Private Residence – Hawkshaw, Bury

Contemporary House Extension in Bury

Set within the Green Belt on the outskirts of Bury, this substantial stone-built period property presented an opportunity to create a home better suited to modern family life, while respecting its traditional architecture and sensitive surroundings. PJH Architectural Services was appointed to rethink the original proposals, maximise the potential of the existing house and create a contemporary extension that enhanced both the layout and its connection with the surrounding gardens. When the clients approached PJH, planning permission had already been granted for an extension. However, having reviewed the scale and anticipated cost of the approved scheme, they decided to explore an alternative approach with fresh ideas and a renewed focus on how the property could work for their family.

Rather than amending the existing proposals, we reassessed the ground-floor layout, the family’s requirements and the relationship between the house and its extensive grounds. This allowed us to develop a more considered design, making better use of the available space while creating a stronger connection between the interior living areas and the garden.

Blending Traditional Stone with Contemporary Architecture

A key design decision was to create a clear distinction between the original period property and the new extension, rather than attempting to replicate the existing architecture.

PJH developed a contemporary single-storey extension incorporating extensive glazing and natural stone elements. The stone provides a visual connection with the original building, while the generous glazed areas introduce a lighter, more modern architectural character.

A low-profile flat roof further reduces the extension’s visual mass, allowing the new addition to sit comfortably alongside the substantial existing house while providing a distinctive contemporary contrast.

Creating a Connected Open-Plan Family Living Space

The redesigned ground floor centres on a generous open-plan dining and family area, supported by the kitchen and utility spaces. Additional accommodation includes an office and lounge, gym and music room, creating a more versatile layout tailored to the family’s everyday needs.

Extensive glazing plays a central role in the design, drawing natural light into the principal living spaces and opening up views across the surrounding grounds towards Holcombe Hill. Improved level access strengthens the connection between the interior, patio and garden, creating a more fluid transition between indoor and outdoor living.

Together, these changes transform how the ground floor functions, providing a brighter, more connected environment for family life, entertaining and relaxation.

Building Regulations Drawings and Construction Stage Support

PJH Architectural Services continued to support the project beyond the design stage, preparing detailed Building Regulations drawings and providing ongoing construction stage support as the works progressed on site.

Our Stage 4 service included monthly site attendance to review progress and workmanship against the approved architectural drawings, alongside regular communication with the client and contractor. Following each visit, we provided an email update outlining the works completed, the next stages of construction and any relevant actions required.

We also liaised with the contractor and Building Control throughout the project, helping to coordinate the information required at key stages of the build. Additional support included assistance with monthly valuations, coordination of the final Building Control inspection and a pre-completion snagging visit to identify items requiring attention before the project was finished.

This continued involvement helped maintain communication between the parties, address issues as they arose and support the delivery of the agreed design through to the later stages of construction.

Thinking of pursuing something similar to this project? Feel free to take a look at some of our blogs:

Designing With Flat Roofs – What To Consider
Natural Light Brings Eextra Life To Your Home
Choose The Right Designer For Your Project

If you need any advice on the first steps of designing and planning an external renovation project, extension or new build feel free to get in touch for a brief chat, we are here to help.

Email: enquiry@pjhas.co.uk

Tel: 0161 4600382