Westerham House
Project Particulars
- Project
- Westerham House
- Clients
- Private
- Local Authority
- Sevenoaks District Council
- Size
- 745m²
- Construction Cost
- Confidential
Project Team
- Architect
- Phillips Tracey Architects
- Structural Engineer
- Built Engineers
- Landscape Architect
- Camlins LA
- Mechanical & Electrical Engineer
- IWA
- Cost Consultant
- CHP
- Interior Designer
- Anna Hewitson Design
- Contractor
- Solid Oak Ltd
- Photographer
- 82mm Photography
Westerham House involves the alteration and extension of a large detached Edwardian House which stands within the Metropolitan Green Belt and the Kent Downs AONB.
Our proposal includes the retention of the major part of the existing house, the extension of the north east wing (following the removal of a large existing swimming pool building), a new games room, new parking arrangements and extensive landscaping.
The new red brick wing replaces an existing structure of a similar form and scale and houses a generous kitchen/dining room under a vaulted oak ceiling.
On the south east elevation an existing conservatory was replaced with a new garden room. This is a trabeated pale brick building treated in a contemporary manner.
The generous reception rooms are arranged as an enfilade and face south west across the lawn.
The garden design was developed in conjunction with a revised landscape design which reconfigures the approach to the house, adds a swimming pond and restores the walled garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was a swimming pool chosen instead of a conventional swimming pool?
A natural swimming pool was selected to create a landscape feature that feels integral to the garden rather than a standalone leisure facility. The pond enhances biodiversity, contributes to the wider landscape design and provides a more natural swimming experience while strengthening the connection between the house and its setting.
How can a contemporary extension complement an Edwardian house?
The new additions were designed to be clearly contemporary while respecting the scale, proportions and material character of the original Edwardian house. This approach allows old and new architecture to coexist without imitation.
Why was a vaulted oak ceiling used in the kitchen and dining room?
The kitchen and dining room was conceived as the social heart of the house. The vaulted oak structure creates a sense of generosity and craftsmanship, bringing warmth and character to a large contemporary space.
How does landscape design influence the architecture of a house?
At Westerham House, the architecture and landscape were designed together from the outset. The restored walled garden, swimming pond, new approach and planting strategy shaped how the extensions relate to the site and how the house is experienced.
How do you design a large family home within a Green Belt and AONB constraints?
The design carefully balances the requirements of contemporary family living with the sensitivities of the Metropolitan Green Belt and Kent Downs National landscape. New additions were positioned and scaled to sit comfortably within both the existing house and its wider setting.
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