Modece’s Studio

Our practice in the Old Fox Yard, in the heart of Stowmarket

Heritage Champion Award 2021

National finalist for ASBP Awards as part of the Old Fox Yard

Hemp in practice: hemp lime feature wall and hemp stalk research.

Located in the heart of Stowmarket in Suffolk, Unit 4 within The Old Fox Yard is the present premises of Modece’s own architectural practice. The project involved the restoration, refurbishment and adaptation of a Grade II listed timber-framed 17th-century coaching inn. The design approach was to creatively preserve, integrate and showcase its heritage value while pioneering sustainable construction techniques. The result is a modern working environment with a historical fabric & natural materials that accommodates the needs of a growing business and attracts a talented team to the small architectural practice.

In the wider picture, unit 4 is the linchpin to Modece’s vision towards the development of the Old Fox Yard as a vibrant cultural quarter for the town.

The conversion works for the building included revealing the 16th-century timber frame of the former stables and celebrating it within the new design. Only natural materials were used throughout to create a well-insulated and healthy space to work from.

Modece has been awarded the achievement of Suffolk Heritage Champion Award for the regeneration project of The Old Fox Yard in Stowmarket and shortlisted for the ASBP Awards 2022 in the ‘Project’ Category. Modece was also awarded the ‘Innovation Awards’ held by Babergh & Mid Suffolk District Councils.