Modern Glass Extension Transforms Classic English Cottage

by Stefan Gheorghe

A traditional English cottage in Hampshire received a sleek, modern update with the addition of a 70-square-meter cantilevered glass extension designed by Stephen Marshall Architects. 

The classic facade belies the modern extension in the back.
The classic facade belies the modern extension in the back.

From the front, the ivy-covered facade maintains its classic charm, but from the back, a light-filled, open-plan living space and master bedroom reveal a striking contrast. The structure seamlessly connects indoors and outdoors with full-height glass walls, slate flooring that continues onto the terrace, and large oak doors that open to the garden.

Glass walls help the new section quite literally meld seamlessly with the outdoors
Glass walls help the new section quite literally meld seamlessly with the outdoors

The engineering behind the cantilevered glass corner required precise modeling and a hidden steel beam that supports the second story. The extension blends effortlessly into the landscape, with natural stone drainage and minimal visual interruption. Inside, flush lighting and minimal furnishings keep the focus on the views, while wooden shutters provide ventilation and sun control without compromising the minimalist design.

From the side the transition from classic to modern flows easily.
From the side the transition from classic to modern flows easily.

This thoughtful renovation balances old and new, preserving the original cottage’s character while introducing a functional, modern living space. The result is a home that embraces the countryside through smart design and transparency—offering comfort, light, and a strong connection to nature.

The opposite side of the house sticks to a classic English cottage garden.
The opposite side of the house sticks to a classic English cottage garden.
Glass walls open up the home for better enjoyment of the views.
Glass walls open up the home for better enjoyment of the views.
The living space seems like it is part and parcel of the landscape.
The living space seems like it is part and parcel of the landscape.
The walls seem to disappear when viewed from the side, capitalizing on the bucolic view
The walls seem to disappear when viewed from the side, capitalizing on the bucolic view
A closer look at the unique construction.
A closer look at the unique construction.
More natural light makes the sitting room feel airy.
More natural light makes the sitting room feel airy.
This feels as if the room is an extension of the outdoor patio
This feels as if the room is an extension of the outdoor patio.
Light fixtures that are flush with the ceiling enhancing the open feel
Light fixtures that are flush with the ceiling, enhancing the open feel.
Wooden shutters instead of standard windows open up for fresh air.
Wooden shutters instead of standard windows open up for fresh air.
The bed placement takes maximum advantage of the windows.
The bed placement takes maximum advantage of the windows.
A modest chair is tucked into the corner for seating
A modest chair is tucked into the corner for seating
Throughout each part of the extension, the focus is on the windows.
Throughout each part of the extension, the focus is on the windows.
The closet and the doorway are grouped together to open up more space for the window wall.
The closet and the doorway are grouped together to open up more space for the window wall.

Beautiful UK cottage

The existing cottage has an 'L' plan and the extension sits in the gap
The existing cottage has an ‘L’ plan and the extension sits in the gap
English Cottage Renovation Visually Fuses Indoors, Outdoors
English Cottage Renovation Visually Fuses Indoors, Outdoors

The post Modern Glass Extension Transforms Classic English Cottage appeared first on Homedit.

GET MORE INFORMATION

agent

John Bertsch

Agent | License ID: 02135471

+1(619) 518-5421

Name
Phone*
Message