Category: Listed Buildings & Conservation

29
Apr

A simpler solution for a rear extension on Ladbroke Grove in the Oxford Conservation Area.

Rear Extension | Architects for Kensington & Chelsea | Oxford Conservation Area, West London

forresterarchitects has recently completed a design feasibility study for a property in Ladbroke Grove, West London. The client, who is a close neighbour to one forresterarchitects previous projects, Barlby, is seeking a rear extension for their property. The client’s father, who is a retired architect, had a clear vision for the project.

The proposed rear extension is a sleek and simple design, providing an alternative solution to the typical rear garden extension. The design is subtle and considered, blending seamlessly with the existing architecture of the property. Despite the proposal potential considered under Permitted Development Rights, planning permission is required due to the property’s location within the Oxford Conservation Area. The rear extension will feature a large open plan kitchen with full-width sliding doors, offering plenty of natural light and providing a seamless connection to the garden. The design also includes a dedicated silversmiths studio for the client, who works from home. A glazed roof-light runs the entire length of the side infill extension, allowing natural daylight to penetrate deep into the main body of the house. forresterarchitects expertise in working within conservation areas ensures that the proposed design meets all the necessary planning regulations while still providing a contemporary and functional living space for the client. forresterarchitects attention to detail and commitment to quality design is evident in every aspect of the proposed rear extension.

Overall, the proposed rear extension in Ladbroke Grove is an excellent example of forresterarchitects ability to blend contemporary design with traditional architecture, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. forresterarchitects attention to detail and expertise in working within conservation areas ensures that the proposed design meets all the necessary planning constraints while still providing a contemporary and functional living space for the client.

01
Dec

A new artist studio in the Belsize Park Conservation Area.

Artist Studio Extension | 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 & Extension | Architects 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.

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.

 

01
May

A design feasibility for a new-build Passive House (Passivhaus) in the Norfolk Broads.

New-Build Passive House (Passivhaus)| Architect for Norfolk Broads | Stalham, Norfolk

forresterarchitects have secured full planning approval for a new build house on the Norfolk Broads. The house will be designed to Passive House (Passivhaus) standards.

The Passive House (Passivhaus) concept aims to dramatically reduce the requirements for space heating and cooling whilst also creating excellent indoor comfort levels. The focus of the Passive House (Passivhaus) is to dramatically reduce the requirement for space heating and cooling, whilst also creating excellent indoor comfort levels.

This is primarily achieved by adopting a fabric first approach to the design, specifying high levels of insulation to the thermal envelope with exceptional levels of air tightness and the use of whole house mechanical ventilation. The heating requirement in a Passive House (Passivhaus) building is reduced to the point where a traditional heating system is no longer considered essential. Cooling is also minimised by the same principles and through the use of shading. Night purging and the use of natural cross-ventilation through open windows is encouraged during the summer months

The new house will be inspired by the light industrial forms which predominate the local surrounding area. The roof forms explored and developed further to provide a modern architectural solution which draws references from these vernacular forms and materials and how they are positioned in the landscape. The accommodation brief is expressed in an informal arrangement of ‘sheds’. The ‘sheds’ in their juxtaposition aim to contribute positively to the local character of the area and the wider environment.

The new build house is almost perfectly orientated benefiting from a South facing facade. To maximise further from the early morning sunshine the house will be orientated a further 10 degrees to the East.

10
Apr

A new London roof to a house refurbishment in the Brackenbury Village.

House Refurbishment and Rear Extension | Architects for Hammersmith & Fulham | Brackenbury Village, West London

forresterarchitects have provided a full architectural service for a house refurbishment in the Bradmore Conservation Area in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham. A fine Victorian terraced house in the Brackenbury Village. It has been reconfigured to provide four bedrooms. A key design feature of the house is a large principle bedroom with open plan access to a private bathroom. The other bedrooms have been enhanced with fine bespoke joinery. A dynamic rear extension introduces the London roof to provide a modern kitchen and dining room.

01
Jan

A Gambrel and Peg roof is the key feature to a Grade II cottage refurbishment in West Mersea.

