Category: Interior Design

12
Nov

A riverfront Townhouse reorientated to focus on the Swan River

Posted by / Interior Design

Riverside Refurbishment | Architects for Perth, Australia | Claremont, Perth

Located in Claremont, Perth, a riverside townhouse is a coveted property for its idyllic location on the banks of the Swan River. However, after purchasing the townhouse, the clients realized that it had lost its 1970s charm and required refurbishment. To achieve this, forresterarchitects planned to enliven the simple interior with period fixtures and fittings, while creating a modern open-plan environment.

To begin with, the upper floor bedrooms were reconfigured to provide simple ensuite facilities, thereby enhancing the functionality of the space. forresterarchitects then reoriented the living room, kitchen, and dining space to form a new focal point for the house, which would be the ever-changing Swan River. This would create a seamless connection between the interior and the exterior, offering the clients a stunning view of the river. The incorporation of period fixtures and fittings added character and warmth to the space, while the modern open-plan design ensured a seamless flow between the various living areas. The reconfiguration of the upper floor bedrooms ensured that the space was functional and met the clients’ requirements.

The refurbishment created a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern design, offering the clients a comfortable and elegant living space that they could enjoy for years to come. forresterarchitects ensured that the design was in harmony with the location, and the end result was a beautiful riverside home that was both functional and visually appealing.

21
Mar

An new outrigger extension added to a townhouse in the Keystone Conservation Area

Posted by / Interior Design

Keystone Townhouse  | Architects for Islington | Kings Cross, London

forresterarchitects have obtained planning permission for a rear outrigger extension for a Keystone Conservation Area townhouse located near Kings Cross, London. The extension will provide additional accommodation and allow for the reconfiguration of the house to achieve a reasonable level of living space. To create this space, the existing master bathroom will be replaced with a new bedroom on the second floor. However, this will require the relocation of the house’s sanitary provision to another area without altering the existing floor plan.

The new rear outrigger extension will include a new shower room and a new bathroom, both accessible from each half landing and entered through the existing stairwell. This solution will provide additional space for the family without compromising the existing floor plan. Keystone Conservation Area is an area with a rich history and unique architecture, and forresterarchitects will ensure that the new extension complements the surrounding buildings.

The design will be carefully considered, and the materials chosen will be in keeping with the area’s traditional style. forresterarchitects will also work closely with the client to ensure their needs are met while adhering to the conservation area consent. By collaborating with the client, the team will create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

 

27
Mar

A mezzanine loft is added to a Belsize Park townhouse roof space.

Posted by / Interior Design

Townhouse Mezzanine  | Architects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

To the top of a fine detached house in Belsize Park, the windows are under-sized and the bedroom spaces seem a secondary consideration; it was likely to be accommodation for house staff. Through a number of feasibility studies, we have highlighted the potential to provide an additional floor within the loft space. Our intention is to open the roof space and provide a modern loft style environment. This will provide a more enlivened environment for the children’s bedrooms. The ceiling to each bedroom is sculpted to form a void created between the mezzanine. A new loft stair will provide a feature to the new open-plan loft room with the mezzanine structure will be incorporated into the existing roof structure.
16
Mar

A secret cottage in the garden.

Posted by / Interior Design

Cottage Mezzanine  | Architects for Camden | Highgate, North West London

Our client has a house in Highgate that comes with a cottage situated in the garden. Despite its unique features, the cottage has remained underutilized, and the clients have decided to upgrade it into a standalone accommodation for their in-laws. Additionally, the space will provide a study area for the client’s daughters and their friends, and can be used as a party venue following dinner parties or for watching films.

To achieve this, forresterarchitects plan to enliven the cottage mezzanine by orientating it to run the length of the cottage, ensuring it remains a visual connection to the ground floor. This will provide a dedicated study area with extra bedroom space. To increase the flexibility of the space, clever joinery will be incorporated to conceal the bed when not in use. The renovated cottage mezzanine will serve as a multifunctional space that can accommodate the in-laws when they visit, and also provide a study area for the children. The clients can also use it as a venue for parties or for watching films, thereby utilizing the space to its full potential. The incorporation of clever joinery will ensure that the space can be transformed seamlessly from a bedroom to a study area or party venue, providing maximum flexibility for the clients.

