COMPLETED PROJECTS
Case Studies
"We contracted Luke as the Designer for our renovation and internal modifications of an old cottage in the New Forest. He did an excellent job. Initially took measurements, prepared as-built drawings, and developed plans for the renovations and modifications. He assisted us with a selection of builders from a shortlist and, in our absence overseas, conducted weekly site visits and reports during the work. He continued to support us with the project through to the end, including some issues arising after the building works were completed. We would be very happy to reccommend LRA"
We were appointed to help our client reimagine their cottage in the New Forest after they had previously been advised that extending or enlarging the property would be difficult due to its sensitive location.
Instead of seeing this as a limitation, we saw it as an opportunity to make the existing home work harder. The client explained the problems they were experiencing with the property, including poor storage, inefficient circulation, dark spaces, and areas that no longer suited the way they wanted to live. We listened carefully, assessed the existing building, and developed a series of design ideas that would improve the home without needing to extend the main cottage.
A major part of our role was helping the client visualise what was possible. We prepared detailed 2D drawings alongside 3D design work, allowing the client to clearly understand the proposed changes before committing to the next stage. This was particularly important as the project had a tight timeframe, with the client wanting builders to begin as soon as possible. We worked efficiently to produce the drawings and tender information within the required timescale, helping to keep the project moving.
One of the biggest improvements was the removal of two inefficient staircases and the design of a new bespoke staircase. This completely changed how the home worked, unlocking valuable space and allowing us to create improved storage, a walk-in wardrobe, and a larger bathroom. We also introduced rooflights to bring natural light into previously dark areas, designed bespoke joinery, improved room layouts, upgraded storage, and helped create a dedicated drying and utility storage area.
We also designed and managed the planning application for a new external gym building, giving the client a dedicated space to exercise without needing to extend the main house. Planning permission was successfully granted by the New Forest National Park Authority, which was a fantastic result for the client and allowed them to enjoy their property in a way that suited their lifestyle.
To support the construction stage, we prepared a detailed tender package, including key drawings, internal elevations, and a schedule of works. This gave builders the information they needed to quote accurately and meant the client could compare prices on a fair and consistent basis. We also helped gather quotes from trusted builders, communicated clearly with each contractor, answered questions, and supported the client in deciding who to appoint.
Once the builder was selected, our involvement continued on site. We visited the property weekly to review the works, monitor progress, help resolve construction queries, and report back to the client with updates and photographs. This helped keep the project on track and gave the client confidence that the work was being carefully overseen.
Woodside Cottage New Forest
Client Testimonial
The result was a complete transformation of the cottage. Every room was improved in some way, from the internal layout and storage to the natural light, finishes, and overall feel of the home. Despite the challenges of working with an older property, including uneven floors, irregular walls, and historic wattle and daub construction, we were able to deliver meaningful, practical, and attractive improvements.
This project is a great example of how good design is not always about adding more space. Sometimes it is about understanding the building, listening to the client, and finding smarter ways to use what is already there. Through careful design, detailed drawings, planning support, builder coordination, and ongoing site monitoring, we helped turn a challenging cottage into a more efficient, comfortable, and enjoyable home.
Highcliffe, Christchurch
Loft Conversion & Rear Extension to dated bungalow
Our involvement began at the early design stage, where we prepared two different loft conversion options, both supported by 3D visualisations and videos. This helped the clients clearly understand the potential layouts, compare the options, and begin conversations with builders around cost and buildability.
We then guided the project through the planning process, secured the required permissions, and prepared the building regulation drawings needed for construction. These technical drawings gave the builders the information required to deliver the project to the correct specification.
We were appointed when the clients first purchased the property, which was a dated bungalow in need of modernisation. Their ambition was to transform it into a spacious forever home that would work for their family both now and in the future.
To achieve the amount of space they needed, and to provide the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms, a loft conversion became an essential part of the design. This allowed the property to gain a completely new floor, while the ground floor rear extension created a much larger and more open living space.
At ground floor level, the rear of the house was extended to form a generous open-plan kitchen, dining and lounge area. The aim was to create a connected family living space with better flow, improved natural light and a stronger relationship with the garden.
The loft conversion included two side gables and a large rear box dormer, allowing the new upper floor to accommodate two excellent-sized bedrooms and two well-proportioned bathrooms. A key feature of the project was the new staircase, designed to feel luxurious and open, with Velux rooflights bringing daylight down through the stairwell and turning the journey to the upper floor into a feature in its own right.
Throughout the process, we supported the clients from concept to completion, helping them navigate planning, building regulations, design decisions and builder recommendations. The finished home now gives the family the space they needed for the long term, creating a comfortable and considered forever home.
Client Testimonial
"Luke has been so helpful throughout the planning of our extension. We changed our minds numerous times and Luke was quick to alter the plans and his 3D images were impressive. He is very polite and professional and gave us lots of advice. I would thoroughly recommend his services"
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