Grade II Listed Cottage & Conservation Refurbishment with New-Build Extension | Architects for Colchester | West Mersea

forresterarchitects have presented a design feasibility plan for a Grade II listed cottage refurbishment in West Mersea, Colchester. The Gambrel and Peg tile roof with v-section wooden eaves trough on wooden brackets are listed as key features, and the cottage is to be restored to its original condition. The design brief also includes adding a new-build extension that takes inspiration from the simple forms and materials of local boat sheds, while respecting the surrounding environment. The proposed design features a new dining area and kitchen that doubles as extra bedroom accommodation when the clients have guests. The north/south orientation of the new additions enhances the visual dialogue between the defined garden spaces.

The aim of the project is to preserve the cottage’s historical features while incorporating modern architectural elements that respect its surroundings. The new-build extension will be carefully integrated with the existing structure to create a harmonious and seamless flow. The proposed north/south orientation will improve the natural lighting of the space, highlighting the garden spaces and creating a more pleasant environment. The design solution draws inspiration from the vernacular, incorporating simple forms and materials that complement the surrounding landscape. The dining area and kitchen have been designed to be a focal point of the cottage, providing ample space for family gatherings and entertaining guests. The new bedroom accommodation will be an asset to the property, offering flexibility and convenience to the clients.

The proposed refurbishment of the Grade II listed cottage and new-build extension demonstrates forresterarchitects commitment to creating designs that integrate seamlessly with their surroundings while respecting the historical and cultural significance of the existing structure. The project is a testament to their expertise in conservation and renovation, and their ability to create innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients.

16
Aug

A Grade 2 property isn’t untouchable. Add a glass box in the Jeffrey’s Street Conservation Area.

Grade 2 Remodelling | Architects for Camden | Jeffrey’s Street Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects has been tasked with a Grade II remodelling project in Jeffrey’s Street Conservation Area, North West London. The project involves an end of terrace Edwardian house in Camden Town with a stucco facade featuring vertical sliding shutters concealed within the window cills, a key listed feature. The client desires an expansion of the accommodation, which is currently modest.

To meet the client’s needs, forresterarchitects proposes a modern glass rear extension that engages with the garden while remaining concealed behind the perimeter garden wall. The design’s aim is to keep the original features of the building intact, with the only sign of intervention being the profiled edge of the horizontal roof beyond. The glass extension offers a modern approach to expand the accommodation while keeping the building’s character and charm. The proposed design offers a balance between old and new, with the glass extension providing a modern addition while retaining the building’s original Edwardian architecture. The design offers a contemporary space for modern living and entertainment while retaining the original character of the building.

forresterarchitects approach to the project is a careful balance between retaining the original features of the building while accommodating the client’s needs for expansion. The proposed glass extension offers a seamless transition between the original building and the modern addition, providing a beautiful and functional living space.

01
Oct

Art decoration in Queens Park.

Galley Kitchen Refurbishment and Extension | Architects for Brent | Queens Park, North West London

forresterarchitects recently completed a full house refurbishment project in the Queens Park neighborhood of North West London. The project involved significant remodeling of the rear of the house to create a reconfigured galley kitchen and dining area. forresterarchitects utilised a series of folding-sliding doors to create a central courtyard that connects the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for easy access to the landscaped garden beyond.

The project also included the creation of a new garden at the front of the house and the rendering of the facade, providing a fresh and modern look to the street-facing exterior. forresterarchitects attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in the striking art-deco design of the house, which has been updated with modern amenities and features while still maintaining its original character. The galley kitchen refurbishment and extension project is a perfect example of forresterarchitects’ approach to residential design, which focuses on creating functional and comfortable living spaces that are tailored to the needs of their clients. By combining modern design elements with traditional features, forresterarchitects is able to create unique and timeless spaces that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

The Queens Park location of the project is also noteworthy, as the neighborhood is known for its charming Victorian and Edwardian houses, which have been popular with young professionals and families alike. The area has a vibrant and diverse community, with a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as easy access to public transportation, making it an attractive location for those looking to live in a bustling and dynamic part of London.

14
Sep

Three floor penthouse development in the Lexham Conservation Area.

Three Floor Penthouse Development | Architects for Kensington & Chelsea | Lexham Conservation Area, West London

forresterarchitects have submitted a planning application for a new penthouse floor to a flat in the Lexham Conservation Area, London Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.  Currently configured as a two bedroom the design proposal provides an additional floor. Our penthouse refurbishment in St. John’s Wood is simply configured over one floor with access to balcony terraces. A desirable open plan lounge and dining area for entertaining are added to the top. The lower floors are reconfigured to offer two bedrooms with en suite facilities. A feature stair connecting all floors provides access to a large oval roof-light to the roof.