Category: New Build

18
Oct

A Green Oak garage with rear garden extension in Tonbridge

Green Oak Double Garage and Rear Garden Extension | Architects for Tonbridge 

A distinctive and spacious “forever” home sits on a quiet country lane in Tonbridge. While nearly perfect, it needs a thoughtful update. Upstairs, new flooring and reconfigured partitions improve bedroom sizes, and each bathroom will be refitted. The large kitchen will remain on the ground floor, but a new rear extension will replace the inferior conservatory. A Green Oak garage with a first-floor office/study will be built in the mature side garden. The extension and garage will blend modern and traditional elements, complementing the house’s white-painted brick, red concrete tiles, and blackened timber cladding.
29
Jan

A dedicated voice over studio for home working.

Garden Studio | Architects for Finchley | forrester architects

In the realm of voice-over work, a significant change has taken place, as the essential studio has now shifted from a dedicated space to a cozy bedroom in a spacious semi-detached house in North London. However, a former client, now with more time to dedicate to their craft, seeks an inspiring atmosphere for the creation of their audio masterpieces, prompting the quest for a perfect studio within the garden. To seamlessly blend with the beautifully landscaped surroundings, an architectural solution that harmonizes with the overall aesthetic is desired. The envisioned garden studio, with its sleek and unassuming design, remains discreetly tucked away behind the garden fence. Its exposed timber cladding not only complements the existing garden vernacular but also ensures visual continuity with the surrounding environment.

10
Jan

A new house forms a new book-end development to a Clapton terrace.

Book-end House | Architects for Hackney | Clapton, Hackney

forresterarchitects has been working on an exciting project in Clapton, Hackney, for a one-bedroom house with limited potential for development. The rear outrigger extension was sold as a one-bedroom house, but it has limited scope for development unless an additional floor is added. However, the house is a book-end property, and forresterarchitects see this as an opportunity to realise the full potential of the freehold plot.

The existing roof space volume will provide the additional floor space required to achieve a new two/three bedroom house, which will significantly increase the property’s value. forresterarchitects have carefully considered the design of the extension to ensure that it complements the existing property’s style and character. The project presents an exciting opportunity for forresterarchitects to create a beautiful, functional, and modern living space that maximises the available floor area. The new two/three bedroom house will provide ample space for a growing family and add value to the property. forresterarchitects have taken into account various design considerations, such as the layout, materials, and lighting, to ensure that the extension is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and functional. The new extension will provide plenty of natural light and offer beautiful views of the surrounding area.

The project presents a unique opportunity to realise the full potential of the freehold plot and create a beautiful, functional, and modern living space. forresterarchitects have carefully considered various design considerations to ensure that the extension complements the existing property’s style and character while providing ample space for a growing family.

14
May

A stepped extension and garden studio to the rear of a townhouse in Hackney.

Extension Garden Studio | Architects for Hackney | forrester architects.

forresterarchitects have been commissioned by a repeat client to work on a full maisonette refurbishment in Hackney, North London. The maisonette will undergo significant remodelling, including a new lower ground extension that will provide two separate dwellings. A new garden studio to the rear of the property will offer ancillary accommodation with direct access to the garden. Meanwhile, a new loft studio will be added to the top floor and the existing garage space will be reconfigured to provide a discreet side entrance.

The proposed lower ground extension will be a significant addition to the property, providing additional living space and allowing for two separate dwellings. The new garden studio to the rear of the property is designed to complement the existing building while also offering ancillary accommodation with direct access to the garden. forresterarchitects have paid particular attention to the new loft studio, which will be an important part of the redesign. The new loft space will provide additional living space and will be designed to maximise the use of natural light. The existing garage will be reconfigured to provide a discreet side entrance, allowing for easy access to the property without disrupting the existing layout. The proposed design is an excellent example of how an intelligent redesign can add value to a property while also enhancing its functionality. The proposed lower ground extension and garden studio will provide additional living space, while the new loft studio will add an extra dimension to the property. The use of natural light and attention to detail in the design will create a space that is both beautiful and functional.

