51 Chapel Street

A Grade II Listed building, this property comprised of a commercial portion and domestic portion on the Ground floor, with domestic living accommodation over the first and second floors. The property was in a dilapidated state which required significant renovation along with patience and care for a building that was full of character and history. Being part of one of the oldest streets in Cornwall it was important to recognize the history it has been a part of. The street is only a handful that survived the Spanish invasion and ransacking of Penzance which saw most of the town burnt to the ground, as well as being part of the street at the start of Treasure Island, and most famed for where the Battle of Trafalgar was announced along with the death of Admiral Horatio Nelson.

With its history in mind any potential renovation and changes to be made would need to be sympathetic and benefit the property not detracting. Working closely with the client who just so happened to be a talented and published Interior Designer the designs went through many stages of development from concept through to planning, seeing most of the fabric of the property either renovated or rediscovered through careful uncovering as works progressed. One Item which gave the property the name of ‘The Crooked House’ was the original staircase. Worn over the centuries of countless persons climbing up and down the several flights of timber treads. Paint flecking off the handrail and foot divots polished by the countless shoes. The stairs were lovingly kept with minor renovation to retain it the way it was, and should you visit, we are sure that you will agree how graciously the new interlinks with the old seamlessly. The final designs sought the change of use of the commercial to be fully included as part of the domestic with a small extension to the side of the property to form a commercial element ensuring that the property retained its essence of providing a ‘Shop’ space for the local community.Being involved in a piece of history and being able to see it through from start to finish was a rewarding experience knowing that we have contributed to the history of this building that will last for further generations to come.

Architects: Kairos Architecture

Project Management: Linda Dannvin

Interior Design: Linda Dannvin

Photography: Linda Dannvin