Category: Conservation & Listed Buildings

24
Apr

A layered extension opens into the garden in the Parkhill & Upper Park Conservation Area.

Rear Extension | Architects for Belsize Park | Parkhill Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects have recently completed the contract documentation for a rear extension and full house refurbishment project located in the Parkhill Conservation Area of Belsize Park, North West London. The new extension was designed to replace the original kitchen extension which was deemed inadequate for a semi-detached six-bedroom house. A unique and innovative approach was taken to provide a striking addition to the mature gardens of the area.

The new extension features a series of angled facets that provide a notional subdivision of the kitchen. These facets are explored and developed further to define the overall form of the extension, which rises towards the garden to provide a natural shading device. The preparation, washing, and breakfast areas are strategically placed to respond to the garden’s sensitive setting, creating a pleasant environment for the occupants. forresterarchitects provided a full architectural service from the project’s inception through to its completion, which included the remodelling of the master bedroom and bathroom, as well as refurbishing the other bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom. Natural materials were used throughout the refurbishment to create a simple and elegant design that blends in well with the property’s original features. The new extension was designed to avoid the conventional and offer an alternative design solution to the rear garden extension, making it stand out from the surrounding properties. The inclined form of the extension is a defining feature that makes it a unique addition to the mature gardens of North West London.

The project has successfully achieved its objective of providing a larger and more functional kitchen extension while also enhancing the overall appearance of the property. The new extension and refurbished house have been well received by the client and are now ready for the contract phase

10
Mar

A double-height basement extension to the Clapham Conservation Area.

Double-height Basement Extension | Architects for Clapham

forresterarchitects, in collaboration with interior designer Callender Howorth, is currently undertaking a full refurbishment with double-height basement extension to a house located in Clapham, South London. The property is undergoing extensive remodelling, including the addition of a new basement floor, a double-height rear extension, and a loft studio. The design approach aims to retain the traditional period features of the house while incorporating modern features for a contemporary living experience.

One of the key features of the new extension is the direct access it provides to the garden. The extension has been designed to be double-height, allowing for an abundance of natural light to flood the space. This new addition will create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, ideal for social gatherings and entertaining. In addition to the new extension, the top floor of the house is being reconfigured to provide a new loft studio. This space will provide a versatile area for a variety of uses, including an office, study, or additional bedroom. The existing garage will be reconfigured to provide a discreet side entrance, which is ideal for maintaining the privacy of the occupants. Despite being located in a difficult location, the project has received planning permission due to the innovative design approach taken by forresterarchitects. forresterarchitects has been able to incorporate modern features while preserving the traditional period features of the house, which is located only a short walk away from Clapham Common.

The end result of this project will be a unique, contemporary living space that combines the best of modern design with traditional features. The project demonstrates that with the right design approach, it is possible to achieve planning permission for a dream home even in challenging locations.

04
Feb

A new maisonette to the Kensington Conservation Area.

Maisonette Refurbishment | Architects for Kensington & Chelsea

forresterarchitects recently submitted a full planning application for a new extension to a maisonette in Campden Hill Gardens in Kensington & Chelsea. The extension is a two-storey structure that will provide a new kitchen on the raised ground floor and additional bedrooms on the lower ground floor. The design offers a modern architectural solution that respects and contributes to the immediate context of the area. The simple form of accommodation of the rear extension draws inspiration from the traditional brickwork fabric to the rear.

The extension provides increased floor space, allowing for the creation of ancillary space without compromising the existing floor plan. The arrangement of open-plan living spaces and more private bedrooms on the lower ground floor defines a simple hierarchy of spaces. The maisonette is accessed from the existing communal entrance at the raised ground level and aims to provide extra space beyond the current floor plan, overcoming the restrictions of the lower and raised ground floor. Each of the new bedrooms in the lower ground floor will have access to the rear garden terrace, providing daylight and natural ventilation. As part of the refurbishment, the existing facade will be refurbished while respecting the style and detailing of the original period property.

The proposal offers a modern approach while preserving the traditional aesthetic of the area. By carefully considering the limitations of the existing floor plan and providing additional space, the extension and refurbishment will result in a functional and aesthetically pleasing rental investment. 

01
Aug

Listed Building Consent for a Grade II Church in Denmark Hill.

Listed Building Consent | Architects for Southwark | Denmark Hill, South East London

forresterarchitects have recently submitted Listed Building Consent for the interior refurbishment of a Grade II Chapel. The project proposes the installation of a replacement screen within the foyer. The screen configuration will remain as the current screen, with large double doors that open onto the Lobby from the Church Meeting Room.
 
The newly designed foyer screen improves visibility between the Meeting Room and the Entrance Foyer. It establishes connectivity to the Chapel. Given the historical setting, the proposed screen has been designed to be a sympathetic addition. Being both carefully proportioned and made from high-quality materials, the oak frames and polished-brass detailing enhance the visual and architectural character of the vestibule.
 
Significantly the proposal has been designed to have a minimal impact on the existing fabric of the building. Sustainability has been considered as part of the submission. It is more difficult in historic buildings but not impossible for sensitive interventions. Previous improvements have been installed in Grove Chapel’s desire to reduce heat losses and increase the energy efficiency of the building yet retaining a welcoming appearance to visitors of the Chapel.
29
Apr

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

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

forresterarchitects has recently completed a design feasibility study for a simple extension 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.