A conversion of two Holkham Cottages in Burnham Market, designed by award winning architect Thomas Faire.
A pair of historic cottages renovated into a refined coastal home, blending traditional Norfolk materials with contemporary, sustainable living.
Project Overview
Originally constructed in 1903 as two agricultural cottages near the Holkham Estate, this exceptional property has been thoughtfully transformed into a single, elegant residential dwelling. Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Norfolk, the home balances heritage character with contemporary living, delivering a refined coastal residence overlooking the sea.
Heritage & Setting
Positioned within one of the UK’s most celebrated and picturesque landscapes, the dwelling retains its traditional architectural identity while responding sensitively to its surroundings. The design preserves the essence of the original cottages, ensuring the building remains in harmony with the local vernacular and coastal setting.
Architecture & Materials
Externally, the property embraces a timeless, traditional aesthetic, constructed using locally sourced Norfolk flint, re-used existing brickwork, and second-hand pantiles that honour the building’s history. These materials not only reinforce the connection to place but also contribute to a sustainable approach through reuse and low embodied energy.
Interior Living
Internally, the home has been completely reimagined to provide a modern, high-end living experience. The layout includes a large living room, front hall with adjoining boot room, a spacious kitchen and dining area, and a cosy snug, all designed to maximise comfort and flow.
Below ground, a well-appointed basement houses a utility room, storage areas, a private gym, and a dedicated wine cellar. The upper floors accommodate five generously sized bedrooms, creating a home that is both functional and luxurious.
Sustainability & Performance
The design integrates modern principles of energy efficiency while maintaining the building’s traditional character. Natural light and ventilation are maximised throughout, while sustainable and reclaimed materials, including timber cladding, are used wherever possible. The result is a home that achieves high environmental performance without compromising on design quality.
Design Vision
Designed by the award-winning Thomas Faire Architect, the project successfully bridges past and present, combining heritage architecture with contemporary detailing to create a distinctive and enduring coastal home.
“Transforming two historic agricultural cottages into a single, high-end coastal home has been a rewarding challenge. Respecting the original structure while introducing modern construction methods, sustainable materials, and high-performance standards required careful planning and craftsmanship throughout. The result is a home that delivers a truly exceptional standard of living.” Daniel Grocott, Director
