THE BLOG

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.

25
Jun

A Grange in Yorkshire with a sustainable future.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

Sustainable Grange | Architects for Leyburn | Yorkshire Dales

 The new owners are very excited by their find; an extensive refurbishment will be necessary to provide a sustainable Grange for the future. A traditional Grange and barn in Yorkshire has been neglected for many years. Its location and off grid status makes a sustainable heat strategy the most viable solution for the future. Set within remote farmland it will provide ground source heat as the most cost effective solution for a self-sufficiency. The house has some wonderful features with exposed timber beams, a stone tiled roof and half a metre thick solid walls all to be retained as original. The character of the house will be complimented by a full house refurbishment and insulating the property is a priority. The barn will be used by the boys as a bunk room and will function away from the house.

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. 

16
Mar

A secret cottage in the garden.

Posted by / Interior Design

Cottage Mezzanine  | Architects for Camden | Highgate, North West London

A cottage mezzanine has been added to the garden cottage. Our client has a house in Highgate that comes with a cottage situated in the garden. Despite its unique features, the cottage has remained underutilised, and the clients have decided to upgrade it into a standalone accommodation for their in-laws. Additionally, the space will provide a study area for the client’s daughters and their friends, and can be used as a party venue following dinner parties or for watching films.

To achieve this, forresterarchitects plan to enliven the cottage mezzanine by orientating it to run the length of the cottage, ensuring it remains a visual connection to the ground floor. This will provide a dedicated study area with extra bedroom space. To increase the flexibility of the space, clever joinery will be incorporated to conceal the bed when not in use. The renovated cottage mezzanine will serve as a multifunctional space that can accommodate the in-laws when they visit, and also provide a study area for the children. The clients can also use it as a venue for parties or for watching films, thereby utilizing the space to its full potential. The incorporation of clever joinery will ensure that the space can be transformed seamlessly from a bedroom to a study area or party venue, providing maximum flexibility for the clients.

Overall, the refurbishment of the cottage mezzanine will provide the clients with a versatile space that can be utilised in various ways. forresterarchitects have planned the renovation carefully, taking into consideration the need for flexibility and the unique features of the cottage. The result will be a modern, functional space that will enhance the clients’ living experience.

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.

02
Jan

Double-height maisonette in the Dartmouth Park Conservation Area.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

Double-Height Maisonette | Architects for Camden | Dartmouth Park Road, North West London

forresterarchitects are working on the complete reconfiguration of a two-bedroom double-height maisonette on Dartmouth Park Road in North West London. The maisonette currently has a fine South facing aspect. However, the internal layout is to be entirely reconfigured to create an open plan double-height space with the main living rooms moved to the rear of the property. This will provide better connectivity with the rear garden and make the maisonette feel more like a new house.

Two additional bedrooms will be relocated to the rear of the property. The redesign will create an open and airy space with natural light flooding in from the rear garden. The new living space will be perfect for entertaining and relaxing. The redesign will also improve the functionality of the space, making it more practical for modern living. The redesign of the double-height maisonette will provide a much-improved living environment for the clients. The reconfiguration will allow for a better use of space, creating a more open and inviting atmosphere. The new design will also bring the living areas closer to the rear garden, providing an improved connection to nature.

forresterarchitects are known for their innovative designs that combine functionality with style. The redesign of this maisonette is no exception. With their attention to detail and their understanding of the needs of modern living, the new design promises to create a unique and practical living space. The project is currently in the planning stages, and work is expected to begin soon.

27
Dec

In through the outdoor.

Posted by / Commercial

School Library | Architects for Hackney | Clissold Road, Stoke Newington

forresterarchitects has been working on design feasibility proposals for Betty Layward School in North London, specifically regarding the improvement of the school’s library located on Clissold Road, Stoke Newington. While progress has been made in regards to the library’s content, there is an issue with external circulation. The entrance to the school is situated between two townhouses, making it difficult for parents and children to drop off in the morning due to restricted width, leading to bottlenecking at the entrance. In response, alternative strategies are being implemented, such as a large loop around the perimeter of the school to provide some relief. However, this requires entering the school through the car park and exiting through the front gate. While this circular route does alleviate the feeling of swimming against the tide of parents when leaving the school, further strategies are being explored to improve external circulation.

Despite these circulation issues, the library has been well-received by the students and is in high demand, with books flying off the shelves. forresterarchitects have focused on creating a functional and attractive space for the students to learn and explore literature, as well as incorporating modern design elements to enhance the library’s overall aesthetic appeal. The library’s design reflects the school’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inspiring learning environment for its students.

Overall, forresterarchitects is dedicated to working with Betty Layward School to ensure that its facilities meet the needs of its students and staff, while also contributing positively to the surrounding community in Hackney. The proposed improvements to the school, including the library and external circulation, are just one step in this ongoing partnership.

10
Dec

Our non-conformist house extension is shortlisted for Don’t Move, Improve! 2016

Posted by / Interior Design

Don’t Move Improve | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

Shortlisted by New London Architecture for a Don’t Move Improve award. A modern interpretation of the London Roof it provides a modern and unique language for the rear of the mid terraced house. The roof structure is expressed as exposed timber rafter with a plywood ceiling which adds a simple but natural warmth to the interior. The roof construction avoids the traditional roof construction of slate tile. Instead, a single polymeric roof membrane is used to provide a well insulated lightweight warm roof construction.
 
As part of the reconfiguration works the kitchen has moved into the middle of the house floor plan. A new open plan galley kitchen provides a better connection between the lounge to the rear and the dining room. The dining room is now orientated for the early morning sun-rise to the East and ideal for breakfast. A large hexagonal glass window frames views of the small urban garden from the living room to the West.

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Project Type:

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