Heritage Architecture Archives

The Old Rectory | Gloucestershire

KODA architects working closely with a garden designer has developed a new walled garden proposal to this stunning grade II listed former rectory in rural Gloucestershire. The proposals celebrates the seamless fusion of historical charm and modern design in the heart of Gloucester. We are thrilled to share our latest architectural venture – the creation of a walled garden for a listed building, deeply inspired by the collaborative spirit that defines the Chelsea Flower Show.

Inspired by the collaborative and innovative projects showcased at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, our team embarked on a journey to create a walled garden that would not only honour the rich history of the 18^th Century former rectory building but also serve as a testament to our close working relationships with our clients and the garden designer.

One of the hallmarks of our project was the close working relationship we fostered with our clients. We recognized that their vision and passion for the walled garden were integral to its success. From the initial concept discussions to the final details, we listened attentively to their ideas and requirements. We were inspired by their enthusiasm for preserving the heritage of the listed building while introducing elements of contemporary design. This collaborative approach ensured that the garden seamlessly integrated with the historical setting. In addition to our clients, we had the privilege of collaborating with a talented garden designer who shared our vision for this project. Drawing inspiration from the artistic and creative displays at the Chelsea Flower Show, the garden designer played a crucial role in bringing a touch of horticultural magic to the walled garden. Their expertise in plant selection, layout, and the use of decorative elements enhanced the overall design.

We were committed to preserving the historical integrity of the listed building, which posed unique challenges. Our collaborative efforts enabled us to strike a balance between the old and the new. The use of period-appropriate materials and techniques was essential, and the garden designer worked in harmony with our architects to ensure that the garden complemented the architecture flawlessly. The end result is a walled garden that harmoniously blends history, innovation, and natural beauty. It stands as a testament to the power of close collaboration and mutual inspiration. The spirit of the Chelsea Flower Show lives on in this exquisite project.

Our Gloucester walled garden project is not just a reflection of our working partnership we share with our clients and the garden designer. Together, we've created a space that encapsulates the timeless beauty of Gloucester's history while embracing the future with open arms.

Stay tuned for more updates on our architectural endeavours.

Conversion of Dinham Hall in Ludlow

KODA architects provided full architectural services for the conversion of a Dinham Hall, a former mansion house into seven unique luxury apartments. Dinham Hall is Grade II listed and is one on Ludlows finest buildings located in the Town centre, just outside of the Castle walls.

Built in 1792, by Samuel Nash for Richard Payne Knight of Downton Castle, the building has a long and interesting history. Once a grand private Georgian home, the building was complimented by a generous garden, ice house, stables and views over Ludlow. The building remained a private house until the mid 20th Century when it was converted into a boarding school with fond memories of former pupils. Recently the building had regained an element of grandeur of its former self in use as a boutique hotel boasting fine dining, to critical acclaim.

KODA Architects submitted planning and Listed Building consent applications for the conversion, provided detail design and full contract administration through to the completion of the project. The project was finished to an extremely high standard creating unique benchmark residencies in Ludlow.

As part of former historic interventions to the property, the building had lost a significant amount of historic detailing including cornice, fireplaces and finer elements such as architraves and doors. As part of the new conversion project, the conservation team at KODA architects replicated historically accurate features to enhance the buildings significance. KODA Architects conservation team are complimented by a wider design team including agent, Fire Engineer, lift manufacturers tanking specialists, and mechanical and electrical Engineers. Part of our appointment included historic mapping of the building and a carefully detailed schedule of repairs and sympathetic interventions to the historic fabric were undertaken.

The new apartments provide unique accommodation with classic Georgian design with the modern benefit of lift access. The refurbishment of the entrance hall grand central cantilever staircase provides a great sense of theater as you enter the building. Each apartment boasts fine historic details, private parking and landscaped gardens together with long reaching views over Ludlow, countryside and of course, the adjacent grade I listed and scheduled ancient monument of Ludlow Castle.

