Held High

A pitched roof inspired by homes in the Hamptons raises this characterful extension to new levels.

- Rachel Leedham

Can you describe the project? 

This is an extension I added to a Victorian worker’s cottage in Henley-on- Thames. The room is huge, which makes it fantastic for entertaining, with a kitchen and dining space at one end and the living area at the other.

Tell us about some of the architectural details. 

The pitched ceiling with bead-and-butt boarding has a strong American East Coast aesthetic, lending an informal element to the space. The wall on the right was originally the exterior wall of the cottage and I opted to keep a window (not seen) so visitors can glimpse the new extension from the entrance hall.

What does the joinery bring to the space?