Lounge Renovation in Grade II Listed Property Between Sudbury & Colchester
Lounge Renovation in a Historic Village Property Between Sudbury and Colchester
This carefully planned ground floor renovation was completed for Mr. and Mrs. P at their Grade II listed home in a historic village between Sudbury and Colchester. The work was carried out in full accordance with listed building regulations, with structural alterations calculated by qualified engineers and approved by the local building authority.
A key feature of the project was the sympathetic relocation of an original shop servery, a distinctive architectural element from the building’s former use. The counter and its surrounding framework, including the original timber joinery and panes of glass, were carefully dismantled and reinstated in a new position to better suit the updated layout. Every effort was made to preserve the character and integrity of the piece, retaining its handmade timber detailing and original glazing wherever possible. The repositioned servery now sits proudly within the lounge area, repurposed for modern living while remaining true to the history of the building.
Two internal walls were also removed to open up the ground floor, creating a more fluid and inviting living space. This structural work was undertaken under the supervision of a structural engineer, with all calculations and approvals handled in conjunction with the local building authority to comply with the property’s Grade II listed status.
To enhance both function and finish, a series of bespoke in-wall glass shelves were constructed within the lounge alcoves. Each shelf was tailored to its recess and fitted with discreet integrated LED lighting, providing soft ambient illumination and practical display space without detracting from the room’s period features.
Flooring was upgraded throughout the ground floor. Porcelain tiles were laid across the main thoroughfare areas with a Warmup underfloor heating system installed beneath for energy-efficient comfort. In the main lounge, wide board engineered oak flooring was chosen for its warmth and natural grain, adding visual softness and helping to bridge the old and new aspects of the property.
Original timber sliding sash windows were fully refurbished as part of the project, preserving the traditional external appearance while subtly improving performance.
Although a new kitchen was installed as part of the overall scheme, the focus of this case study is the lounge area, where attention to detail, respect for the building’s heritage, and carefully considered modern updates all came together to deliver a truly unique and characterful living space. To see the kitchen part of the project please click here.
From structural design to final finishes, TCI Suffolk provided a full-service renovation with a strong focus on conservation, functionality and lasting quality.
Work in progress, including structural work with steel beams and intermediate bracing
Project Specifications:
Lounge Renovation – Between Sudbury and Colchester
Location
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Private residence situated between Sudbury and Colchester
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Renovation completed for Mr. and Mrs. P
Property Type and Compliance
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Grade II listed building
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Internal alterations completed in line with listed building consent and local authority approvals
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Structural steels specified and signed off by qualified structural engineers
Structural Works
- Removal of two internal partition walls to open up the space
- Repositioning of an original shop servery, including retention of original timber joinery and glazed panes
- Structural works completed in compliance with listed building regulations and approved by local authority
Key Features and Interior Finishes
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Original shop servery carefully dismantled and reinstated in a new location
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All original timber elements and glass panes preserved and reused wherever possible
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Bespoke in-wall glass shelving installed within lounge alcoves
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Integrated LED lighting added to shelving for ambient display use
- Refurbishment of original timber sliding sash windows to retain character and improve insulation
Flooring and Heating
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Porcelain floor tiles laid across the main living areas
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Warmup underfloor heating system installed beneath tiled flooring
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Wide board engineered oak flooring fitted in the main lounge area for warmth and contrast
Additional Works
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Supply and fit of a Second Nature / PWS kitchen (View here)
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Full project delivery including structural coordination, flooring, heating, and finishing details
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