Three years ago, we shared the story of our work on two rare and beautiful Lutyens properties – one in Suffolk and one in Guildford, each with its own history and restoration needs. Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens, one of Britain’s most important architects, is best known for his Arts and Crafts houses, the Cenotaph in Whitehall, and his role in designing New Delhi. His country houses in particular show his exceptional ability to marry traditional design with the needs of the era.

The Guildford property we are working on perfectly reflects this ethos. The brief was to extend the house in a way that would feel as though it had always been part of Lutyens’ vision. Our original article explored Lutyens’ attention to detail; from the structural design to the interior fittings – and his ability to create timeless, harmonious homes. It also touched on the importance of respecting the historic fabric of these buildings while making them work for modern life.

Now, we’re pleased to share that work on the new extension is progressing well and is on track for completion by the end of the year. The annexe will be a carefully considered addition that blends seamlessly with the original architecture. The lower round floor will house a new shower room and cloakroom, while the ground floor will feature a garage and a generously sized bedroom. These will be connected by a linking vestibule, and we’re also transforming the former coal shed into a new plant room – a subtle but practical adaptation that supports the running of the home.

As always, our approach is to preserve and enhance the character of the property while ensuring it meets contemporary needs. By drawing on Lutyens’ own philosophy of designing ‘the whole package’ – structure, flow, and interior – we’re confident the finished result will respect the house’s history while securing its future.

We look forward to unveiling the completed project later this year and sharing how these sensitive changes have breathed new life into this exceptional home.

Below is an aerial video of the development that Shaun Soanes filmed and drawings from the project.