Architectural Cases

Neil Dusheiko Architects has masterfully completed an architectural extension in Cambridgeshire, crafting a residence that subtly harmonizes with its historic surroundings. The project, known as Church House, is a testament to sensitive design, where every detail, from material choices to spatial layouts, is informed by the commanding presence of an adjacent Grade-II* listed Gothic church. This thoughtful intervention not only provides modern living spaces but also creates a captivating visual connection with the ecclesiastical landmark, fostering a profound sense of place and dialogue between the old and the new.

Harmonious Integration of Past and Present

The Church House extension by Neil Dusheiko Architects exemplifies a delicate balance between contemporary design and historical preservation. Situated in a conservation area, the project meticulously respects the existing fabric of the home and its environment. The design team ingeniously incorporated the Gothic church into the architectural narrative, using its grandeur as a focal point to shape the extension's aesthetic and functional aspects. This approach resulted in a home that feels both deeply rooted in its heritage and vibrantly modern, offering its inhabitants a unique living experience. The main dwelling and an accompanying coach house underwent a significant transformation, with their internal arrangements, access points, and material selections all carefully considered to complement the revered church.

This architectural endeavor is a 'quiet dialogue' between distinct eras, merging the elegance of the past with the demands of present-day living. The studio director emphasized the aspiration to unite three unique elements—the main house, the coach house, and the Grade II*-listed church—into a cohesive spatial arrangement. This harmonious 'trinity' is linked through careful landscaping and skyward views, fostering a gentle interplay across the property. Due to its protected status, the front façade of the residence largely remained untouched, preserving its historical integrity. The new extension is discreetly positioned at the rear, ingeniously housing a sunken dining area. This strategic placement ensures that the contemporary additions blend seamlessly with the existing structure while offering fresh perspectives on the surrounding landscape and the majestic church.

Thoughtful Design and Enriched Living Spaces

The interior of the Church House extension showcases an exquisite blend of materials and spatial innovation, designed to enhance the living experience while maintaining a connection to the external environment. Pale brickwork, consistent with the existing home, extends into the interior of the extension, creating a sense of continuity. This is complemented by a ceiling adorned with oak beams, a deliberate choice that echoes the timber elements found within the nearby church hall, thereby forging a material link between the residence and its historic neighbor. Despite its modest size, the extension prompted a comprehensive rethinking of the home's original layout, allowing for optimal views of the church to be instantly accessible upon entering through a spacious, open-plan kitchen area.

The reconfigured layout features a sequence of living areas thoughtfully arranged towards the front of the home, while the upper floor maintained much of its original structure, albeit with significant upgrades. A new en-suite bathroom was introduced for the primary bedroom, and all interior finishes were meticulously updated to ensure a cohesive and contemporary aesthetic throughout the property. The dining room emerges as a pivotal feature of the design, distinguished by expansive glazing that perfectly frames the church tower, creating a captivating visual centerpiece. The floor of this area is subtly lowered, resulting in a more intimate ceiling height that further accentuates the sense of enclosure and connection to the view. With the garden wrapping around two sides, this space becomes an immersive environment, intrinsically linked to its unique surroundings and embodying the architects' commitment to site-specific design. The adjacent coach house was also transformed, now serving as a versatile space that can function as a playroom, studio, or garden room, complete with oak joinery matching the main house and built-in window seats offering views of the garden and church.

Shape the Future of Design: Enter Dezeen Awards 2026!

Meet Aziza Chaouni: Championing Sustainable Architecture

Moroccan architect Aziza Chaouni, director of SoNo Lab and founder of Aziza Chaouni Projects, joins the architecture panel. Her work and research are deeply rooted in sustainable design and adaptive reuse, particularly within the Global South. Chaouni has an impressive portfolio, collaborating with organizations like the World Monuments Fund on heritage projects, such as the Brutalist La Maison du Peuple in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Her innovative contributions have been showcased internationally at prestigious events like the Venice Architecture Biennale and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.

Britt Moran: Crafting Timeless Interiors with Historical Flair

Milan-based designer Britt Moran, co-founder of Dimore Studio, will lend his expertise to the interiors judging panel. Known for a distinctive style that weaves historical influences with contemporary aesthetics, Dimore Studio creates interiors that are both luxurious and narrative-rich. Their recent projects include the lavish interior of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express train and a Mediterranean-modernist renovation of a Saint-Tropez apartment. Dimore Studio's excellence was recognized last year when they won the 2025 interior designer of the year at the Dezeen Awards.

Benni Allan: An Innovative Force in Interior Design

Joining Britt Moran on the interiors panel is Benni Allan, founder and director of London-based studio EBBA. Allan's practice is characterized by a hands-on approach and a focus on materiality. Notable works include a radiant canopy for Houghton Festival, a coffee shop nestled within London's bustling Holborn tube station, and a minimalist raw-basalt home extension. Allan also extends his creative vision to furniture design, with collections such as sculptural, curved pieces crafted from solid oak, demonstrating his versatility and artistic depth.

Felicia Hung: Illuminating Design with Materiality and Community

Felicia Hung, co-founder of the New York City-based lighting brand In Common With, will contribute her insights to the design panel for Dezeen Awards 2026. Alongside co-founder Nick Ozemba, Hung explores the intrinsic qualities of materials, often utilizing ceramics to produce bespoke pieces, such as a series of handmade clay shades created in collaboration with artist Ariana Heinzman. In 2024, Hung and Ozemba expanded their creative footprint by opening Quarters, a dynamic concept store and community hub that hosts events and showcases installations and collections from various designers.

Seize the Opportunity: Submit Your Project Now!

The call for entries for Dezeen Awards 2026 is still open. Professionals in architecture, interiors, and design are encouraged to submit their projects before the deadline on May 27. This is an unparalleled chance to gain global recognition and join the ranks of past award-winning innovators. For those seeking more information or ready to submit, the official entry platform is accessible, offering a streamlined process to showcase your work to the world. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an esteemed global design celebration.