Category: Extensions & Conversions

30
Sep

An open fire box provides a new hearth to a Southwark townhouse

Grade II Refurbishment | Architects for Southwark | forrester architects

forresterarchitects recently completed a full refurbishment of a Grade II listed townhouse located in the West Square Conservation Area in South East London. The project included an interesting addition to the dining room, where the traditional fire and hearth were replaced with an open flame rotisserie.

The refurbishment aimed to retain the original charm and character of the townhouse, while enhancing the kitchen and dining space located on the lower ground floor. This area was limited in natural daylight, so forresterarchitects had to carefully consider the materials used and the placement of features to make the most of reflected light. The addition of the open flame rotisserie to the dining room created an informal and entertaining heart of the house. The new kitchen and dining space were designed to be more appropriate for modern living, as many townhouse kitchens are too small or poorly configured. forresterarchitects took a considered approach to material choice, selecting materials that would complement the existing features of the townhouse while contributing to the desired atmosphere of the space. The result is a tasteful and practical design that maintains the townhouse’s original character while improving its functionality.

The project retains the original charm and character of the property, while enhancing the kitchen and dining space to create an inviting and functional heart of the house. Thoughtful material selection and attention to detail has resulted in a practical and beautiful space that will be enjoyed for years to come.

20
Mar

A Surrey cottage is a perfect home from home

Period Cottage Refurbishment | Architect for Surrey | forrester architects

forresterarchitects have recently completed an extensive refurbishment project for a period cottage in Surrey, which was previously divided into two. The client’s brief was to retain the traditional features of the property while upgrading the five bedrooms with new bathrooms. forresterarchitects created a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the main reception room with two back-to-back open fireplaces and a new antique parquet floor. The family rooms were also connected through this floor, providing a seamless transition between spaces.

In the rear section of the property, an open-plan layout was introduced, connecting the family and garden rooms to the large island kitchen. This has provided a comfortable and spacious area for the family to gather, relax and entertain guests. The kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances and a large island counter, making it a functional and practical space for everyday use. forresterarchitects also added a dormer conversion to the roof, creating a new master bedroom and ensuite that overlooks a large landscaped garden. This new addition has provided a private retreat for the homeowners to relax and unwind in the comfort of their own home. Throughout the refurbishment process, forresterarchitects were careful to preserve the period features of the cottage, including the exposed beams and traditional brickwork. forresterarchitects worked closely with the client to ensure that every aspect of the renovation was carried out with precision and care, resulting in a beautiful and functional space that has been restored to its former glory.

The cottage refurbishment is a perfect example of how traditional features can be preserved while still creating a modern and comfortable living space. The project has breathed new life into the property, transforming it into a functional and stylish home that meets the needs of the modern family.

20
Feb

Large format hand made clay tile proposed for a North London rear extension.

Danish clay tile extension | Architects for Hackney | forrester architects

A rear extension to North London has been designed to respond directly to its immediate context. The full house refurbishment and rear extension has been configured as one distinct volume and is expressed in a clay-tile cladding. The large format Danish clay tile, as a traditional hand made material, is contextually sympathetic to the palette of the materials to adjacent townhouse rear garden. The roof form is configured to take advantage of the unrestricted southwest facing aspect. Under the roof, a double height volume allows the warm air to rise naturally to the highest point of the roof space and then circulate to maintain a consistent room temperature. To the rear the kitchen is the main focal point to the house, the garden and a modest garden studio provided as a home working space.

20
Jan

Green Oak barn extension added to a traditional Cotswolds cottage

Green Oak Barn Extension | Architects for the Cotswolds | forrester architects

A green oak barn extension has been added as part of the refurbishment of the Coach House, a detached stone house located within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The property boasts several charming features, including stone fireplaces, exposed stone walls, timber beams, and stone window seats. However, a full interior refurbishment is required, and a Green Oak extension will be added to the rear of the Coach House.

forresterarchitects drew inspiration from the surrounding area’s light industrial and agricultural forms to create a simple, sustainable extension that complements the existing structure. The new addition will feature a sustainable drainage solution for surface water, which will utilise natural drainage techniques to collect, treat, store, and slowly release stormwater into the environment. The Green Oak barn extension will be designed with the key principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility in mind. The extension will be in harmony with the surrounding area, featuring a timber clad roof and utilising local materials such as Cotswold stone. The project will provide a well-proportioned building that seamlessly blends the old with the new.

In summary, forresterarchitects will undertake a full refurbishment of the Coach House while adding a Green Oak extension that is designed to be sustainable and environmentally responsible. The extension will provide a simple architectural response that is in harmony with the surrounding area and showcases the beauty of the Cotswolds AONB.

06
May

A garden pergola provides inspiration for a new East London extension

Garden Pergola Extension | Architects for Newham | East Ham, East London

forresterarchitects has designed a new rear garden pergola extension that takes full advantage of the orientation of the property located in East Ham, East London, in the borough of Newham. The extension has been carefully planned to allow the garden to receive sunlight throughout the day, from early morning to late evening, as the sun moves across the sky to the west. The extension has been designed to improve the visual connection between the house, the garden, and the sky beyond.

The pergola extension is characterized by a series of layers that frame views and create a strong sense of connection between the interior and the garden. The design takes into consideration the orientation of the property and the movement of the sun throughout the day. An exposed roof structure extends into the garden to form a garden pergola that provides a passive solar shading device to the interior. The pergola will protect the interior from direct sunlight while allowing for natural light to enter the space. The design will also help to regulate the temperature of the interior space, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.

