Parade House, 2017
Located
overlooking Woolacombe Bay and built in 1880 for Dame Rosalie Chichester the
property was one the first Victorian villas constructed on the then newly
established Woolacombe Esplanade. Threatened by years of neglect and potential
demolition our clients chose to lovingly restore this local landmark and add
two carefully crafted and contemporary side additions. This took a lot of
commitment on the clients, our and the contractors part. Removing the cement
render revealed brickwork substructure ravished by years exposed to a harsh
marine environment and careful consideration was needed to ensure materials and
finishes were chosen for this delicate conservation project. After substantial
rebuilding of the fabric, the addition of a iron balcony adorning the front of
the restored building that replicates the original and new sliding sash timber
windows to name but some of the works the building now stands as a proud
testament as to what is possible given a committed and supportive client.
The contemporary side additions, set back and with their alternative palette of materials and sedum roofs, are deliberately designed to subordinate to the host villa. The new spaces are open and flood with natural light; offering a keen contrast with the cellular spaces of Parade House. The new works utilise the materiality of the garden setting with natural stone walls contrasting with the lime based render of the villa and the timber boarding reflecting the potting sheds unearthed when clearing the gardens.
Fraught by controversy during the planning process this villa, with its contemporary side additions, now enhances the conservation area in which it sits and is rightly conserved for the enjoyment of future generations. The property comprises 4 individual homes each available for rent, see https://www.paradehousewoolacombe.com/