Sophie Curtis Property obtained planning permission for the change of use and redevelopment of a redundant Grade II listed church just outside of Tunbridge Wells. The historic building was falling into disrepair and required significant redevelopment to breath a new life. The proposed design ensured that the original features remain and are restored whilst designing a smart multi-floor living space into the rear of the structure. As such a great historic building will be re-established in the local community.

Sophie Curtis Property sold the property with planning permission granted and did not complete any building works.

This following CGI image depicts the approved design for the interior of the property. The space boasts an open plan central atrium with a three story living area at the rear which including a vast master bedroom that overlooks the entire interior.

When putting forward a plan for the future of the building, the approach was to restore and renew the original using traditional methods and materials whilst incorporating the best of the new materials and design to create stylish accommodation for 21st Century living. Respect for the original, an understanding of what is important, empathy for the surroundings and a focus on providing a viable, sustainable future use.

The primary objective was to agree a change of use that provided a viable future residential use, whilst achieving a scheme that best respects, preserves and reveals the original features in such a way that they can still be enjoyed, whilst enabling a new lease of life for this building for the benefit of future generations.

The approved conversion is wholly within the existing envelope of the building fully retaining the existing external finishes and elevations. The internal polychromatic brickwork would be left exposed. The exterior of the building would be renovated and cleaned, enhancing and conserving the cultural heritage of the site.

Internally the plan of the church includes a 3-bay nave with projecting south porch, slightly narrower 2-bay apsidal-ended chancel and north organ chamber and vestry.

It is proposed keeping the chancel and over half the nave full height to allow full appreciation of the most important interior features including the chancel stained glass, painted ceiling, polychrome brickwork, barrel-vaulted roof, chancel arch and pulpit.

Floor layers would then be inserted in the remainder of the nave by constructing a structure within a structure to provide the required rooms for a practical and functional residential family dwelling.

This approach also allows for any changes to be reversible.

The following floor layout shows how the space would be arranged.