Overall, the refurbishment of the cottage mezzanine will provide the clients with a versatile space that can be utilised in various ways. forresterarchitects have planned the renovation carefully, taking into consideration the need for flexibility and the unique features of the cottage. The result will be a modern, functional space that will enhance the clients’ living experience.

02
Mar

Our ‘butterfly’ roof is featured in Dezeen.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions, House Refurbishment, Interior Design

Save The London Roof | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, Hackney

The London butterfly roof is fast disappearing! As people don’t move and improve their homes, converting the roof space no longer protects the distinct parapet roofline. Keen to avoid the mundane lean-to extension, the new rear extension is a modern interpretation of the traditional London Roof form.
 
 
The roof provides an enlivened architectural language to the rear gardens of this mid-terraced house in North London. The ‘butterfly’ roof is expressed as exposed timber rafters. It provides a dynamic architectural feature and natural warmth to the living room. The original ceiling height was too low for a living room so it was necessary to excavate to create a more generous room volume. The new living floor level has been reduced to provide a ceiling height more in keeping with the rest of the house.
 
A new wood-burning stove provides a focal point to the living room. A new library wall which hangs from the timber rafters occupies one side of the living room. In the evening the lighting is subtle and located with indirect spotlights and avoids the need for pendant lights hanging in the room.
 
As part of the refurbishment works the entire ground floor has been reconfigured. The kitchen has moved from the back of the house and has been relocated between the new living room and the dining room. The kitchen avoids high-level cupboards with two long counters providing an extensive work surfaces area to each side. The dining room has moved to the bay fronted room overlooking the street. The dining room retains many of the traditional decorative features expected of a Victorian terrace house. The colour scheme is bold and is complimented by the addition of a modern 1950’s furniture and light fittings. The dining room is now orientated for breakfast with the sun rising from the East. To the West, a large hexagonal glass window frames views of the small garden for the setting sun in the evening.
10
Dec

Our non-conformist house extension is shortlisted for Don’t Move, Improve! 2016

Posted by / Interior Design

Don’t Move Improve | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

Shortlisted by New London Architecture for a Don’t Move Improve award. A modern interpretation of the London Roof it provides a modern and unique language for the rear of the mid terraced house. The roof structure is expressed as exposed timber rafter with a plywood ceiling which adds a simple but natural warmth to the interior. The roof construction avoids the traditional roof construction of slate tile. Instead, a single polymeric roof membrane is used to provide a well insulated lightweight warm roof construction.
 
As part of the reconfiguration works the kitchen has moved into the middle of the house floor plan. A new open plan galley kitchen provides a better connection between the lounge to the rear and the dining room. The dining room is now orientated for the early morning sun-rise to the East and ideal for breakfast. A large hexagonal glass window frames views of the small urban garden from the living room to the West.
04
Sep

A new lease of life for a fine Art Deco mansion block flat.

Posted by / Interior Design

Art Deco Mansion | Architects for Wandsworth | Balham, South West London

forresterarchitects has submitted a remodelling proposal for a mansion block in Balham, South West London. The building is a fine example of Art Deco architecture, and the proposed design seeks to enhance its existing features while resolving some of the issues that the client has faced.

The existing configuration of the mansion block was deemed to be functional, but several issues needed to be resolved. A new kitchen layout and reconfigured bathrooms were the client’s top priority. The proposed design seeks to provide a modern and functional living space while retaining the building’s Art Deco charm. forresterarchitects attention to detail and expertise in architectural design ensures that the proposed remodelling will enhance the existing features of the mansion block. forresterarchitects understanding of the building’s unique architectural style is evident in every aspect of the proposed design. The proposed new kitchen layout is designed to be both practical and stylish, with modern appliances and ample storage space. The reconfigured bathrooms will also feature modern fixtures and fittings, while retaining the building’s Art Deco charm.

forresterarchitects commitment to sustainable design is evident in the proposed remodelling, with features such as energy-efficient lighting and heating systems. forresterarchitects attention to detail and expertise in architectural design ensures that the proposed remodelling will provide a modern and functional living space while retaining the building’s Art Deco charm.

26
Jan

Absent_The School Library!

Posted by / Interior Design

School Library | Architects for Hackney | forrester architects

A school in Stoke Newington recently lost its library to the IT room, but the new Head Teacher plans to change that and has enlisted the help of  forresterarchitects to re-establish the library for the children to enjoy and focus on reading. A design feasibility proposal has been approved, and the library works will take place over the Easter half-term. The project involves starting from scratch, with only the four walls of the classroom remaining.

