Studio Cottage

: Cirencester

Studio Cottage and Thatch Annex were built between 1920-1930 having been designed by Alfred Hoare Powell and Louise Powell their Arts and Craft Studio and pottery decorating workshop. Studio Cottage was uninhabited for many years as a tiny uninsulated timber cottage on a vast plot; beautifully preserved in time but in need of new purpose. The architect’s vision was to regenerate the site as a contemporary family home, merging the grade 2 listed cottage and studio together with a contemporary glass link and a replacement stone barn to provide additional accommodation in the form of guest bedrooms, work space and garden storage facilities.

The layers of existing walls, floors and roof linings were peeled and to create a more thermally efficient, watertight and comfortable building, whilst respecting the significance of the listed facing materials. Works to the listed buildings included the reinstatement of a large feature window to the north, creating an impressive double-height living space. A new bespoke stair and a slatted screen pay homage to the wealth of timber-craft at play, and to the Arts and Crafts love of Japanism. This project showcases how conservation, pragmatism, innovation, and deep architectural engagement can coexist. It honours heritage through technical precision and collaborative craftsmanship achieving a holistic and enduring transformation that links legacy and innovation. In the spirit of Arts and Crafts it is a balance of realism and idealism.