Upper Bryngroes has to be one of my favourite projects. It began as a dilapidated farmhouse with huge untapped potential, and transformed into a vibrant modern family home that also functions as a high-quality holiday let for modern Airbnb guests.
The vision was to create a warm, inviting space that could comfortably accommodate groups, with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape ensuring I retained the charm of the original farmhouse. Light, space, and flow were key priorities, alongside a finish that felt contemporary while honouring its rural setting.
Working closely with the client, I developed a design that carefully balanced refurbishment with extension. The proposals reworked the internal layout to create open-plan living areas and improve the flow of the home.
At ground floor level, the design centred around a large cosy kitchen, dining, and day room space, creating a sociable heart to the property. I added a boot room, shower room, and storage areas as practical spaces for guests, dogs, and muddy boots. Upstairs, the layout was reconfigured to provide multiple bedrooms with ensuites and made sure to maximise the views of the surrounding countryside at every opportunity. I wanted to infuse the space with natural light, so included openings and rooflights. Externally, the design combined traditional materials with contemporary elements such as cladding, large, glazed openings, and a veranda to connect indoor and outdoor living.
While I love this type of project, they do come with challenges. The existing structure required significant upgrading to meet modern building regulations. Also, ensuring the property achieved strong energy performance while retaining its character was a key consideration throughout the design process.
The layout needed to work not just as a home, but as a commercial holiday let, so durability, functionality, and guest experience were at the heart of all design decisions.
Upper Bryngroes has gone from once-neglected property to a spacious, light-filled home that blends the traditional with the contemporary.
The new extension with its seamless open-plan living area, and large glazed openings framing views across the landscape helps to flood the space with natural light. The veranda and patio bring the outdoors in and really make the most of the beautiful setting – even the material choices; render, slate roofing, and cladding, bring a modern aesthetic while giving a sympathetic nod to the surrounding environment.
Upper Bryngroes is now a beautifully finished holiday home that successfully combines comfort, style, and practicality. The property offers a high-quality Airbnb experience, with flexible living spaces, generous bedrooms, and thoughtful design details throughout.
I feel that the project demonstrates how considered architectural design can breathe new life into an existing building, unlocking potential and creating a space that works for both owners and guests alike.
I am proud to have breathed life back into these old, unloved spaces, guiding this project from concept through to completion, and delivering a transformation that is functional and visually compelling.
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