To keep up with evolving technologies, the library will feature a mixture of paper and electronic media, and bespoke furniture will be arranged to create three informal reading zones with easy access to bookshelves. The bookshelves will be accessible to all ages, and can be moved aside when needed to allow for a large seating area focused on a whiteboard. The goal is to provide a library that reflects the school ethos of inspiring, developing, and nurturing every child to have the confidence to learn. The project is a departure from the recent trend of schools focusing on technology and digital media over physical books, and aims to promote a love of reading among the students. The design is intended to create a welcoming and comfortable environment that encourages students to spend time in the library and develop a passion for books.

The project is a collaborative effort between the school and forresterarchitects, who have expertise in designing spaces for education. The library will be an important resource for the school and the community, providing a space for learning and fostering a love of reading in the next generation.

16
Jun

A duplex refurbishment to a second penthouse in St Johns Wood.

Posted by / Interior Design

Duplex Penthouse Refurbishment | Architects for Westminster | St John’s Wood, North West London

forresterarchitects have successfully completed the refurbishment of a duplex penthouse in St. John’s Wood, North West London, the second penthouse in a prestigious development for the same client. The new apartment required a fresh approach to enliven the space and make it a desirable investment property.

forresterarchitects opted for a simple, muted palette to suit the client’s taste, which creates a calming atmosphere and allows the apartment’s luxury features to shine. An open plan configuration was retained from the previous refurbishment, which maximizes the sense of space and natural light in the apartment. In contrast to the previous Rococo interior, the new design features a sleek, modern aesthetic that provides a sense of vitality to the apartment. This is achieved through the use of clean lines, minimalist detailing, and contemporary finishes. The result is a sophisticated and stylish living space that will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers or renters. The duplex layout of the apartment offers a sense of privacy and separation between the living and sleeping areas. The upper level features a master suite with a spacious bedroom, dressing area, and ensuite bathroom, while the lower level includes a second bedroom and bathroom, along with an open plan living, dining, and kitchen area.

Overall, forresterarchitects have once again demonstrated their expertise in creating stylish and functional living spaces that meet the needs of their clients. The new duplex penthouse in St. John’s Wood is a testament to their skill and creativity, offering a sleek and modern living space that is both luxurious and practical. forresterarchitects have successfully created a beautiful and functional living space that is sure to be a desirable investment property for years to come.

04
May

An new feature wall to an Art Deco flat.

Posted by / Interior Design

 Art Deco Flat Refurbishment | Architects for Wandsworth | Balham, South West London

forresterarchitects have completed a stunning refurbishment of a third-floor Art Deco flat located in a prestigious mansion block in Balham, South West London. The flat’s existing configuration was largely functional but presented some issues that needed to be resolved, and were tasked with finding solutions that would improve the space’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

One of the key features of the new design is a striking feature wall that provides a central focus for the flat. This wall can be easily circumnavigated to access the new kitchen layout and the reconfigured bathrooms, which were a priority for the client. The wall is not only a visually striking element of the design but also helps to divide the space into different zones, providing a sense of privacy and separation where needed. forresterarchitects worked closely with the client to create a new layout that would maximise the flat’s potential and address the issues that had been identified. The new design is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, with a contemporary feel that complements the Art Deco features of the building.

 The project has breathed new life into the flat, and the addition of the feature wall provides a striking focal point that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the design. The new layout also offers improved functionality, making the flat more practical and user-friendly for its occupants. The Art Deco flat in Balham now offers a perfect balance of style and functionality, providing its occupants with a beautiful and practical home that meets all of their needs.

See other projects in your Borough:

Havering New Zealand Colchester Tower Hamlets Haringey Hertsmere Cambridge Romford Yorkshire South Bucks Lewisham Yorkshire Dales National Park Norfolk Broads AONB Western Australia Oxford Jersey Côte d'Azur Barnet Cotswolds AONB Woking Waltham Forest Hammersmith & Fulham Brent Balham Newham Southwark Feature Lambeth Westminster Kensington & Chelsea Islington Hackney Camden

Project Type:

New Build Commercial Interior Design Extensions & Conversions House Refurbishment Listed Buildings & Conservation