The Old Bakery, a Grade II* listed 14th-century building in one of West Sussex’s most beautiful villages, is undergoing a sensitive and deeply considered restoration by REAFE STUDIO. Once a proud medieval bakery, the structure has been compromised by damp, a leaking roof and decades of poorly judged modern interventions. Our work focuses on reinstating lost Georgian details, revealing the original timber frame and using traditional materials to protect the building’s historic character. Supported by a full 3D digital twin, the restoration blends heritage craftsmanship with modern conservation practices to ensure this remarkable building thrives for centuries to come.

Perched high above the River Ouse with panoramic views towards Ashdown Forest, this contemporary writing studio was designed as a sanctuary for a bestselling novelist seeking calm, light and creative focus. Completed in Spring 2024, the project replaces an unusable conservatory with a bold architectural form crafted from charred Yakisugi timber, heritage zinc and corten steel. Inside, vaulted ceilings, warm oak panelling and a polished concrete floor create a serene, atmospheric workspace. Built using SIPS construction for performance and precision, the studio balances modern expression with contextual sensitivity in the South Downs National Park.

Designing within the South Downs National Park — especially with Grade II listed buildings — demands sensitivity, collaboration and a deep respect for context. At REAFE STUDIO, our recent projects in Lewes and the surrounding landscape, including 29 Friars Walk, No.1 Windover Crescent, Bluebell Cottage and No.1A Mount Place, demonstrate how thoughtful design can preserve heritage while enabling contemporary living. By working closely with conservation officers, engaging early in the planning process, and using a landscape-led approach, we create architecture that sits comfortably within its setting. Each project balances history, craftsmanship and modern functionality to enhance both home and place.

REAFE STUDIO reimagines a Grade II listed townhouse in the heart of Lewes with a sensitive, conservation-led redesign. The project adds a modern two-storey rear extension, enhanced natural light, and restored heritage features using traditional materials. Thoughtful planning, heritage collaboration and contemporary design bring new life to this historic South Downs home.

No.1 Windover Crescent is a sensitive yet ambitious redesign of a 1930s bungalow on the edge of Lewes. REAFE STUDIO retained the original ground-floor structure to preserve embodied carbon while introducing a new first floor aligned with neighbouring ridge heights. A light-filled southern extension, vaulted roof lights and carefully positioned glazing transform the home’s atmosphere and flow. A compact glazed link forms the new entrance, connecting old and new volumes with clarity. Despite a 200% increase in internal space, only six percent of the plot is newly built, ensuring a landscape-led, sustainable and contextually respectful family home.