THE HILL

Following the successful completion of a domestic extension at the neighbouring site, a similar job was commissioned next door. Again this is a privately owned site with the same basic configuration as it ’s neighbours. The house is Regency period with a single storey over semi-basement.

The Client required a new kitchen, utility room and additional living  and sleeping spaces, as well as a complete reconfiguration of the basement level and restoration of the period rooms at ground floor level.

The Client had  previously received a grant of planning permission to extend out along the northern boundary wall. This provided a precedent for developing this zone. Accordingly, the bulk of the extension moves down the north half of the site, working hard not to protrude unduly above the boundary walls.

Whilst the interior of the existing house is carefully treated to preserve its notable period fabric, the extension is realised as a series of contemporary white volumes that tumble down towards the garden to the rear. Despite the variety of volumes, a coherency is maintained externally by using a restrained palette of materials; stucco walls, delicately detailed zinc capping, iroko framed windows and decking, and recycled granite treads and paving.

The extension is constructed entirely from timber. Concealed timber trusses are cantilevered from the structural iroko mullions to create the open corner.  The sliding sections beneath allow the dining area to open entirely to the decked area and the garden beyond. 

Carefully positioned roof lights and large glazed sections draw light into, and releases views from, all new and existing areas to the rear of the house.