Whitstable Fisherman's Cottage
Complete Conservation-Area Renovation and Two-Storey Extension
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Project Details
Location: Whitstable Conservation Area
Project type: Complete renovation and two-storey extension
Approximate value: £250,000
Duration: Approximately 12 months
Role: Principal Contractor
Key features: Extension, structural alterations, replacement sash windows, new bathrooms and complete internal refurbishment
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Project Overview
This traditional Whitstable fisherman’s cottage had been unoccupied for approximately two years and required extensive structural and internal renovation. The existing ground-floor extension was demolished and replaced with a new steel- and timber-framed two-storey addition. The project retained the character of the original cottage while creating larger, brighter rooms and a more practical layout suited to modern family life.
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Client Brief
The clients wanted to transform the neglected cottage into a comfortable and characterful family home while respecting its location within Whitstable’s Conservation Area. Their priorities included creating more living space, improving the first-floor layout, introducing additional bathroom facilities and retaining the traditional appearance of the original property. They also wanted the new extension to provide a clear contemporary contrast without appearing disconnected from the historic cottage.
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What we Delivered
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Demolition of the existing ground-floor extension
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Construction of a steel- and timber-framed two-storey extension
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Genuine Shou Sugi Ban charred-oak external cladding
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Major structural alterations and new steelwork
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Steel-plate strengthening to sections of the original structure
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Relocation of the staircase to improve the first-floor layout
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Complete replacement of walls, ceilings and floors
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Renovation of the attic with new Velux roof windows
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New central-heating system throughout
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Complete electrical rewire by Sait Electrical
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New bathrooms supplied and installed by Browne & Sons
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Professional brick cleaning and repointing to the front and rear elevations
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Replacement timber sash windows and front door
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Complete internal refurbishment and decoration
Before and After Gallery
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Challenges & Solutions
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Combining an older cottage with a substantial modern extension required careful structural planning. Sections of the original building needed strengthening with new steelwork and steel plates before the internal layout could be altered safely.
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Working within the restricted footprint of a traditional fisherman’s cottage also required close coordination between trades. Materials, deliveries and construction stages were carefully managed to maintain progress and minimise disruption to neighbouring properties.
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As the house had been unoccupied for more than two years before work began, qualifying elements of the renovation were eligible for the reduced 5% rate of VAT, providing an important saving for the client.
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The Result
The completed property combines the character of a traditional Whitstable fisherman’s cottage with the space, comfort and functionality of a modern home. Restored brickwork, bespoke sash windows and carefully selected finishes retain the building’s historic identity, while the charred-oak extension provides a confident contemporary contrast. The revised layout has created larger rooms, improved natural light and made far better use of the first floor and attic. The result is a distinctive, practical and carefully finished home designed for long-term family living.
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Client Review
“We had major renovations completed to our fisherman’s cottage, including a new two-storey extension and considerable internal work. Communication was good throughout the project and trust was maintained from beginning to end. We are delighted with the finished result and would happily recommend Browne & Sons.”
Planning a Similar Renovation?
Whether you are restoring a period property, extending a traditional home or planning a complete renovation, Browne & Sons can coordinate every stage of the construction process.
