The project was very much about balancing best conservation practice with the clients brief. The building is of historical significance and therefore DMVF had to consider how the new aspects impacted on the old house. Initially we felt this approach may have restrained our proposal but as it turned out, it actually enhanced the project.   The design is well considered, and the end-result is quirky, classic and contemporary! Our approach was to extend to the side of the 2-storey rear return rather than extend directly onto the back of the main house. This created a courtyard which in turn, allows daylight to penetrate into the rear rooms  of the main house.We designed a glass link to one side of the courtyard that links the extension to the main house and also marks the break between the old and the new. By using glass, we can still read the rear of the original main house which is a conservation bonus! One element that the client loves is the view from the main house through the courtyard and extension to the rear garden beyond…we have this on both floors.