Flood risks and planning hurdles didn’t deter the new owners from undertaking the ambitious restoration and extension of a former river signal station in Bristol. With no prior building experience, our clients embraced the challenge of transforming a derelict, quirky structure into a distinctive home by the water.
The property, featuring a striking three-metre-wide lookout tower and uninterrupted river views, was far from conventional. Despite the scale of the project and potential planning complications, the unique character and location proved irresistible.
Previously owned by Bristol City Council, the building was offered through a sealed bidding process starting at £250,000. One of the owners, with a background in housing and surveying, carried out thorough research and submitted the successful bid. The structure is believed to date back to the 1950s, with strong Art Deco influences evident in the curved tower, which originally served as a lookout for boats navigating the River Avon’s dramatic 15-metre tidal range.
At the time of purchase, the property was outdated and poorly insulated, with basic night storage heaters, surface-mounted wiring, and an inefficient layout. Determined to create a sustainable, energy-efficient home, our clients lived on-site during much of the renovation, designing a modern extension to increase space and functionality.
Despite not being listed, the building’s local significance and proximity to a historic Roman settlement meant the planning process was complex. Archaeological oversight was required during groundworks, though no significant finds were uncovered. A shallow raft foundation was used to minimize site disturbance.
A sympathetic two-storey rear extension was designed to blend with the original structure while maintaining its historic appearance from the river. The tower, previously inaccessible from inside the home, was integrated into the new floor plan by opening up the connection on both levels. A small semi-circular stairwell was also added to mirror the tower’s form and enhance access.
The newly expanded layout now spans 234m2 – almost double the original footprint – and includes a kitchen, hallway, utility, WC, and pool room on the ground floor, with a fourth bedroom and additional bathroom above. The master bedroom features a walk-in wardrobe and a balcony with river views.
To cope with the site’s limited access, it was decided that the extension would be built using the BecoWallform 313 system. The materials provided excellent thermal performance and were easy to transport. Clad in anodised aluminium, the extension complements the original brickwork while remaining visually distinct, in line with planning conditions.
Much of the work was carried out with the help of subcontractors and a project manager, including a family member who took on a central role during construction. To maximise natural light, wide bifold doors and new window openings were installed, replacing outdated white uPVC with sleek grey aluminium. The brickwork was treated with Stormdry masonry paint, and insulation was added throughout. These improvements boosted the home’s energy rating from F to C, significantly reducing annual bills.
The formerly derelict tower, now fully restored, includes a circular snug and dining space with curved, double-glazed windows. Internally, the design is minimalist and Scandinavian, with open-plan living, underfloor heating, laminate flooring, and a sleek kitchen with quartz worktops. Finishing touches, such as a reclaimed Victorian bath and solar panels, added character and efficiency.
Once overgrown, the garden was cleared and levelled to reveal stunning river views. Now, the house stands as a striking and much-photographed local landmark – an architectural gem brought back to life with care, creativity, and determination.