Overall, the proposed maisonette refurbishment in Hackney, North London, by forresterarchitects is an excellent example of how an intelligent redesign can add value and functionality to a property. The proposed design is carefully considered, with attention to detail evident in every aspect of the project. The result will be a beautiful and functional space that meets the client’s needs while also adding value to the property.

 

08
Oct

A new-build house near Hampstead Village.

New Build House | Architects for North West London | Forrester Architects

We’re looking into a new build house solution for a current client. There is already a house on the plot but it is considered by Camden Planning of no architectural merit. It will be demolished. In its place a new open plan house of approximately 3000sq/ft. Near to Hampstead Village, the house will be set within the local conservation area. Our client is keen to avoid over developing the site and the house will not be overbearing scale and massing. The street facade will present a masonry frontage to complement the traditional context. To the rear, the garden is South facing and a sustainable energy strategy will be adopted to make the most of its perfect aspect.

09
Sep

Ground source heat from an English country garden.

English Country House | Architects for South Bucks | Forrester Architects

forresterarchitects is currently working on an exciting English Country House in South Buckinghamshire. The project involves the design and construction of a seven-bedroom English country house for a young family. The client has placed a strong emphasis on adopting a renewable energy strategy for the house, swimming pool, and car garage.

forresterarchitects have incorporated various innovative features into the design to ensure the energy efficiency of the house. To the rear of the house, ground source heating, solar PV, and solar thermal provision have been integrated into the garden and house design. This renewable energy strategy will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the house and help to create a more sustainable future. Despite the emphasis on modern technology and sustainability, the house’s design is traditional in every detail. forresterarchitects have taken inspiration from the classic English country house style and incorporated various features into the design, such as sash windows, a pitched roof, and a grand entrance. These traditional features provide the house with a timeless elegance and sense of heritage. However, forresterarchitects have also ensured that the house is modern in outlook, incorporating contemporary design elements into the project. The interior of the house is designed to provide a bright, open, and spacious living environment that is perfect for modern family living.

The project incorporates innovative technology and sustainable features to reduce the carbon footprint of the house. The design is traditional in every detail but modern in outlook, creating a timeless and elegant living environment that is perfect for a modern family.

04
Dec

Early sketches for interlocking houses on a Brownfield site in North London.

New-Build Houses| Architects for HackneyStoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects has designed four new-build houses in Stoke Newington, North London, on a previously unused brownfield site. The project was developed using simple brick constructions with oversized windows that give each of the new-build homes a bright, spacious feel. Each of the four houses is interlocking and features double-height living rooms with framed views of the surrounding area. The upper floors are light-filled and spacious, with plenty of natural light, while the open-plan kitchens offer direct access to private external terraces located between each house.

forresterarchitects have paid close attention to the layout and design of each property, ensuring that they maximise the available space and provide plenty of natural light. The new-build homes are designed with energy efficiency in mind and incorporate sustainable technologies where possible. The use of oversized windows helps to provide passive solar heating and cooling, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation systems. In addition, the terraces between each house provide a buffer zone, helping to reduce noise and provide a private outdoor space for residents to enjoy.

forresterarchitects worked closely with the local council to ensure that the new-build homes fit seamlessly into the surrounding environment. The new-build homes are designed to blend in with the existing street scene and are sympathetic to the local context. The project provides much-needed new-build homes for the area, while also demonstrating how brownfield sites can be developed sustainably to create high-quality, energy-efficient housing.

12
Jun

A new plot for three new-build houses.

Three New-Build Houses | Architects for London | North West London

forresterarchitects are currently working on a feasibility study for three new-build houses on a brownfield site in North West London. The land is located to the rear gardens of the suburban terraced houses, with access provided by a single access road circulating the local garden green.

