High-End Sustainable Retrofit, Saffron Walden, Essex.

A Building Design Award Finalist, this project involved transforming a historic vicarage into a modern, sustainable home while preserving its character. After been appointed by award-winning architects Gbolade Design Studios, Fallon & Co Builders executed the deep retrofit using a fabric-first approach to improve thermal efficiency, reduce carbon footprint, and promote sustainability.

RESIDENTIAL CASE STUDY

9/21/20241 min read

Scope of Work

Structural Enhancements: Reinforced the original building structure to support modern living without compromising heritage features.
Energy Efficiency: Incorporated high-performance components, ground sourced heating, solar energy and reusing materials to minimise embodied carbon.
Lighting & Layout: Redesigned the internal layout to maximise natural light and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

BLENDING THE OLD & NEW

The external building work harmonised modern eco-features, such as solar panels, with the existing brick façade, ensuring the property met contemporary environmental standards without compromising its charm.

CHALLENGES

Working within the constraints of a conservation area, Fallon & Co Builders had to ensure that the property's historic essence remained intact while introducing modern technologies and materials. The careful balance of old and new, combined with sustainable practices, made the project both complex and rewarding.

Natural light & Material

The house basks in natural light, enhanced by Fallon Bespoke Joinery's rich, earthy woodwork, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces to create a vibrant, organic atmosphere. Even the basement spa benefits from the natural light, offering a tranquil, sun-kissed retreat.

RESULT

The project was completed within the client’s timeframe and budget, a project that beautifully blended heritage and modernity. This retrofit earned recognition within the construction industry, and through our partners Gbolade Design Studio, became a finalist for Individual House of the Year in the 2024 Building Design AYA awards.

SURPRISE & DELIGHT

The house teases with its sleek glass doors and internal windows that offer glimpses of its gym and games room, while hidden doors conceal delightful secrets, inviting discovery and surprise at every turn.