Mathew Crawford Architects

Caburn Crescent | South Downs National Park

Overview

Situated on the outskirts of Lewes within the South Downs National Park, Caburn Crescent presented an opportunity for transformation. When our clients acquired the property, it was in a state of significant disrepair and in need of a complete renovation. They entrusted us to guide them through every step of the journey.

On the ground floor, the original front reception room was preserved, while new sliding pocket doors were added to seamlessly connect it with a newly reimagined kitchen and dining space. What was once a cramped and disconnected kitchen was opened up and extended into the garden, creating a spacious and light-filled heart of the home. The rear extension features large sliding doors leading to a sunken courtyard garden. It features an asymmetric pitched roof designed to meet the eaves of the existing garage. This form not only accommodates roof lights and solar panels but also floods the interior with natural daylight.

Upstairs, both bedrooms, the family bathroom, and the office were fully refurbished. A new staircase was introduced to access a thoughtfully designed loft conversion.

The loft extension forms a tranquil master suite, complete with a private ensuite shower room. The dual-aspect space offers views both front and back—large rooflights at the front frame stunning vistas across the South Downs, while a new dormer at the rear includes a Juliette balcony overlooking the secluded garden.

Both new extensions are unified through the use of standing seam zinc cladding, giving the home a crisp, contemporary finish that sits comfortably within its natural surroundings.

Sustainability

As part of the project, the clients aimed to enhance the building’s thermal performance and integrate sustainable energy solutions. We took a ‘fabric first’ approach—prioritising high-performance insulation to the ground floor, walls, and roof. Renewable energy was introduced through rooftop solar panels, while an air source heat pump provided a sustainable source of heating and hot water.

Sketch of Caburn Crescent, South Downs National Park / Lewes

What did our client say?

“Mathew Crawford Architects have given a highly professional service helping us through the complexity of design and concept but also the kafkaesque world of planning permission in the National Park”

Drawings