The brief is to create three innovative house designs that will make the project viable for the property developer. The challenge is to balance the desire for contemporary, stylish design with the need to create practical and functional living spaces that will appeal to potential buyers. The proposed houses will be designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, incorporating features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and efficient heating and ventilation systems. The use of high-quality materials will ensure that the houses are built to last and require minimal maintenance over time. The focus on innovative design will be reflected in the layout and features of the houses. Each house will be unique, with its own character and style, yet all will share a common thread of contemporary design and functionality. The design will prioritise natural light and space, creating a sense of openness and tranquility that will be appealing to potential buyers.

The focus on innovative design, sustainability, and energy efficiency will ensure that the houses are not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible. The final design will be unique, reflecting the needs and desires of the property developer, while also meeting the demands of modern living.

10
Dec

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

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 landscapeThe 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.
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.

18
Mar

A garden pavilion has been approved to a detached house in Highgate, North London.

Garden Pavilion | Architects for Camden | Highgate Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects has received planning approval for a garden pavilion in Highgate, North London. The pavilion is located in the rear garden of a detached house and is designed to solve the problem of accommodating visiting family members. The house is shared by two professionals who needed additional space for guests.

The garden pavilion is a sleek and modern structure that provides two double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. The design allows for direct access to the garden and the house, providing flexibility and privacy to the occupants. The pavilion is designed to blend seamlessly with the existing house and the surrounding landscape. The project is located in the Highgate Conservation Area, which is known for its historic architecture and strict planning regulations. forresterarchitects worked closely with the local planning authorities to ensure that the design of the garden pavilion met the requirements of the Conservation Area. The garden pavilion provides a self-contained living space that is perfect for guests or family members who require additional privacy. The design of the pavilion ensures that it is not intrusive to the existing house or the surrounding landscape.

forresterarchitects is known for its innovative and sustainable designs, and the garden pavilion in Highgate is no exception. The pavilion is designed to be energy-efficient and sustainable, with features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Overall, the garden pavilion in Highgate is a testament to forresterarchitects’ commitment to innovative and sustainable design. The project provides a practical solution to the problem of accommodating visiting family members while also enhancing the beauty and functionality of the existing house and the surrounding landscape.

01
Mar

Four new build houses realise the full potential of an inner city brownfield site.

New Build Houses | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects have completed four new build houses in Stoke Newington, North London. Four innovative interlocking townhouses form the perimeter boundary to a centralised courtyard development. The site is a tight urban brown field site. Traditional construction techniques are used to compliment the modern materials to achieve highly insulated construction values.
 
The site was tight and the context varied dramatically to each side of the site. The new-build development offers a unique and positive contribution to the urban environment. Each house type offers an unconventional layout due to the site constraints.  The exterior of the four interlocking house are simple brick constructions. The upper floors are spacious double-height living rooms with plenty of daylight and framed views of the local environment. Each of the open plan kitchens has direct access to a private external terrace, which is located between each house. Bespoke Italian kitchens provide a focus for open plan living. A spiral staircase leads to a mezzanine gallery level, which overlooks the main living space. All bedroom accommodation is located on the ground floor. Each bedroom is provided with modest courtyards, which provide each room with their own outside space. Each bedroom has a full tiled private bathroom or shower-room complete with sleek, modern fittings.
 
The courtyard provides car parking for each resident and is expressed as a simple white band of render to each block.
18
Feb

A glass Penthouse is added to a land-locked house in Bethnal Green.

Glass Penthouse | Architects for Hackney | Bethnal Green, East London

forresterarchitects has recently conducted a feasibility study for a landlocked house located in Tower Hamlets, surrounded by neighboring properties on all sides. As there is no scope for expansion on the ground level, the only possible solution is to go up. A glass penthouse structure is proposed, which will provide space for a new master bedroom and en suite bathroom. The design aims to maintain the privacy of the occupants by incorporating sliding translucent panels.

