This renovation and extension transforms a mid-19th-century Schoolmaster’s House, originally designed by Gothic Revival architect William Butterfield. Built in the 1850s as part of Archdeacon John Sandford’s educational initiative, the building showcases Butterfield’s hallmark use of polychrome brickwork and crafted detail. Research supported by the Alvechurch Historical Society, The Bromsgrove Society, and the Hive Archives – together with the discovery of original drawings – revealed the building’s original fabric and informed our design strategy. The scheme balances historic sensitivity with contemporary living. Unsympathetic late-20th-century alterations were removed to restore clarity, while new interventions create light, proportion, and connection to the garden. The extension draws inspiration from Butterfield’s brick patterns, its distinct yet referential form enhanced by a frameless corner window. At the centre of the design, the former courtyard becomes the heart of the home. Original brickwork and an arched door are revealed, their patina preserved, with natural stone flooring referencing the historic surface. Elsewhere, a historic entrance has been reinstated, and a brick arch within the chimney exposed, now closed with weathered copper. High-performance insulation and triple glazing improve comfort and energy efficiency. The result is both restoration and reinvention – a respectful dialogue between past and present, creating a home rooted in history and ready for the future.

We designed a built in banquette bench seat in the kitchen diner of our Herne Hill project, had it upholstered in a faux leather and added lots of scatter cushions as well as bamboo blinds for cosiness

This is an example of a contemporary kitchen/dining room in London with white walls, light hardwood flooring, a wood burning stove and beige floors.

The warm hues of the wall and dark wood cabinets are off-set by the cool zinc worktop and splashback. Traditional wood dining chairs create a homely atmosphere in this country kitchen

The large kitchen and dining room opening out onto the garden at the lower ground floor. The head height was increased by a metre in order to match the upper ground floor. The space is greeted with an expanse of light and greenery, out through the 3m high Crittall style doors. The rough hewn garden steps lead you up to the original garden level and a purpose built fire place at the end of the garden, the perfect space for entertaining on sunny evening.

This striking modern kitchen combines bold textures and layered finishes to create a space that’s both contemporary and infused with vintage charm. Brick detailing adds warmth, while black-and-white geometric tiles bring a retro twist. Sleek black Technomat cabinetry is paired with black Tempal Caesarstone worktops, and glass-fronted cabinets introduce contrast and lightness, complementing the 1950s-inspired bar area.

Photo of a medium sized beach style kitchen/dining room in Cardiff with white walls, light hardwood flooring, white floors, panelled walls and a feature wall.

The spacious kitchen; the lines of the circular skylight are echoed in the arched doorway.
Inspiration for a contemporary kitchen/dining room in London with white walls, light hardwood flooring and beige floors.

Spring Water Barn is a beautifully curated renovation that blends rustic charm with refined, contemporary design. This bespoke kitchen and interior project features handcrafted cabinetry, quartz worktops, and a harmonious mix of shaker and handleless styles. Set in the Kent countryside, every detail was thoughtfully considered to enhance the home's character while delivering modern functionality. From the warm natural tones to the tailored storage solutions, the design reflects timeless elegance and practical living—perfect for a rural retreat with a luxury finish.

Airy, classic, vintage inspired spacious kitchen. Featuring large bespoke wave bench seating.
Photo of a medium sized victorian kitchen/dining room in Other with dark hardwood flooring.

Design ideas for a medium sized contemporary kitchen/dining room in London with white walls, light hardwood flooring, brown floors and feature lighting.

This is an example of a modern kitchen/dining room in London with white walls, concrete flooring, grey floors, exposed beams and a wood ceiling.

The fireplace was opened up to relocate the oven, allowing then to be able to add a dining area in this kitchen.
Inspiration for a medium sized eclectic kitchen/dining room in Other with ceramic flooring, orange floors and exposed beams.

A Seamless Blend of Heritage and Modern Living
Inspiration for a farmhouse kitchen/dining room in Buckinghamshire with beige walls, grey floors and brick walls.

Contemporary, minimalist kitchen space with scandi feel. White backsplash tiles and white kitchen.
This is an example of a medium sized contemporary kitchen/dining room in London with white walls and light hardwood flooring.

Vintage oval G Plan dining table with mixed mid-century chairs under an Italian glass pendant lamp. Glazed drinks cabinet with slatted oak base anchors the living space beyond.

Photo of a rural kitchen/dining room in London with beige walls and a timber clad ceiling.

The kitchen is set on a lowered plane, aligning daily life with the garden beyond. This subtle shift in level creates a layered, multi-planar layout, enhancing spatial depth and connection. Exposed timber, oak joinery and soft light ground the space, blurring boundaries between inside and out.

brass cabinet hardware, kitchen diner, parquet floor, wooden table
Eclectic kitchen/dining room in Gloucestershire with yellow walls, no fireplace, grey floors and wallpapered walls.