Watch our Instagram for updates of similar projects to this throughout the RIBA stages.

St. Michael and All Angels Church in Hereford

KODAs conservation architects in Hereford were commissioned following a competitive tendering process and work began in investigating the repairs to this magnificent building at the beginning of this summer. As conservation architects in Hereford, working on a magnificent building such as St. Michael and All Angels church is a pleasure. We love investigating historic buildings and how they came about, tracing their history and how they’ve developed over time.

Located in rural Herefordshire, St. Michael and All Angels Church was constructed in the 14^th Century with later alterations in the 15^th and 16^th Centuries. The building is Grade I listed and has very fine medieval glazing featured in the chancel, north and south aisles. The chancel features a very ornate painted wagon vaulted ceiling which was installed as part of the restoration by GF Bodley in 1866-68. The building features fine stone carving throughout with a number of gargoyles, grotesques and label stops, which is great to see.

KODA's Conservation Architect in Hereford Fred Hamer said “Working on this historic building was particularly rewarding. Before we proposed making any repairs or changes, to the historic fabric, we have thoroughly investigated how the building is used and maintained. We have proposed some exciting changed to enhance the buildings significance and conserve the historic fabric were possible and in doing so created a more sustainable building."

A two stage grant application was prepared and submitted to the newly reformed Nation Heritage Lottery Fund. The project was one of the first successful applications to be awarded and was the largest in the region at the time.

Conservation repair works started in April 2021 with the project being awarded following a competitive tender process to Treasure and Sons, based in Ludlow. The specification and repairs were carried out on a priority basis to safe guard the historic fabric against further decay.

The conservation and repair of the fabric started in April this year and we look forward to unveiling the enhanced St. Michael and All Angels Church later this year. We will continue to post out progress on this buildings careful repair on our instagram feed which you can follow @kodaarchitects.

KODAs conservation Architects in Hereford, Fred Hamer said: “at KODA we have a passion for working with historic buildings from all ages. The storey of who built, lived and used these buildings enriches architecture from more than a pile of building materials. This storey is enhanced as we open up historical buildings as we learn more about how and why they were constructed in the manner they were. KODAs conservation architects in Hereford categories their findings as they progress through the construction and uncovering stages which enriches the storey further.”

Useful links:

Hereford times article

Extension in Cheltenham

KODA architects Cheltenham are preparing a planning and listed building consent application to Cheltenham Borough Council. Built in the mid 19th Century, this Regency style villa is Grade II listed and located within the central Conservation Area of Cheltenham. The grand villa property was previously home to two notable figures from Cheltenham, Dame Sidney Jane Brownie and Sir Ralph Richardson. Both had notable careers across the town, Brownie was appointed as Matron-in-chief of the newly formed Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Service and later of the Territorial Force Nursing Service and Richardson had a notable career in film and at the theatre. Both are noted with blue plaques which adorn the front of the building.

The front façade has a striking Cotswold ashlar stone with detailed and decorative mouldings. The property was built at a period in Cheltenham of expansion into the neighbouring countryside. Architecture at this time was about displaying the wealth and the promotion fo the town as a considered and gentrified settlement. The wider area was part of a planned expansion of the town with the road, built as a private, tree lined avenue with links to the nearby Park. The grandeur of the area adds to the wider sense of place of Cheltenham.

KODA Architects Cheltenham were appointed to make comprehensive repairs to the historic fabric as wells as to bring the property into the 21st Century allowing it to serve is new roll of a busy family home. KODA architects Cheltenham proposed a carefully planned extension to this beautiful property and following a close inspection of the building, designs are being prepared for submission to Cheltenham Borough Council.

