The Bellum
A new double height library room overlooking beautiful grounds
Marshfield, South Gloucestershire, 2014
The existing dwelling was modest in scale and proportion and, perhaps most importantly for the owner, had little or no reference to the extensive surrounding gardens and landscape that made this property so unique. By creating a double height, glazed space, not only will the property feel considerably more light and airy, but the gardens will be given proper prominence when sat inside.
Extremely careful consideration has been given to the massing and scale of the new extension, as well as the materials used, to ensure that it beds in to its surroundings as quickly and seamlessly as possible. All stonework has been sourced from site, with reclaimed ashlar quoins being locally sourced from the surrounding area. The cotswold stone finish gives a very traditional feel to the building, with a modern, contemporary twist being lent by the high spec, high performance aluminium windows and doors.
Internally, a spiral, centilevered staircase will provide the focus for the unique double-height Garden Room - a feature that the client has dreamed of having since being a small child!
Location: Marshfield, South Gloucestershire
Client: Private domestic
Design Team: Matthew Clay, Jack Jarrett, Morcom Design Workshop Ltd
Main Contractor: Wraxall Builders Ltd
Joinery: Westside Design
This sensitive refurbishment of a historical property required excellent design coordination to achieve the outcomes that the clients required. We have found the team at Matthew Clay Architects to be good listeners and attentive collaborators.
Darrell Morcom, Structural Engineer at Morcom Design Workshop