The Merchant’s House: Heritage Meets Modern Living
This striking property overlooking the Exe Estuary is one of a series of distinctive 17th century ‘Dutch style’ merchant’s houses, Grade II* listed for its archaeological and historical value, with many of the original features still remaining.
Over the centuries various additions, updates and repairs had been made, resulting in a charming house, with the original distinctive interior layout still evident, albeit joined together by a two storey infill. However, unsympathetic modernisation in the 1980’s meant that a gentle touch was now needed to bring the house up to 21st century living standards, whilst ensuring that its historic qualities and features were respected.
The scheme sought to retain the characteristic plan form of the house, whilst acknowledging subsequent alterations and extensions. Preserving the distinctive more formal original front part of the house, further light and space was achieved in the main living rooms by making alterations to the more recent (20c) side accommodation.
The rear portion of the house had become cluttered with a series of small rooms, as a result of years of modifications. Careful replanning introduced clearer circulation within the house and provided more spacious rooms and facilities more suitable to modern living, with floor levels rationalised where possible.
A contemporary twist was introduced in the estuary garden in the form of a cabin providing a modern retreat and painting studio. The seemingly simple construction was clad in charred oak with sliding folding doors to open out to embrace the sea view on sunny days.
During renovations a rare sgraffito fireplace was discovered and restored by specialists and an extremely rare 16th century glass flask was found buried in the grounds.
Through considered design, collaboration and consultation, the house was reinvigorated, respecting the historic heritage of the property through sensitive design and intervention and breathing a new lease of life into this delightful home.
Client Testimonial: Our huge appreciation for your guidance through a challenging project metamorphosing into a very happy end result.
We are proud to feature and promote in our architecture magazine The Merchant’s House by Louise Crossman Architects