Following long and detailed discussions with Cheltenham Borough Council, the conservation team at KODA architects mapped the development and changes of the building throughout its history. From this detailed analysis, KODA architects were able to justify the proposed and extensive alterations and were successful in obtaining planning and listed building consent for the renovations and alterations. A new first floor extension was proposed to provide new master family bathroom together with an ensuite to serve the master bedroom to the property. When the property was built, the property did not have a purpose built bathroom, instead, it was a tin bath in front of the fireplace. It wasn't until later, bathrooms were retrofitted to houses and this was in the form of dividing of the principal rooms at first floor level. This resulted in the original room proportions being lost and the bedroom becoming a small, box room. The proposed extension moved the services externally, allowing the full room proportions to be reinstated together with decorative architectural features such as cornicing.

In extending a special building like Tivoli Road, we were careful in its appearance. The proposed is deliberately different to the existing to clearly show it is a new addition, but it is subservient to the originals mass as not to challenge it. The design is based around the cladding increments of the VM Zinc Cladding, with the interlocking panels shadow gaps aligned to emphasize verticality to the design. To retain the mass of the previous lean-to style roof the new external wall was spaced away from the external wall of the building and the extension supported by a steel structure at ceiling level. New window openings were recessed to allow the cladding to take a dominance over the external facade, a contrast to the original building.

The settlement of Cheltenham, which survives today, was largely built in the Regency period and through into the Victorian era. This resulted in the town being dubbed the most complete Regency town in the country. To protect this architectural history and significance, most of the town is protected by a Conservation Area. As such the architecture of Cheltenham is uniform and of a similar architecture style.

Quinquennial Inspection in Cheltenham

KODAs architects conservation architect Fred Hamer has carried out the Quinquennial Inspection in Cheltenham at St. Martin de Tour’s Church. The church of St. Martin’s is thought to date back to Saxon period however record of the building before its rebuilding in 1499 as limited.

Located on the edge of Cheltenham, St.Martin’s is an excellent example of Perpendicular architecture which evident throughout the Diocese. KODA Architects conservation architects Fred Hamer is the quinquennial inspecting Architect in Cheltenham for St. Martin de Tour Church in Gloucester Diocese.

The church is an excellent example of 15th Century medieval architecture with later additions. Built from Cotswold Stone, the church features medieval glass the building is a picturesque addition to the surrounding village of Woolstone. The church however is know best for it leaning tower. The 15th-century is said to lean at a greater angle than its more famous Italian counterpart, the leaning tower of Pisa.

The leaning tower however is not a result of poor medieval construction, but rather it is down to the underlying geology of Crane Hill, which is formed of clay which expands and contracts depending on its level of moisture. This makes the ground susceptible to subject movement and shifting over time. The lean of the tower concerned inspecting architects in the 1970s so much that Italian engineers were called in to carry out repairs and stabilisation works to the structure. Engineers inserted a number of long steel rods set in concrete beneath the tower to spread the load over a broader area. The tower lean continues to be monitored during each Quinquennial Inspection to see if the movement is ongoing.

KODAs conservation architect, Fred Hamer said "St Martin de Tours church is an interesting one, locally known as the church with the leaning tower, the tower is always a topic of conversation. Each inspection, we closely monitor the tower to see whether the movement if still on going, but we’re happy to report the tower is still standing following our recent inspection"

As with many other churches across the country, congregations are facing increasing repair costs against ever dwindling congregation numbers. KODA architects are specialists in working with PCCs in carefully adapting church buildings, diversifying their revenue income and managing change to these important buildaings. Take a look at out Church reordering page for more information on our process.

Stokesay Castle | Shropshire

KODAs Conservation team have carried out a schedule of condition ahead of a filming production by Amazon productions that one of the finest fortified houses in the country, Stokesay Castle. The Scheduled Ancient Monument is owned and managed by English Heritage.

