THE BLOG

01
Dec

A new artist studio in the Belsize Park Conservation Area.

Artist Garden Studio | Architects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

forresterarchitects have submitted a design feasibility proposal for an artist’s garden studio extension in the Belsize Conservation Area, Camden. The proposed design approach is inspired by the traditional garden pergola and aims to provide a modern architectural solution that blends seamlessly with the character of the site and its surrounding environment.

The proposed extension is designed as an accordion-like structure that expresses the client’s requirements and creates a visual dialogue between the studio and the garden. The orientation of the new structure is north/south, enhancing its interaction with the environment and respecting the site’s character. The proposed design aims to be discreet yet expressive, contributing to the existing building’s character without dominating it. The design proposal explores the traditional garden pergola’s qualities and reinterprets them in a modern architectural language, creating an elegant structure that expresses its function and provides a space for artistic inspiration. The project’s objective is to create an artist’s studio that integrates into the natural surroundings of the garden and the character of the conservation area. The proposal is submitted for design feasibility, aiming to explore the possibilities of creating a discreet extension that contributes to the site’s character. The proposed design is an innovative approach that provides a unique space for artistic creativity while respecting the site’s historical context.

By exploring the traditional garden pergola’s qualities and reinterpreting them in a modern architectural language, the proposed extension creates an elegant and functional space for artistic inspiration. The proposal respects the site’s historical context and aims to be discreet while contributing to the existing building’s character.

18
Nov

A new extension to a house in the Barnsbury Conservation Area.

Refurbishment & ExtensionArchitects for Islington | Barnsbury Conservation Area, North London

forresterarchitects has received planning approval for a refurbishment and extension project in the Barnsbury Conservation Area of Islington. The modern house, which is purpose-built and located within the area, will undergo a modest design proposal to add a rear garden extension and roof dormer. The proposed design will provide a large open plan ground floor and a spacious bedroom on the roof. The extension will be clad in copper, which complements the red brick and tile of the surrounding environment.

The Barnsbury Conservation Area is known for its historic architecture, and purpose-built houses in the area are not often added to. forresterarchitects’ design proposal was carefully crafted to satisfy the planning and building control regulations and respect the neighborhood’s character. The approval of this project highlights forresterarchitects ability to create thoughtful designs that are both functional and visually appealing.

The addition of a large open plan ground floor and spacious bedroom on the roof will provide the homeowner with more living space while still respecting the area’s regulations. The use of copper as the extension’s cladding adds a modern twist to the historic environment. forresterarchitects’ attention to detail and understanding of the local area’s regulations are key factors in this successful planning application.

21
Oct

Stay tidy. A bachelor pad with extensive bespoke joinery solutions.

Bespoke Joinery Refurbishment | Architects for Camden | Primrose Hill, North West London

forresterarchitects recently conducted a design feasibility study for the refurbishment of a duplex apartment in Primrose Hill, North West London. The apartment is situated within a modern purpose-built development, located in a fashionable area of North London. In order to create more space, the design incorporates clever storage interventions to the lack of space within the apartment.

The client, a bachelor, had specific requirements for the refurbishment project, including the need to keep the apartment tidy. To achieve this, forresterarchitects employed bespoke storage solutions throughout the design, creating living wall solutions to maximize the use of space. The apartment’s layout was kept simple, and sliding doors were installed to avoid taking up valuable space while also providing an open plan feel when left open. By working closely with the client and considering their specific needs, forresterarchitects were able to provide a design that met their requirements and maximized the available space. The use of bespoke storage solutions throughout the apartment allows for efficient use of space, while the sliding doors provide a flexible living area that can be adapted to suit the client’s needs. This refurbishment not only provides additional living space but also adds a contemporary touch to the design, bringing the apartment up to date and making it more appealing to potential buyers or renters.

By employing bespoke storage solutions and incorporating a dynamic rear extension, forresterarchitects have maximised the available space and provided a modern and flexible living area that meets the client’s specific requirements.

01
Sep

A design feasibility study for a twin townhouse in the Bloomsbury Conservation Area.

Twin Townhouse Refurbishment | Architects for Camden | Bloomsbury, West Central London

forresterarchitects have submitted a design feasibility proposal for the refurbishment of twin townhouses located off Oxford Street in Bloomsbury, West Central London. The proposed works aim to re-establish the internal hierarchy of a late Victorian house, which is not realizing its full potential in the modern family lifestyle. The design approach aims to retain the formal reception rooms on the ground and first floors while the bedrooms will be located on the upper floors. The kitchen and dining rooms will be retained on the lower ground floor, and both properties will be rewired with new plumbing throughout.

The proposed refurbishment aims to bring new life to the twin townhouses, creating a layout that is better suited to the way modern families live. The retained formal reception rooms on the ground and first floors will provide a perfect space for family activities and entertaining guests, while the upper floors will offer private spaces for rest and relaxation. The lower ground floor will house the kitchen and dining area, providing a perfect space for family gatherings and meals. The design proposal will require the installation of new plumbing and rewiring of both properties. These upgrades will ensure that the modern family has access to all the amenities they need. The proposal also aims to respect the historic character of the properties while providing a modern layout.

Overall, the design feasibility proposal for the twin townhouse refurbishments off Oxford Street in Bloomsbury, West Central London, is an innovative approach that aims to bring new life to a traditional layout.

 

17
Aug

A house refurbishment with new basement floor in Stoke Newington.

House Refurbishment with Basement | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

A large Victorian house refurbishment and basement extension in Stoke Newington, North London is substantial house refurbishment. The house has not been refurbished since its purchase by the clients, ten years previous.  During this period the house suffered from student occupation and was tired. Not far from our other local new-build project in Stoke Newington

The upper floors were bowed and only one bathroom served a four bedroom house. A full house refurbishment was proposed with the requirement of a full-width rear extension. A low engineered basement solution was added as a cost effective solution basement extension to avoid underpinning. The new basement space provides a viable solution to the client’s storage and utility requirements. A projecting window seat was a key feature to the rear extension design proposal. A fully glazed roof-light provided a bright modern kitchen overlooking a modest garden. A large garden pond provides a new focal point to the garden. 

To the upper floor the large bedroom proportions are retained intact. A guest shower-room to the top floor landing provided a simple design solution without compromising the top bedroomsA muted palette provided the most suitable background for the client’s extensive art collection.