Project Overview
This project involved carefully considered enhancements to a basement space within a Grade II listed property. The brief was to improve usability, comfort, and performance while preserving the building’s historic character and ensuring minimal intervention to its original fabric.
The works focused on reinstating lost architectural features and upgrading existing elements, in a way that respects the property’s heritage significance. The basement, previously underutilised, has been sensitively transformed into a functional family games and cinema room.
Scope of Works
Reinstatement of Existing Lightwell: A former lightwell was reinstated to restore natural daylight and ventilation to the basement. This intervention not only improves the space’s usability but also reinstates an original architectural feature, enhancing the building’s authenticity.
Fire Safety Upgrade – Part-Glazed Door Installation: A new 30-minute fire-rated, part-glazed door was introduced to meet modern safety standards. The design balances compliance with aesthetics, allowing light to pass through while remaining in keeping with the building’s character.
Damp Investigation and Remedial Works: A thorough assessment of the existing masonry floor and walls was undertaken to identify sources of damp and water ingress. Conservation-led solutions were implemented to address these issues, ensuring the long-term integrity and durability of the structure.
Thermal Upgrades – External Walls: To enhance thermal performance, external masonry walls were upgraded using a fully reversible system. This included:
- 75mm timber stud framework
- 120mm PIR rigid insulation
- 30mm insulated plasterboard with skim finish
All works were carefully detailed to avoid harm to the historic fabric and ensure reversibility.
Internal Wall Finishes: Internal masonry walls were dry-lined and finished with plaster skim and paint, providing a clean, durable finish while remaining visually unobtrusive and sympathetic to the existing structure.
Design Approach
The design philosophy is centred on minimal intervention and maximum respect for the building’s heritage value. All materials and finishes were selected to be simple, understated, and in harmony with the existing character. Where possible, interventions were designed to be reversible, safeguarding the building for future generations.
Heritage Considerations
The scheme was developed with a strong conservation-led approach. The conversion preserves all significant architectural features and does not adversely impact the character or significance of the listed building. By reinstating original elements and improving environmental performance, the project enhances the property’s functionality and longevity.
Outcome
The result is a comfortable, functional, and characterful basement space that meets modern living needs without compromising the building’s historic integrity. This project demonstrates how thoughtful design and careful detailing can successfully bring heritage spaces back into active use.