The proposed design aims to create an extension that not only provides additional space but also enhances the overall look of the property. The use of a glass structure will provide a modern touch and allow natural light to penetrate into the property. As the penthouse will be visible from neighbouring properties, a translucent panel system will be used to maintain the privacy of the occupants while still allowing natural light to pass through. The new master bedroom and en suite bathroom will be enclosed in the glass structure and will be accessed via a new staircase leading up from the existing floor. The use of glass will not only provide a sleek and modern aesthetic but also offer stunning views of the surrounding area. As this is a feasibility study, the proposed design may be subject to change based on various factors such as building regulations, client preferences, and budget. The design will need to be approved by the relevant authorities before construction can begin.

The glass penthouse project is an excellent example of how forresterarchitects can create innovative solutions to overcome the challenge of landlocked properties. The use of a glass structure to create additional space not only enhances the property but also provides an opportunity to bring in natural light and stunning views.

16
Jan

A new-build infill development in Clapham.

Infill Development | Architects for Lambeth | Clapham, South West London

forresterarchitects have recently submitted a planning application for a new-build infill house in Clapham, South London. The project involves the development of an unremarkable bookend property, which presents an opportunity to construct a new two-storey infill development. In response to the high demand for housing in London, developers are increasingly seeking out obscure plots of land with the potential to be developed, and this infill development is no exception.

The proposed infill house is designed with living accommodation on the upper floors, while the bedrooms are located on the ground floor, creating an unconventional layout. The upper floor features a double height lounge with a south-facing aspect, providing a bright and airy room with ample natural light. The ground floor houses two double bedrooms and a ground floor accessible WC. In accordance with current planning policies, the development includes a terraced garden space, which is accessed from the lounge area at the rear of the property.

The provision of garden space is a strict requirement for new house developments, and this infill development is no exception. Infill developments such as this provide an opportunity for clients to take advantage of residual or inefficient land use, which would otherwise go unused. By creating a two-storey infill development on an unremarkable bookend property, forresterarchitects have maximized the potential of the plot and provided their client with a modern and unconventional living space, complete with a terraced garden.

01
Jul

A modern new build house in the Hampstead Conservation Area.

New Build Development | Architects for Hampstead | Hampstead Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects, in collaboration with another architect, have been granted planning permission for a new build house in Hampstead, North West London. The new development will replace an existing 1930’s chauffeur’s house with a modern, open-plan design. The ground floor will provide a large, open space that looks out onto a landscaped garden, and the double-height lounge will feature a 6m high library. The design includes an art gallery as part of the main circulation route, allowing visitors to view artwork as they walk through the house. The bedrooms are located on either the front or rear of the house, with primary views overlooking the garden. Sustainable features such as solar thermal panels, air-borne heat recovery, and rainwater harvesting will be incorporated into the design. The new build house has a contemporary aesthetic that stands in contrast to the more traditional architecture found in the Hampstead Conservation Area.

The development process involved the demolition of the existing house, with the new house built in its place. The open-plan design allows for an efficient use of space, providing a sense of connection between the interior and exterior. The design prioritizes natural light and creates a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The art gallery is a unique feature of the design, adding an element of cultural significance to the house. The gallery is situated in the main circulation route, allowing visitors to appreciate the artwork as they move through the space. Sustainability is a key element of the design, with the use of solar thermal panels and air-borne heat recovery reducing the carbon footprint of the house. The design also incorporates rainwater harvesting, which collects and reuses rainwater for non-potable uses such as watering plants and flushing toilets. The inclusion of sustainable features not only reduces the environmental impact of the house but also provides cost savings for the homeowner.

The new build house in Hampstead represents a departure from traditional architecture found in the area, with a contemporary design that prioritizes sustainability and an efficient use of space. The house incorporates unique features such as the art gallery and the 6m high library, adding an element of cultural and artistic significance to the property. The design is an example of how modern architecture can coexist alongside more traditional buildings, providing a new interpretation of the Hampstead Conservation Area.