The garden pergola extension will provide a beautiful and functional addition to the property. The pergola will create a shaded outdoor space that can be used for dining, relaxation, and entertaining. The extension will also enhance the visual appeal of the property, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the garden. The design will provide a contemporary and stylish solution that is sympathetic to the existing property while providing a new and exciting space for the owners to enjoy.

12
Apr

A new one bed flat extension in the garden vernacular

One Bed Flat Extension | Architects for Oxford | Temple Cowley, Oxford

forresterarchitects have developed a unique one bed flat extension for a corner plot in Temple Cowley, Oxford. The project involved creating a one-bedroom flat extension that considered the site constraints imposed by the irregular property demise. The feasibility studies revealed that a conventional rear extension would obstruct access to the rear garden or potentially conflict with the neighboring property.

Instead, forresterarchitects designed a new addition that allows for the reconfiguration of the existing floor plan. The dining and lounge areas are located between the bedroom and extension to provide a bright and airy living environment. Additionally, the new extension provides a second bedroom and a dedicated studio/library for the academics. The design solution is considered and well-executed, providing a considered response to the unique challenges of the site. By creating a one-bedroom flat extension that works with the property’s irregularities, forresterarchitects were able to maximize the space available and provide a comfortable and functional living environment. The addition of a second bedroom and dedicated studio/library adds value to the property and meets the client’s specific needs.

17
May

Two neighbours add a roof top extension to double the area of their maisonette.

Roof Top Extension  | Architects for Camden | Camden Square Conservation Area

The owners of the top floor flats to Cliff Road, together, aim to improve the quality of the existing housing stock. A new roof extension is proposed to the existing flat roof terrace. It provides bright and airy living rooms to the new roof space. Each flat currently provides one bedroom accommodation. Both flats, as part of the planning submission, will carry out a full refurbishment as part of the works as each property requires modernisation. Both flats will be modestly reconfigured to improve the accommodation and sanitary provision.

19
Jan

Convert the undercroft to add a little rental income.

Undercroft Conversion | Architects for Wellington | New Zealand

forresterarchitects is currently working on an undercroft conversion project in Khandallah, a suburb in Wellington, New Zealand. The site is situated on the hills of Khandallah and boasts a lower ground floor undercroft that currently remains under-utilised. forresterarchitects plan to convert this voided space into a one-bedroom studio flat, thus realising its full potential. The studio flat will be accessible via its own front door, providing a simple conversion to the colonial style house.

The converted undercroft will provide rental income to the highly sought-after neighbourhood in Wellington. With a large enough volume, the undercroft is ideal for accommodating the exposed hillside. The conversion will help to unlock the space’s potential and increase the value of the property. Our vision for the undercroft conversion involves creating a spacious and functional living area that blends seamlessly with the existing colonial-style house. The design will be sympathetic to the house’s existing features, while incorporating modern amenities and finishes to ensure maximum comfort for the occupants. We are working closely with the client to ensure that their vision for the undercroft conversion is realised. They will provide expert advice on planning and construction, ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

The undercroft conversion project in Khandallah is an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into an under-utilised space. The converted one-bedroom studio flat will provide a valuable addition to the property, creating a unique living space that is both functional and attractive. 

05
Jun

Picture framed views of Canonbury through a new Orangery.

Townhouse Orangery | Architects for Canonbury | North London

forresterarchitects is currently refurbishing and enlarging a beautiful Islington townhouse in Canonbury, North London. As part of the refurbishment, a new kitchen is being extended on the first floor to create a largely glazed orangery. This will provide unrestricted views to the rear of the property, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the exterior.

To take advantage of the stunning views, there is an opportunity to provide a large picture window arrangement. forresterarchitects are currently working on feasibility studies to determine the best configuration of the glazed panels, which will be arranged to respond to the rich variety of windows on the rear facade. The result will be a beautifully designed space that maximizes the natural light and views, while preserving the original features of the townhouse. The orangery will add an elegant and contemporary touch to the property, providing the clients with a functional and visually appealing space that they can enjoy for years to come.

The new orangery will be a stunning addition to the property, providing a seamless connection between the interior and the exterior and maximizing the natural light and views. forresterarchitects attention to detail and careful consideration of the property’s original features have resulted in a beautifully designed space that is both functional and visually appealing.

03
Nov

An inside-outside garden extension.

Inside-Outside Garden Extension | Architects for Lewisham | Forrester Architects

forresterarchitects have designed an innovative inside-outside garden extension for a client in South London who has a love for their long mature garden. The garden room design proposal aims to bring the garden into the new kitchen and dining room space, which will be a seamless addition to the existing building.

The original London brickwork facade of the garden room will undulate along its length, providing glimpses of the garden in all directions. This unique design concept results in a fine garden room that is both functional and visually striking. The undulating form of the facade is an innovative approach that allows the garden room to seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings. The result is a space that feels connected to the outdoors, while still providing all the comforts of an indoor living space. The garden room is designed to be a versatile space that can be used for a variety of purposes. It will serve as an extension to the existing kitchen and dining room, providing additional space for entertaining or relaxation. The undulating form of the facade also creates interesting shadows and patterns throughout the day, adding to the visual interest of the space.

The unique design concept of the undulating brickwork facade provides glimpses of the garden in all directions, resulting in a fine garden room that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. The garden room is a versatile space that can be used for a variety of purposes, making it a valuable addition to the client’s home.