In the process of combining these two semi-detached cottages into one single dwelling, we were given the opportunity to improve the appearance and give a little more character to the building, which had originally been built in the 1980s.  To achieve this, we restyled the windows, gable details and chimney, and added brick arches to each end of the South facade. We added a veranda facing onto the garden, including a barbecue fireplace and chimney. We also detailed a new staircase. This meant an internal load-bearing wall had to be removed, so we worked closely with a structural engineer to ensure that the roof structure above would be adequately supported.