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Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster

A striking project full of small delights and skilful solutions

Combining old and new at Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster, designed by Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design
Combining old and new at Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster, designed by Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design

Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design for Kate Darby and David Connor

Contract value: £160,000

GIA: 115m²

Croft Lodge Studio, a striking project full of small delights and skilful solutions, boldly encapsulates the remains of a 17th century cottage into a modern house. A minimalist black box clad in corrugated metal with large openings, it sits well in its surroundings, without pastoral sweetness or prettiness.

  • The contemporary black exterior at Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster, designed by Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design
    The contemporary black exterior at Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster, designed by Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design
  • The new building encloses the existing 17th century cottage at Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster, designed by Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design
    The new building encloses the existing 17th century cottage at Croft Lodge Studio, Leominster, designed by Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design
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The new building wraps the old with care, and has merits of its own. The composition of the facade is balanced and driven by the location of the original structure. Inside, spaces are surprisingly welcoming, with the old adding theatre and poetry. The contrast is enjoyable, demonstrating confidence and maturity. The take on conservation is unusual. Its bluntness might be questioned, but it is stimulating and intriguing.

See the other winners of the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 – West Midlands


 

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