Stokesay Castle was constructed at the end of the 13th century by Laurence of Ludlow, who at the time was one of the richest men in England. It remains a treasure by-passed by time, one of the best places to visit in England to experience what medieval life was like. The great hall has remained unchanged for over 700 years and is a fine example of construction with spectacular medieval roof timbers. Perhaps the most characterful addition to the complex is the 17th-century gatehouse with fine decorative timber carving. The castle is set within breathtaking views of the Shropshire Hills

KODA architects Conservation architects are working closely with English Heritage, Architectural Conservators and Amazon Prime production team to ensure that the Scheduled Ancient Monument is not damaged during the filming process. Prior to filming KODAs conservation team carried out a schedule of condition as a record of the buildings current condition. KODAs team continue to assist conservators and production team throughout the production.

Stokesay Castle is home for filming of a period drama for Amazon Prime, set in the medieval period. However as Stokesay has periods of development through most periods with the fine 17th Century gate house being the focus of the site. Having these later additions would not fit the medieval setting in which the film is set so the set had to be carefully dressed so that later features such as the gate house as well as smaller features such as lead rainwater pipes, alarm boxes and a well housing did not show in the finished film. Other features including the new reception, shop and toilets had to be hidden to appear like they were a timber clad barn in the background.

We eagerly away to see the final results on our screens later this year.

The Old Vicarage | Presteigne

Located in a prominent position near Prestigne, Powys this fine grade II listed property was built by Sir Gilbert Scott’s office towards the end of the 19th Century. Built originally as a vicarage for the near by church of St. Andrew, the property is a testament to Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and resolve with all the building materials being brought in from as far as the Cotswolds.

The property boasts fine Victorian Gothic features such as dominant roofscapes with polychromatic slating and decorative finials. The interior is equally spectacular with fine wood carving, fireplaces and staircase. As with many older properties, the service areas are located to the rear of the property and are subservient to the main living areas which are located to the front of the property, as such, the kitchen is small and disconnected from garden. As we lead a less formal lifestyle, the kitchen has become the focus of the family environment.

KODA architects were commissioned to carry out remodelling of the existing kitchen and dining areas as well as a carefully considered extension which would sit comfortably with the property. The kitchen and living space would be reformed to address extensive views over the rolling Powys landscape to the rear.

The extension uses the existing, grand house as a precedent to inform the proposed. The single storey extension uses a rolled lead flat roof and Cotswold stone coins to the new main new corner. The open plan kitchen focuses the views outward over the valley allowing the building to be carefully adapted to serve a busy family again.

Quinquennial Inspection in Malvern

KODAs architects conservation architect Fred Hamer has carried out the Quinquennial Inspection in Malvern at St. Gabriel’s Church. The church of St. Gabriel was part of a wider master plan of Malvern which planning for the rapid expansion of the settlement in the late 19th Century.

Built at the height of the industrial revolution, urban centres were experiencing massive growth to serve factories and business. As part of this rapid period of growth, churches and other civic buildings were planned and built as Victorian terraced housing encompassed them. However in the case of St. Gabriel’s the church was designed and built ready to serve the new community which didn’t come. The mass expansion of this part of Worcestershire was never realised and as such, this large church building serves a small community.

KODA Architects conservation architects Fred Hamer is the quinquennial inspecting Architect in Malvern for St. Gabriel’ Church in Worcester Diocese.

The church is an excellent example of 19th century ecclesiastical high Victorian architecture. The tall spire and imposing nature of the building is typical of High Victorian values, a contrast to older ecclesiastical buildings.

KODAs conservation architect, Fred Hamer said "Its a pleasure to have the roll of inspecting Architect for such a wide range of building. The challenges we face with St. Gabriel’s is perhaps more heightened as it is a building which didn’t reach its full potential in serving the expectant population. We must think of creative ways to conserve this building as landmark to Victorian ambitions "

Wishing Well Cottage | Gloucestershire

KODAs Conservation architects in Gloucester are appointed to carry out repairs, renovations and an extension at this fine Grade II listed cottage.Located in rural Gloucestershire, Wishing Well Cottage is located within the extensive grounds of a large manor house. The property originally formed the grounds keepers cottage and later the vallets accommodation with garaging for a new invention - the motor car. The property was built during the mid 19th Century alongside the main house and as such, is grade II listed. Featuring decorative brick arches, the property had been extensively altered from it original form.

