Double-storey addition, Lymington

A refined reimagining of a Lymington cottage.

Originally a modest cottage, this home had undergone several piecemeal extensions over the years, resulting in a disjointed layout and awkward flow. The main entrance, located to the side, led to a maze of corridors and circulation space that compromised functionality and created four undersized bedrooms.

The redesign reimagines the internal layout by introducing a central hallway and relocating the staircase to the heart of the home, establishing a sense of balance and cohesion. A new double-storey extension enhances both space and flow, accommodating four generously sized double bedrooms, a versatile fifth bedroom or office, and a spacious utility and boot room.

Externally, the composition has been refined to create a more harmonious and attractive front elevation. Windows and doors have been carefully consolidated for visual unity, while the materials palette remains true to the property’s cottage character - featuring painted timber windows, a clay tiled roof with bonnet detailing, and a blend of brick, render, and timber cladding.

The result is a thoughtfully reworked family home that preserves its traditional charm while providing a functional and elegant modern layout.

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01202 232423

5 Castle St, Christchurch,
Dorset, BH23 1DP

info@studioarkell.com

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Interior Design

We can also assist with interiors specifications — for example, kitchen layouts, bespoke joinery, finishes, and fittings.

We can prepare a tailored quote based on the level of detail and input you’d like from us. The more information we specify upfront together, the smoother the build process will be, and the more accurate your contractor’s costings will be, helping to avoid unexpected costs.

This scope would be agreed under a fixed fee.

Pre Application

If the proposed scheme is particularly large, complex, or potentially contentious, we may recommend submitting a pre-application enquiry to the local planning authority before proceeding with a full planning application. This can help clarify requirements, identify potential issues early, and improve the chances of a successful outcome.

This scope would be agreed under a fixed fee.

BREGs

After planning approval, the final stage is Technical Design, where we create detailed Building Regulation Drawings (BREGs).

A few important notes:

  • You’ll need Building Control sign-off for the build. This can be done through the local authority or privately, with fees paid directly to Building Control.

  • We can introduce you to trusted local structural engineers, or we’re happy to collaborate with any chartered engineer of your choice. Their fees are separate and payable directly to them.

  • We can also introduce you to reputable builders we regularly work with, if needed.

Our fees are split into two payments: 50% upon instruction and 50% upon issue of the drawings to Building Control.

Planning

Once you’re happy with the proposed design, we’ll prepare your planning application pack.

A typical planning submission includes:

  • Location & Block Plan

  • Existing Plans & Elevations

  • Proposed Plans & Elevations (including coloured elevations)

  • Proposed Site Plan

  • Design & Access Statement

We’ll handle the submission on your behalf and liaise with the council throughout, keeping you updated every step of the way.

Our fees are split into two payments: 50% upon instruction and 50% upon submission of the application.

Concept

This is the exciting part — shaping a design that’s perfectly suited to you.

After our initial consultation, we’ve prepared a brief and a list of drawing deliverables. Here’s how this stage works: We start with a site survey to produce accurate existing plans and elevations. We then develop proposed design drawings based on the agreed brief. Once ready, we’ll invite you to our office for a design review. We’ll refine the design based on your feedback and issue a final drawing pack for you to sign off. Our fees are split into two payments: 50% upon instruction and 50% upon issue of the drawings.