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Elmstead House

A complete reimagining of a Cotswold home, combining structural ambition, bespoke craftsmanship, and beautifully integrated modern living.

Project Information

Gloucestershire

Ashleigh Clarke Architects

Rebuilding the Heart of the Home

Elmstead House was an extensive whole-home renovation and expansion project, transforming the property through major structural alterations, a substantial double-storey extension, and a complete redesign of both the internal layout and external appearance. The result is a home that feels considerably larger, brighter, and better connected to its surroundings while still retaining the warmth and character expected of a traditional Cotswold property.

The rear extension dramatically increased the usable footprint of the house, creating expansive new living spaces designed for modern family life and entertaining. Externally, the blend of natural cedar cladding and smooth K-Rend render introduces a contemporary architectural contrast that works harmoniously alongside the original building. A newly constructed stone chimney and carefully integrated roof structure ensure the extension feels completely at home within the property’s existing form.

At the front elevation, the entrance sequence was entirely redesigned to create a far stronger sense of arrival. New Cotswold stone steps with bespoke curved steel handrails lead to a heavy oak porch canopy and solid oak entrance door, giving the property a refined yet welcoming appearance. The original bay windows were also completely rebuilt in finely dressed Bath stone and fitted with new high-performance glazing, elevating both the appearance and performance of the home.

Project Statement

Traditional craftsmanship, structural precision, and contemporary design combined to completely redefine this remarkable Cotswold home.

Light, Space & Architectural Detail

One of the defining features of Elmstead House is its extensive use of bespoke glazing, manufactured and installed by Cotswold Steel Windows. Large steel-framed patio doors and oversized windows flood the rear extension with natural light while creating a seamless connection to the landscaped terraces and gardens beyond.

Internally, bespoke steel-framed glass screens and double doors were introduced to subtly divide the ground floor living areas. These architectural features allow spaces such as the kitchen and sitting room to feel connected and open, while still offering privacy, warmth, and acoustic separation when needed. The result is a home that flows effortlessly while maintaining distinct and functional zones.

Throughout the property, every finish was carefully considered. Premium oak parquet flooring laid in a classic herringbone pattern runs throughout the principal living spaces, bringing warmth and texture to the interiors. In the main sitting room, a traditional log burner set within a timeless stone fireplace creates a natural focal point and reinforces the home’s blend of traditional and contemporary influences.

Elmstead House was a major undertaking and we needed a team capable of delivering both the structural complexity and the finer details to a very high standard. Clarke Construction Group exceeded expectations throughout. The craftsmanship, organisation, and communication were exceptional from start to finish. The finished home feels completely transformed and the integration of modern features, particularly the lift and glazing, has been carried out brilliantly. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.

M Solomon

Before/After

Elmstead House has undergone a complete transformation from a traditional property with a dated layout into a spacious, highly refined contemporary home tailored for modern living. Through extensive structural alterations, bespoke craftsmanship, and carefully balanced architectural design, the property now offers dramatically increased living space, improved natural light, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and future-proofed accessibility—all while retaining the timeless character expected of a beautiful Cotswold home.

Before After
Before After

Work In Progress

Elmstead House was a true labour of love for the entire Clarke Construction team. From our skilled tradespeople to dedicated project managers, every team member contributed their expertise and passion to bring this vision to life. Here’s a glimpse into the journey and teamwork that shaped this remarkable project.




Developer Diary

For a more in-depth look at how this project came together, please take a look at the Developer Diary updates from our time working on this project.


Our Location

We proudly serve the heart of the Cotswolds and surrounding counties, bringing our bespoke construction expertise to some of the UK’s most desirable towns and villages.

Map illustrating Clarke Construction Group service areas across the Cotswolds

From Gloucestershire’s elegant regency town of Cheltenham to the edges of the market hub of Cirencester, to the picture-perfect villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh, Broadway, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold; through Oxfordshire’s charming Burford, Charlbury, Witney and Woodstock; and up to Warwickshire’s historic Stratford-upon-Avon. Our local knowledge, attention to craftsmanship and understanding of the unique character of each locale ensure every project enhances the beauty and value of these affluent communities.


Ready to Build Something Beautiful?

Connect with our team today and begin the journey of bringing your vision to life, from concept to creation.