, whose expertise, ethos, and values aligned seamlessly with our own and those of the client.

An inclusive approach to the design process fosters a strong partnership between client and architect, ensuring that the journey not only meets listed planning and heritage requirements but also fulfils the unique desires, needs, and aspirations of the owners.

Equally important is the thoughtful selection of materials, choices that respect the building’s character while accommodating the practical demands of a busy family. These decisions are best made through collaborative discussions, not in isolation.

The resulting design strikes a harmonious balance between heritage and innovation, seamlessly blending tradition and bespoke craftsmanship with modern functionality.

Sustainability and Long-Term Thinking

HD: Despite the constraints of working with a listed building, the project incorporates a range of sustainable strategies. These include breathable insulation upgrades, low-impact landscaping, and the use of natural materials. This reflects a broader commitment to environmental responsibility, aligning with an ethos of creating architecture that is both beautiful and enduring.

IH: From design to making, everything is done with purpose and care.

Locally sourced natural materials were used wherever possible to reduce shipping and transport. Hand selecting oak planks for every project, we look for unique character rather than uniformity. This demands an understanding of timber, recognising that beauty lies in individuality. By choosing and using boards others might overlook, we reduce waste and honour the material fully.

Along with the tactile honesty of raw oak, we opt for materials such as Fenix - chosen not only for how it quietly complements the oak’s surface but for its excellent environmental credentials.

HD: This project exemplifies how contemporary architecture can engage meaningfully with heritage and collaboration. Through careful design, material sensitivity, and interdisciplinary teamwork, we have delivered a scheme that enhances the building’s usability while safeguarding its historic and environmental value.

IH: Oak’s natural beauty, texture and raw aesthetic, combined with its traditional uses within the architecture of the space, meant integrating our cabinetry into the scheme created a seamless flow from old to new.