THE BLOG

10
Dec

A childhood retreat is to be rebuilt as a legacy for the family in Nice, France.

Posted by / New Build

New Build House | Architects for Les Issambres | Nice, France

Forrester architects are working on a new build house in Les Issambres, Nice, France. The new house is set in the landscape due to the rolling terrain and the changes in level across the site are dramatic. A series of interlinked pavilions are proposed and are cut into the natural fall in the landscape. The cuts in the landscape provide routes around the house and provide natural terraced areas for sitting, eating and relaxing. The garden landscapes beyond the terraces provide a dialogue between the inside and outside of the house.
 
The land on which the house sits is long established, well located and desirable. It has been in the family for over thirty years and the house and the land could be sold in its current undeveloped state. The house in its current state is close to a state of disrepair and will be demolished. In its current state to patch and repair the house will be problematic. Only the lower ground floor capable of being retained without falling down during the refurbishment works. In essence, a more cost effective route would be to demolish the house and rebuild. This will result in a larger new-build house. With improved construction, it will offer an investment for the younger generations.
 
Current property sales state that a 5 bed Villa property in the location are on the market listed in the region of £3m.  Forrester architects have designed a house to suit the family’s requirements. and provide holiday accommodation for the whole family. When the house is not required it can be offered to the rental market. Currently, a 5 bed Villa will provide a rental income of circa 5000 euros per week.
08
Nov

A non-conformist London roof returns to Stoke Newington.

Posted by / House Refurbishment, Extensions & Conversions

Rear Extension and House Refurbishment | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects have completed a full house refurbishment to a fine Victorian terraced house in Stoke Newington. The house had not been decorated for many years and a refurbishment was well overdue.  A new non-conformist rear extension was proposed. A modern interpretation of the London Roof provides the extension with a unique language for the house. The roof structure is expressed as exposed timber joist with a plywood ceiling which adds a simple but natural warmth to the interior. A full architectural service was provided from inception through to contract administration and completion. 

The roof construction avoids a traditional cold roof construction of slate tile and rafter. Instead a single ply polymeric roof membrane provides a lightweight well-insulated alternative. A large hexagonal glass window frames views of the small urban garden from the living room.

As part of the reconfiguration works the kitchen has been moved into the middle of the house. A new open plan galley kitchen provides a connection between the lounge and the dining room which has moved to the front bay windowed room.  The dining room is now orientated for the early morning sun-rise to the East and perfect for breakfast. Other works to the house involve the conversion of the original roof space to provide a traditional loft conversion. This adds a new floor of accommodation for guests. A wet-room shower room has been located on the top floor landing to avoid losing any bedroom space. The house was configured as a three bedroom house now provides five bedrooms.  As part of the refurbishments works the entire house has been rewired with new plumbing throughout. Each room has been provided with hard-wired CAT 5 data connectivity.

 

05
Sep

A new garden studio for fashionable Notting Hill.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Two Bed Studio | Architects for Kensington & Chelsea | West London

forresterarchitects has recently submitted a planning application for a new detached two bed studio in Notting Hill, West London. The aim of the project is to provide extra studio accommodation within the rear garden, whilst respecting and contributing to the character of the site and its immediate environment.

The proposed concept design offers a modern architectural solution, with the new structure being orientated to capture the south-facing aspect to enhance the garden environment and create a visual dialogue between the studio and the garden beyond. The studio itself is designed to be detached from the main house, offering a sense of privacy and a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The design of the studio has been carefully considered to ensure that it is sympathetic to the existing architecture of the site, whilst also incorporating modern features and amenities. The building has been designed with a contemporary aesthetic, featuring clean lines and a minimalist design that is both functional and stylish. Large windows allow for ample natural light to flood into the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Inside, the studio is designed to provide comfortable and functional living space for its inhabitants. The two-bed studio offers flexibility, with one bedroom being used as a guest room or office space. The open-plan living and kitchen area provides a spacious and inviting space for relaxation and entertaining, whilst also offering modern amenities and appliances.

Overall, the design of the two-bed studio reflects forresterarchitects commitment to creating modern and innovative architectural solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The project demonstrates the studio’s ability to blend contemporary design with traditional architecture, whilst also taking into account the specific needs and requirements of their clients.

01
Aug

Listed Building Consent for a Grade II Church in Denmark Hill.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

Listed Building Consent | Architects for Southwark | Denmark Hill, South East London

forresterarchitects have recently submitted Listed Building Consent for the interior refurbishment of a Grade II Chapel. The project proposes the installation of a replacement screen within the foyer. The screen configuration will remain as the current screen, with large double doors that open onto the Lobby from the Church Meeting Room.
 
The newly designed foyer screen improves visibility between the Meeting Room and the Entrance Foyer. It establishes connectivity to the Chapel. Given the historical setting, the proposed screen has been designed to be a sympathetic addition. Being both carefully proportioned and made from high-quality materials, the oak frames and polished-brass detailing enhance the visual and architectural character of the vestibule.
 
Significantly the proposal has been designed to have a minimal impact on the existing fabric of the building. Sustainability has been considered as part of the submission. It is more difficult in historic buildings but not impossible for sensitive interventions. Previous improvements have been installed in Grove Chapel’s desire to reduce heat losses and increase the energy efficiency of the building yet retaining a welcoming appearance to visitors of the Chapel.
04
Jul

A double height volume to a maisonette refurbishment in the Dartmouth Park Conservation Area.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Maisonette Refurbishment | Architects for Camden | North West London

forresterarchitects has submitted a design feasibility report for the maisonette refurbishment of a desirable maisonette in Dartmouth Park, which forms part of an imposing end-of-terrace Victorian house in North West London. The property is bursting at the seams, and the client wants to reconfigure the internal layout without moving out.

The current configuration of the maisonette comprises two bedrooms with a south-facing aspect. However, the proposed plan aims to completely reconfigure the internal layout to realise the property’s full potential. The bedrooms will be relocated to the rear of the property, while the main living spaces will be moved to the rear. One of the key design features of the proposal is the creation of an open plan double height space that opens onto the rear garden. This design will bring in ample natural light and create a spacious, airy feel in the property. The new layout will allow the client to enjoy better use of space and make the most of the property’s potential. The property’s location in Dartmouth Park, North West London, makes it an ideal candidate for architectural projects. Forrester Architects’ design feasibility report demonstrates their commitment to creating modern living spaces while preserving the character of the building.

The proposed design aims to reconfigure the internal layout completely, with the creation of an open plan double height space that opens onto the rear garden as a key feature. The renovation is a perfect example of how modern living spaces can be created while preserving the character of a historic property in a desirable location.

See other projects in your Borough:

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

Project Type:

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