Branksome Park House
An Extensive Conversion Project
DMW have secured planning approval to convert and extend an outdated property nestled the Branksome Park conservation area, near Sandbanks, Dorset.
Commissioned by a private client, the brief focused on addressing the inefficiencies of the existing, which was characterised by dark spaces and long corridors.
The proposal creates a spacious, light-filled family home that embraces a south-facing private garden and woodland setting.
Project Director: Sean Daly
Project Leads: Mark Senior, Mark Christopher, Lotta Woodland
Planning Consultant: Pure Town Planning
Contractor: Banyard Construction
The scheme already had approval to convert but the proposed changes provided no enhanced connection to the private south-facing amenity. DMW's solution, as depicted in the illustrations below, show how a modest extension can transform the internal and external spatial arrangement of a property.
The north-facing garden currently used by the occupants as their principal amenity space will be formed as a intimate and well-defined entertaining space. The new extension to the south provides large-format glazing, which will create a seamless transition from inside to outside and allow the principal external space to be fully utilised.
By opening up cellular spaces and introducing new glazing, the remodel reconnects the home with its verdant setting whilst updating its appearance. The material strategy includes a sensitive palette of natural materials inspired by the client’s French heritage, blended with their love of Japanese and Scandinavian architecture.
The reconfiguration introduces energy-efficient glazing, improved insulation, and passive solar design to reduce reliance on artificial lighting and heating. A focus on natural materials supports a low-impact design approach. This transformation demonstrates how existing properties can be sensitively adapted for modern living, serving as a model for sustainable and contextually-aware development.