Yew Tree Cottage, Dorset
An 18th century cottage in a village setting had an interesting character, and more presence than a simple cottage because of curious, unexpected if not quirky insertions by a former owner, in the form of mouldings, chimney pieces, door surrounds and a staircase. These grafts, both inside and out, were gathered from the bombed ruins of grand London houses. The spaces within were nevertheless small and restricted. The requirements were to provide a larger, more open living space which would be more flexible than the existing spaces as well as a more informal, multi-use and accessible side entrance and another larger bedroom and bathroom. The new building is constructed of timber, a material which contrasts with the old painted brick and stone, revealing that it's function is different to the rest of the house. The timber extension is placed at an acute angle to the main building, creating a semi protected sitting out area at the back of the house. The use of timber is not limited to the exterior of the new building inside the same material is used to make a shower only here it is in a very refined form, smooth and dense as opposed to the rougher cladding outside. The cladding and finishing was carried out by the owner, a maker of highly crafted furniture.