The estate was largely supported by extensive farm land and forestry activities, supplying timber supports for nearby mining. Serving the Manor were formal gardens and a walled kitchen garden which focused on preparing planting for the gardens and vegetables for the kitchens. The kitchen garden are protected and enclosed by tall and imposing brick walls, creating a private contrast to the expansive parkland estate. The Cottage is build directly off this enclosing walls which has been expressed throughout the proposals.

Following investigation in to the property history and its historic development, KODA architects have been detailing extensive renovation and repair works to this fine cottage. The proposals comprise of a large extension to the north, restoring the now lost gardening structures in providing retirement accommodation.

The contemporary extension is open plan which we have located the main living and family areas with access into the private walled garden. Dissecting this open plan extension are four new, bespoke steel trusses which help divide up the internal volume.

The design team at KODA architects have been careful to play with the internal light level as a contrast to the smaller, darker spaces in the listed cottage. A large east window captures morning light into the breakfast area, roof lights drawn light throughout the day and feature windows attract late afternoon light.

To the exterior, the extension is subservient to the existing building, allowing the project to read easily as a later addition. The existing and historic fabric has been carefully restored and repaired, allowing the property to serve its inhabitants for a long time to come.

Imperial Square | Cheltenham

KODA architects Cheltenham have gained planning and listed building consent for building repairs and extensive refurbishment to this Grade II* listed property. Accompanying the planning application and listed building consent applications, the proposals were to to restore this fine Regency home back into a single dwelling.

Built in the early 19th Century, Imperial Square was built as part of the booming expansion and gentrification of Cheltenham. Built by Robert Todd and William Prosser to designs by eminent architects Cheltenham, John Forbes. The building is home which forms a terrace of properties providing a formal frontage along Imperial Square, Cheltenham. The uniformity , significant contribution to the Cheltenham Townscape and architectural evidence is the reason why the terrace is Grade II* listed.

KODAs Conservation Architect in Cheltenham Fred Hamer said: "Working with such an iconic building as Imperial square, we were very careful in how we can restore this small part of the wider terrace back to its former glory. The building has been completely renovated from top to bottom allowing the it to be a family home once again."

The regency architecture of Cheltenham is known as one of the most complete architectural styles in the UK. As such, the town is covered by the largest conservations area which protects the historic and architectural significance. Added to this layering of protection, Imperial Square is Grade II* listed and is listed as the same significance as Buckingham Palace and The Palace of Westminster.

A high quality of finish achieved at the property in the result of meticulous attention to detail. The property has been carefully designed to reestablish the house as a busy family environment. The lower ground level has a close connection with the courtyard with off street parking whilst the drawing room has extensive views over the centre of Cheltenham. The property boasts five bedrooms with four bathrooms together with preserving the period details of the original building.

Being listed however does not mean that we cannot make changes to these buildings, however we must consider the impact our proposals have on the historic fabric. Once historic fabric has been removed, it cannot be replaced. Before any intervention can take place, a closing inspection and investigation of the existing must take place.

The Old Rectory | Gloucestershire

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A Country House

Conversion of Dinham Hall in Ludlow

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Conservation Architects in Ludlow

Conservation Architects in Herefordshire

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Conservation Architects Hereford

Useful links:

St. Michael and All Angels Church Gallery

KODA architects Cheltenham

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Architects Cheltenham

Quinquennial Inspection in Cheltenham | Gloucestershire

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Quinquennial Inspection in Cheltenham

Stokesay Castle | Shropshire

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Schedule of Condition

Heritage Extension | Powys

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Quinquennial Inspection Malvern | Worcestershire

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Quinquennial Inspection in Malvern

Conservation architects in Gloucester

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Conservation Architects in Gloucester

Imperial Square | Architects Cheltenham

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Architects Cheltenham

“The finish on this property is absolutely wonderful and the fittings exquisite!”