Rowlands Hill
Mews Style Development Incorporating a Listed Victorian Villa
Located in Colehill, this project reconfigures a Victorian villa into two elegant dwellings while introducing a mews courtyard development to the rear. The design respects the site's heritage and environmental sensitivities, balancing the preservation of its historic charm with the introduction of new structures that harmonise with the surroundings.
Architect: Derek Williams
Planning Consultant: Ken Parke Planning
Client: Bayview Developments
Status: Construction
At the heart of the project is the sensitive conversion of the grand Victorian villa. Careful attention was given to retaining the original architectural character, including the removal of incongruous later additions to the rear. The villa now serves as two distinct four-bedroom houses, preserving the Victorian elegance whilst meeting contemporary living standards.
To the rear of the site lies the mews courtyard development, featuring seven newly constructed residences of varying sizes. The design evokes the charm of traditional Victorian almshouses, featuring brick banding, soldier courses, and slate roofs. The height of the new dwellings is stepped to align with the smaller neighbouring bungalows to the south, mitigating impact and integrating the new development within the residential grain.
Drawing inspiration from the Lady Wimborne style of architecture and historic elements of Wimborne and Canford Magna, the design captures the proportions and details characteristic of Victorian conservation area architecture. From stately detached houses to the cosy intimacy of terraced homes, each element contributes to a cohesive and timeless aesthetic.
The project’s success was underpinned by a collaborative approach, engaging with the local authority and a team of specialists, including planning consultants, heritage experts, tree consultants, and highways consultants.