THE JUDGES' REPORT

The Grange, Old Stevenage – Bronze Award for Best Renovation

'The work upon these buildings is the result of valuable co-operation between presentation, restoration and renovation. The work allowed the recording of information about methods of construction used at various times in this locality and has added to both knowledge and scolarship. This partnership between a commercial and responsible approach is important if lessons are to be learnt for the future.'

Extract from the judges' report, What House? Award

‘The Grange’ is set in approximately 2 acres of mature grounds within the Conservation Area of Old Stevenage. A former 16th century Coaching Inn, known as The Swann, it was a popular stop-over for travellers of the time, including Samuel Pepys the famous diarist.

Arranged around a courtyard, the surviving Grade II and Grade II* Listed buildings were of various styles and included Tudor oak frame, Tudor brickwork and Georgian facades. Through a sympathetic design and restoration process we were able to restore much of the original character and layout of the former Inn, retaining the original features.

The development created 8 townhouses and 6 apartments, and received the ‘Best Conversion’ Award 2000 from the Evening Standard and a Bronze Award for ‘Best Renovation’ from the What House? Awards.