For the extension to this Grade II* Listed country house, we focused on creating a design that was complimentary to the existing building.

Drawing on traditional design principles, the new structure features timber sash windows and timber French doors.

Handmade roof tiles add character and the carefully selected mix of bricks match those of the house.

As a result, this new addition blends seamlessly with the original house.

Our task was to transform this Grade II Listed barn into additional residential accommodation comprising a family room, playroom, cloakroom, and a self-contained guest annexe.

We prioritised preserving the historic character and integrity of the barn, sympathetically adapting the space for modern living.

Key historic features were left exposed, including the structural timber frame, trusses, plates, studs, and diagonal tiles.

The existing windows were replaced with bespoke timber windows designed to complement the original character of the barn.

For this project in Marlborough, we transformed a pair of Grade II Listed buildings which had previously been used as a car dealership.

We treated the buildings as separate, and replaced the awkward 1970s single frontage with two distinct timber shopfronts.

The new shopfronts were carefully designed to be both visually appealing and more in keeping with the individual styles of these historic buildings.

Lime plaster and mortar are the backbone of traditional British architecture. Unlike modern cement-based alternatives, lime-based materials are flexible and breathable, making them ideal for historic buildings and sustainable new builds alike.

Why we use lime in our projects:

•  Allows buildings to ‘breathe’—preventing damp issues

•  More sustainable than cement-based products

• Provides a softer, more authentic aesthetic

Traditional handmade clay bricks offer a richness and authenticity that modern mass-produced bricks often lack. Their subtle variations in tone and texture add depth and warmth, making them ideal for conservation work or new classical homes.

At Alex Oliver Associates, we use high-quality, handcrafted timber sash windows for our projects.

Why choose timber sash windows?

• Period-accurate detailing for heritage properties

• Sustainable & repairable—unlike uPVC alternatives

• Beautiful proportions that enhance natural light

Timber sash windows are a defining feature of Britain’s architectural history, from elegant Georgian townhouses to Victorian terraces.

At Alex Oliver Associates, we prioritise high-quality, handcrafted timber sashes to maintain authenticity in restoration projects and traditional-style new builds.