HIDDEN GEM
DORSET
Approved - Bungalow Extenion
Situated in the town of Corfe Mullen, the current owners of this property were eager to expand their residence to meet the future needs of their family. Previous occupants had added an unattractive single-story extension to the rear, featuring mismatched windows and materials, along with both a flat roof and a shallow pitch roof. Although a garage existed on the side of the house, it remained unused by the new owners. The welcoming front retained the original home features, offering ample parking, perimeter access, and a spacious rear garden.
Our task was to design a solution that involved replacing the garage with a split-level addition to the side, extending into the rear garden and seamlessly connecting with the existing extension. The incongruent roof over the existing extension would be replaced with a flat roof, ensuring a cohesive look between the new and existing sections. A small extension on the opposite side of the house completed the additions. Together, these new spaces created a new entrance lobby with coat and shoe storage, leading into a formal living room with a heightened ceiling. Ascending steps led to a luxurious open-plan kitchen and dining area, accompanied by a separate utility and toilet. All habitable rooms featured direct access to the rear terrace via bifold doors, fostering a connection with nature during warmer months. While the front maintained the original features, a modern touch was added to sustain the inviting atmosphere.
Given that the design fell just outside permitted development rights, a planning application was submitted. Despite objections from the Town Council, citing the design as too modern, the local planning officer, well-versed in such projects and acknowledging its proximity to permitted development, gladly approved the scheme. We were delighted to receive approval from the Local Planning Department, affirming that the design was well-suited to its location. It highlights the importance for Town and Parish Councils to embrace modern architecture and understand the planning process, ensuring they contribute positively to the evolution of their areas rather than resisting change. Serving the residents entails promoting and welcoming progress, avoiding being stuck in outdated perspectives.
