Residential News

RPA Architects were recently appointed to design and oversee the renovation of a substantial but totally unmodernised country residence occupying 50 acres in rural South Oxfordshire.

Our services included the implementation of significant internal alteration and reconfiguration as well as the sympathetic integration of stunning contemporary additions at each of three floor levels. Externally new sports facilities including a swimming pool and tennis court completed the reinvention of the property as a comfortable but stylish refurbished and modernised period home fully suited to family living. 

The building had to be re-roofed in its entirety and this provided the opportunity to insulate to modern standards. Rotten windows were replaced and again this allowed the introduction of thermally efficient glazing. A number of sustainable resource solutions were also incorporated and all mechanical and electrical services had to be replaced. 

With all new plant centralised and located at cellar level, the innovative reconfiguration of concealed roof voids provided three new light and airy second floor guest suites at relatively low cost, each connected to a secondary internal stair via a fully glazed link. The introduction of two large glazed lanterns transformed the main staircase and core circulation areas below which were previously dark and uninviting. At ground and first floor, contemporary extensions featuring significant areas of thermally efficient glazing together with Bath stone features and zinc roof cladding complimented the Victorian mix of red and blue bricks and roof tiles.

Sensitive renovation techniques featured in the renewal of failed materials throughout the project with RPA procuring all specialist contracts and coordinating their work alongside that of a general contractor,  implementing the whole through full project management services to completion.

Victorian Country House

Planning permission has been secured for the extension and renovation of this attractive Victorian house with seven bedrooms set in extensive grounds between Oxford and Henley-on-Thames.

The property has high ceilings, deep cornices, feature fireplaces and well proportioned accommodation on three floors but is in need of complete refurbishment. Initial works have already been completed, including re-tiling of the entire roof (to incorporate modern insulation materials), the replacement/refurbishment of rainwater goods and the repair/installation of new internal shutters and window sashes to provide double glazing within timber frames which match the original period design.

Second phase works will include structural alterations internally, modified reception areas and the provision of additional bathrooms. At ground floor a large kitchen/family room with a fully glazed dining area will be constructed with additional bedroom accommodation on each of two floors above. All heating, plumbing and electrical services will be replaced and solar thermal domestic water heating will be provided along with a natural water borehole and underfloor heating.

Georgian Town House

RPA have been appointed to oversee the restoration and refurbishment of an elegant Grade II Listed Georgian Town House located in the centre of Abingdon and near to the River Thames. Built in around 1725 and full of original features the house has fallen into substantial disrepair. The project will involve sympathetic and non-intrusive techniques to bring about its faithful restoration, breathing new life into the property and allowing its re-use as a modern family home.

Victorian Farm House

This substantial Victorian home stands in 3.5 acres and has River Thames frontage. It is located within a conservation area and designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty but has been empty for many years and has fallen into significant disrepair. We have been appointed to oversee its complete renovation. Survey work is in hand and designs will be prepared in January 2010.

Riverside Victorian Villa and Cottage

This elegant Victorian home has River Thames frontage and an adjacent cottage annexe. RPA Architects have been appointed to oversee its renovation and extension in order to provide a substantial and modernised family home. A full measured survey is being undertaken and design work will begin in January 2010.