A Grade II listed cottage in splendid rural isolation was in great need of modernisation and extension but without losing the historic character of the building. The project involved a ‘roof off’ whole house refurbishment, reconfiguration and restoration as well as the addition of a contemporary kitchen/living room to the rear and new garage/studio annex. We were also retained to design the interiors and furniture including a new bespoke kitchen, bathrooms, contemporary staircase and storage and we worked with local craftsmen to help realise the project on site. A simple but elegant palette of oak and polished concrete floors was introduced to emphasise a sense of openness and continuity through the ground floor reception rooms which are now flooded with natural light from new roof lights above the staircase and first floor landing.