Project Overview

Located on the high street in the heart of Chipping Norton, this Cotswolds project highlights North Oxford Developments’ ability to transform tired, outdated spaces into high-quality, multi-functional properties.

Undertaken for a long-standing client, this scheme involved the full refurbishment and reconfiguration of a former restaurant into two distinct, high-specification spaces: a front-facing commercial unit and a private residential living space to the rear. The result is a thoughtfully designed property that maximises both usability and value in a prime high street location.

Objectives and Goals

Having worked with this client on multiple successful projects, we were once again appointed to deliver a high-quality finish with careful attention to detail and programme.

The brief was to divide the existing building into two separate areas: a flexible office or retail space at the front, making the most of the high street frontage, and a self-contained living space at the rear. The aim was to create a clean, modern environment while overcoming the challenges associated with an older, heavily worn building.

Before the Project

The property had previously operated as a Thai restaurant and was in a very poor condition internally. The building showed clear signs of age, with uneven floors, dated services, and a layout that did not suit its intended future use.

Given its prominent position on Chipping Norton’s high street, it was essential that the redevelopment both enhanced the building’s internal functionality and elevated its overall standard.

Scope of Work

The project involved a full internal strip-out, reconfiguration, and high-specification refurbishment throughout.

Key elements included:

  • Division of the building into two distinct spaces:
    • A front commercial unit suitable for office or retail use
    • A rear residential living space
  • Structural and floor levelling works to address uneven existing floor levels
  • Installation of new electrical systems and upgrades throughout
  • Creation of a new kitchen within the rear living space
  • Construction of three new bathrooms, finished to a high standard
  • Installation of premium flooring, including marble and limestone finishes
  • Full redecoration and internal refurbishment across both areas
  • High-quality final fit-out, including fixtures and finishes aligned with a contemporary aesthetic

Challenges and Solutions

Working within an older Cotswold building on a busy high street presented several challenges, particularly in relation to the condition of the existing structure. Uneven floors required careful levelling and preparation to achieve the desired finish, while updating services demanded precise coordination within the constraints of the building.

Dividing the property into two functional spaces also required thoughtful planning to ensure both areas felt independent, practical, and well-proportioned.

Through careful sequencing and attention to detail, we were able to overcome these challenges and deliver a cohesive, high-quality result.

Results and Outcomes

The completed project has transformed a neglected former restaurant into a versatile, high-specification property in a prime Cotswolds location.

The front unit now offers an attractive and functional commercial space, benefiting from strong visibility on Chipping Norton’s high street, while the rear has been converted into a stylish and comfortable living environment finished with premium materials.

The use of marble and limestone flooring, combined with modern kitchens and bathrooms, has elevated the overall standard of the property, creating a refined and contemporary feel throughout.

Client Outcome

Delivered on programme and to a high standard, the project further strengthens our ongoing relationship with this long-standing client.

Their continued trust in North Oxford Developments reflects our commitment to quality, reliability, and consistent delivery across a range of project types. This scheme stands as another successful example of our ability to revitalise properties in sought-after locations such as the Cotswolds, combining practicality with high-end finishes.