Old School
A sensitive transformation of a former Victorian school and house into one coherent family home, bringing back its character while making every space work for modern life. A story of family, history and hard work.
Services
Full stage design, planning submission, visualisations
Status
Phase 1 - completed, Phase 2 2026
Location
Worcester
Year
2025
A building with a real family connection, it needed new life breathed back into its old walls. The Schoolmaster’s House and former classroom sat as two separate worlds. Our approach is a careful restoration that stitches these parts back together, creating one coherent home while keeping the character that makes it special.
Design Approach
Blending between old and new
Old School started with an honest appraisal of what could be saved. Where parts of the former school have been compromised, our approach is to rebuild on the existing footprint, reusing salvaged bricks and carefully matching new work so the building feels repaired and valued, not replaced.
A clear three-phase plan
To make the project manageable, we shaped it into three logical phases. Phase I focused on the extension and renovation of the Schoolmaster’s House, creating a comfortable, working home first. Phase II brings the old school building into the plan, unlocking more space once the initial works are settled. Phase III completes the picture with the annexe and the approval for a self contained separate dwelling.
Making a statement, rooted in the building’s story
At the heart of the main school building, the new timber roof is designed to be both sculptural and warm—an exposed structure that nods to the uplifting feel of traditional school halls, while creating a real architectural “wow” moment. It’s a reminder that sensitive renovation doesn’t have to be quiet: the best interventions can celebrate the old, add delight, and give the home a memorable new centre of gravity.Sustainable, sensitive and future-ready
Light, flow, and a home that works day-to-day
The plan is about making spaces that can adapt and grow with a family. A bright, open living space connected to the garden, with a practical entrance and a clear, compact layout. Good design here is simple spaces that feel generous, but function effortlessly.
Thinking about renovating an old building?
Old properties carry stories, renovating them is about honouring what makes them special, while shaping spaces that work for modern life through careful detailing, clear planning strategy and a collaborative design process.
If you’re looking to reimagine a period home or heritage property, Built Together can help you explore what’s possible, from first ideas through to delivery.