Our brief for this project was to create a new versatile studio for a family living in a listed school building in the village of Kelvedon, Essex, with exceptional acoustics for the owner to enjoy their hi-fi and record collection.

We developed a design, which relates to the local vernacular of black painted stable blocks, but has a very bright and contemporary interior. The studio comprises of a double-height living/media area, a separate exercise room and shower/WC, as well as a mezzanine for guest accommodation.

The structure is formed from a timber-frame with precast beam block floor, clad with a handmade clay tile roof and black painted timber feather boarding. Internal finishes include white painted walls with acoustic panelling and roof beams with European oak flooring. Included in the build is an under floor heating system, programmable lighting and audio-visual equipment.