Conservation & Heritage Issue 49 October 2025 - Flipbook - Page 32
contemporary. Then, bringing together the two main
buildings with a high spec glass link - connecting two
different geometries, materials, load responsibilities and
floor levels, to function and flow as one. On the ground,
Ashton encountered a number of challenges, a lack of
structural integrity with the thatch roof precariously
balanced on deteriorated posts after years of damp and
rot build up. This problem was met with a careful process
of structural sequencing, re-appropriating the load on a
bay-by-bay basis. Specialist bespoke ironmongery was
made to match the original, and replacement split pale
timber boards were hand selected to re-clad the thatch.
Studio Cottage is a true balance of realism and idealism,
it remains a modest, highly crafted, hand-made building,
but is now a thermally efficient, contemporary and
comfortable family home.
This project was a RIBA Regional Winner South West
and Wessex 2025.
All images courtesy of Agnese Sanvito
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