The house is Grade II Listed, built in the 18th Century and located in the Historic Rochester Conservation Area and the Rochester Castle and Cathedral Precinct. Originally a grand double bay-fronted three-storey structure, half the house was demolished when mutinous soldiers burnt it down during the Food Riots of 1796. Since then the house has grown into a collage of adaptations and additions. Our client purchased the property as a private home and approached us with the idea of reinstalling the second floor, providing a ‘pleasure lounge’ to enjoy stunning views of Rochester Castle and the River Medway. Given the protected historic views and proximity to Rochester Castle, the local Conservation Officer warned that listed building approval for a contemporary roof extension would be feasible but challenging. We worked closely with our client, with Medway Council’s Planning and Conservation officers and with Historic England, to formulate an approved plan. The existing front masonry façade will be extended up by another storey, knitting into the surrounding roofscape and repeating the first-floor windows and dentilled cornice. Behind this new brick façade will be a contemporary second floor with an M-shaped roof, an open gable, and floor-to-ceiling picture windows and bi-fold doors opening on to a sun deck with spectacular views.