Purcell Miller Tritton, leading architect and historic building consultant, has recently completed the renovation of Kennaway House, a two hundred year old Grade II* listed Regency house located in the picturesque seaside town of Sidmouth. The grand re-opening is due to take place on the weekend of 4th July 2009.
Built in 1812, it was the summer residence of the MP Baronet Sir John Kennaway. In the 20th century, the house became an educational centre for the community until its chronic state of disrepair almost forced closure.
The total cost of the renovation was £950,000 and money for the project was donated by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Devon County Council amongst others. Members of the local community also managed to raise over £250,000 for the much needed repairs, demonstrating the value Kennaway House gives to the area.
The scale of the project was vast due to years of neglect and more recent poorly constructed additions to the house. Purcell Miller Tritton had to balance the goal of restoring the building back to its original grandeur with the need for enhanced educational facilities for the local area. A Conservation Management Plan and alteration proposals were developed and were approved by English Heritage. Building works commenced in July 2008.
The scale of the project soon became evident to the local community as major structural repairs were carried out. The timber frame and tiles of the roof were replaced and steel beams were inserted into the whole of the second floor to prolong the working life of the building well into the future. Features to widen access to the house were also incorporated, including a lift and disabled facilities.
Neil Wall, the Project Architect from Purcell Miller Tritton’s Bristol studio commented, ‘It’s been rewarding to draw on our considerable experience in the heritage sector to perform such a key role in restoring this important building which clearly plays such a vital role in the local community.’