Category: Extensions & Conversions

01
Jul

A peek over the parapet.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Infill Parapet Extension | Architects for Tufnell Park | Islington

forresterarchitects recently designed an infill parapet extension for a townhouse in Tufnell Park, Islington. The new extension offers a breathtaking view of the setting sun, as it peeks over the parapet wall. The extension was constructed within a lovely mature garden, which adds a touch of natural beauty to the property.

One of the notable features of this new extension is the relocation of the kitchen, which now frames stunning views of the garden. This strategic positioning allows for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The high level skylight on the west side of the extension further enhances the view of the sunset, adding a warm and welcoming ambiance to the space. forresterarchitects’ design approach focused on maximising the use of natural light and enhancing the visual connectivity between the interior and exterior spaces. The result is an extension that not only offers a stunning view of the garden and sunset, but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the townhouse’s overall aesthetic.

This project showcases forresterarchitects’ expertise in designing extensions that complement and enhance the existing context. Our work in Tufnell Park and Islington demonstrates their ability to create modern and functional living spaces while preserving the traditional charm of the area.

13
May

Avoid the conventional and there is no Downside!

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions, House Refurbishment, Interior Design, Listed Buildings & Conservation

House Refurbishment  | Architects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

The fine semi-detached Villa’s of Belsize Park, North West London is in a wonderful setting. Separated by only the small side passages between the houses. Only the neighbouring houses form a boundary to the gardens, which are long, wide and mature in foliage. This is the setting for our latest full house refurbishment. The client wanted the house to feel better connected to the garden. 
 
An accordion arrangement is explored as a concept for the extension. A series of angled facets have been used to establish a notional hierarchy to the kitchen. Expressed as solid and void walls the facets provide a level of transparency and privacy between the house and garden. The staggered configuration of the extension creates framed views of the garden and a unique architectural solution. See four new build houses realised to an inner city brownfield site.
The innovative design avoids the usual full width house extension. The shift in geometry allows the extension to reveal a series of layered materials to reach out and touch the garden. All contained beneath the asymmetrical roof form. The roof is formed in timber and painted with a special Swedish preservative paint treatment. It produces a beautiful matt red finish. The roof projects beyond the building edge to provide a simple solar shading device to south facing aspect of the extension.
07
Apr

Not the only way to do a dormer conversion…

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Dormer Conversion | Architects for Essex | Hornchurch, Romford

forresterarchitects are nearing the end of the complete rebuilding of a semi-detached house in Hornchurch, Essex. An alternative design to a new dormer conversion complete with 6m extension and house refurbishment in the heart of Essex. The house has been planned around a new stairwell which has been repositioned to serve a new floor added to the top of the house. Every room has been reconfigured and the floor plan is now much more efficient. The energy efficiency of the house has been improved with new double glazed units replacing all single glazed windows.  At 6m deep, a larger than normal extension has also been granted planning permission to the rear and provides an open plan arrangement. A full architectural service was provided from inception through to contract administration and completion. 

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.
02
Feb

No kitchen extension is just an island.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Kitchen Extension | Architects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

For a kitchen extension in Belsize Park, North West London, forresterarchitects have taken a unique approach to create a new form that respects its garden setting. Instead of a typical full-width extension, a series of angled facets have been explored to define the new kitchen space. The facets not only create an original form but also provide a subdivision of the kitchen into preparation, washing, and breakfast areas.

The aim of the design is to respond to and respect the sensitive garden setting in terms of material, language, form, and construction. The inclined form rises towards the garden to provide a natural shading device from the sun, while dropping to the rear against the adjacent extension. The new outrigger extension replaces the original kitchen extension and provides a fresh new look. The design explores a unique form that avoids the typical flat or full-width extension, which can sometimes appear uninspired. Instead, the facets create a sense of dynamism and visual interest. They also define the various functions of the kitchen, making it a highly functional space that responds to the needs of the occupants. forresterarchitects have carefully considered the materials and construction of the extension to ensure it is in keeping with the existing property and its garden setting. The design will respect and respond to the garden, creating a harmonious connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Overall, forresterarchitects have taken a thoughtful and creative approach to this kitchen extension in Belsize Park. By exploring a unique form, subdividing the kitchen, and carefully considering the materials and construction, they have created a space that is highly functional, visually interesting, and respectful of its setting.

08
Nov

A non-conformist London roof returns to Stoke Newington.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions, House Refurbishment

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.

04
Jul

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

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Maisonette Reconfigured | Architects for Camden | North West London

forresterarchitects has submitted a design feasibility report for the 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.

18
Jun

An open plan ground floor to a house in Palmers Green.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Open Plan Ground Floor | Architects for Parsons Green

forresterarchitects have put forward a proposal for a planning application to build a new open plan extension at the back of a detached house in Palmers Green, North London. The new extension would create a big open plan space on the ground floor, perfect for a family room. To achieve this, they plan to remove some of the internal walls and reconfigure the entire ground floor.

The idea behind the project is to create a seamless flow between the different spaces on the ground floor, making it easier for the family to move around and interact with each other. By removing some of the internal walls, they can create a bigger and brighter space that feels more welcoming and spacious. This type of open plan ground floor layout is becoming increasingly popular in modern homes, as it allows families to spend more time together and makes entertaining guests easier. It’s a great way to create a more relaxed and informal atmosphere, as well as making the most of the available space.

forresterarchitects have experience in designing open plan spaces that are both functional and stylish. They understand how important it is to get the layout right and to ensure that the space is well-lit and comfortable to spend time in.

01
Dec

Do you own land in a difficult location? It doesn’t mean you can’t get planning permission for the house of your dreams.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Planning Appeal | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects recently succeeded in overturning a decision by the local planning department to refuse a rear extension development in North London. The development was proposed for a unique warehouse conversion that required additional space to reach its full potential. The design proposed a modest extension that blended seamlessly with the existing Victorian warehouse property. However, the planning submission was deemed overbearing and inappropriate in its local context, resulting in the planning department’s refusal.

To proceed with the development, a planning appeal was lodged by forresterarchitects, which demonstrated how the development was in full compliance with current planning policy. Following an inspection by the Planning Inspectorate, the appeal was successful, and full planning permission was subsequently granted, much to the client’s delight. forresterarchitects have extensive experience with planning appeals, and their successful track record demonstrates their ability to navigate the often complex and challenging planning process. forresterarchitects worked closely with clients to ensure that their vision is realised while meeting planning requirements and regulations. This particular project showcases forresterarchitects ability to design extensions that blend seamlessly with existing properties while meeting planning requirements. By proposing a modest extension that harmoniously complemented the warehouse conversion’s character, the team demonstrated their commitment to preserving and enhancing the local built environment.

In summary, forresterarchitects success in this planning appeal highlights their expertise in navigating the planning process and their commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions that meet both client and regulatory requirements.

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Project Type:

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