Category: Extensions & Conversions

11
Feb

Concert Room to a duplex loft refurbishment

Concert Room Loft | Architects for Hampstead | forrester architects

A newly acquired duplex loft apartment provides the setting for a new concert room loft in North London. An extensive refurbishment involves remodelling the entire space to provide a personal venue for concerts and recitals. The double height gabled roof-space will be enlivened by revealing the existing king post trusses which provide a striking architectural back-drop to the main room. A curved open treaded stair leads from the mezzanine bar area which overlooks the concert room. Beyond the mezzanine, there is of course a green room for the guest performers. A number of ancillary spaces provide for food preparation and an extensive wine cellar to entertain.

27
Nov

A little light relief to a double height gallery space in a London townhouse

Refurbishment with Air Source Heat Pump | Architects for Hackney | forrester architects

A little light relief. A glimpse of the ceiling to a double height gallery space to a London townhouse is part of our latest full house refurbishment. An Air Source Heat Pump has replaced the gas boiler and dormer mounted solar panels contribute to the client’s responsive and sustainable energy solution. A very welcome government grant of £7,500 is in the post.

31
Oct

An inclined timber extension informed by the client’s style

Inclined Timber Extension | Architects for Newham | East Ham, East London

An inclined exposed timber roof structure informs the interior and extends outside to form a garden pergola extension to the South-facing terrace in East Ham. As well as providing a passive solar shading device to the interior the rafters create a wonderful shaded terrace overlooking the garden. A slight offset to the rafter lines informs the pergola orientation to shade the interior from the sun path, which align with the wide boarded engineered timber floorboards to provide a visually interesting interior.

The client’s character informs the interior with a distinctly retro style with a touch of the Scandinavian influence complimenting a way of living, pairing its minimalist form with affordability. Add to that distinctive mid-century modernist furniture provides simple lines and natural materials to offer natural warmth across the interior.

 

 
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 recently completed the extensive refurbishment of a period cottage in Surrey, once divided into two. The brief was to preserve its traditional features while upgrading all five bedrooms with new bathrooms. In the main reception room, two back-to-back open fireplaces and a new antique parquet floor create a warm, inviting atmosphere, seamlessly connecting the family rooms. At the rear, an open-plan layout now links the family and garden rooms to a spacious island kitchen, designed for gathering, relaxing, and entertaining. The kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances and a generous island counter for everyday practicality. A new dormer conversion adds a master bedroom and ensuite overlooking the landscaped garden, providing a private retreat for the homeowners.

Throughout the renovation, forresterarchitects carefully preserved period details, including exposed beams and traditional brickwork, ensuring the period cottage retains its historic charm. This project demonstrates how heritage and modern living can blend seamlessly, transforming the cottage into a stylish, functional home that meets the needs of a modern family.