Heritage Living Reimagined Through Intelligent Retrofit
Mapperley Park Conservation Area, Nottingham
Set within two acres of secluded woodland in the heart of Derbyshire, The Old Church Bungalow is an architectural curiosity—constructed in 1927 from the salvaged remains of a former Derby church. This unique two-bedroom property has been a peaceful retreat for its current resident since 1978, offering a tranquil home for both owner and dogs alike.
However, after more than four decades without major renovation, the home had begun to succumb to time and weather. Rotting timbers, a failing roof, and draughty single-glazed windows had compromised both comfort and efficiency. Off the gas grid and reliant on oil heating, the property was costly to run and difficult to keep warm—frequently feeling damp and uninviting in colder months.
In 2022, the resident was referred to Amber Valley Borough Council through Derbyshire County Council’s Warm Homes initiative. With funding support from the Government’s Home Upgrade Grant (HUG), S360 was appointed to undertake a full-scale energy-led restoration—transforming this distinctive property into a warm, efficient and comfortable home that would honour its history while securing its future.
Given the length of time since the property’s last intervention, a meticulous and comprehensive strategy was required to restore both performance and kerb appeal.
We began with the full replacement of all windows and doors, installing high-specification uPVC units designed to eliminate drafts, improve thermal retention and complement the bungalow’s character. These were followed by the complete removal and replacement of the original roof structure—including new insulation, fascias, soffits and guttering—ensuring longevity, weather resilience and thermal continuity.
Next, the solid external walls were wrapped in 90mm of premium insulation and finished in a protective triple-render system, coloured in a contemporary yet sympathetic grey. As part of our fabric-first approach, mechanical ventilation was also upgraded, with new extract fans fitted in the kitchen and bathroom to support healthy airflow and prevent condensation—essential in a fully insulated home.
Despite the complexity of the project, S360 coordinated all works during autumn 2023, working in close partnership with Amber Valley Borough Council and maintaining a respectful presence throughout. The resident’s cooperation and hospitality were deeply appreciated by the entire team, enabling a smooth and timely delivery just ahead of winter.
The result is a striking reinvention of a historic home—visually elevated and thermally transformed. The combined effect of new windows, doors, roof structure and external wall insulation has created an environment that now retains warmth efficiently, with improved air quality, reduced draughts and a tangible difference in day-to-day comfort.
Oil consumption is expected to reduce significantly, translating into an estimated annual energy saving of £320, and a carbon reduction of over 440kg of CO2 per year. The once cold and inefficient bungalow is now a quiet exemplar of sustainable restoration.
The homeowner commented: “Amber Valley Borough Council were extremely understanding and helpful in discussing and agreeing the work required. The service from S360 has been superb, all the tradesmen being very respectful, arriving on time and their work was always to the highest standard.”
A thoughtful transformation of a cherished building—bringing together heritage, precision and sustainability in one elegant result.
