THE BLOG

12
Apr

A new one bed flat extension in the garden vernacular

One Bed Flat Extension | Architects for Oxford | Temple Cowley, Oxford

forresterarchitects have developed a unique one bed flat extension for a corner plot in Temple Cowley, Oxford. The project involved creating a one-bedroom flat extension that considered the site constraints imposed by the irregular property demise. The feasibility studies revealed that a conventional rear extension would obstruct access to the rear garden or potentially conflict with the neighboring property.

Instead, forresterarchitects designed a new addition that allows for the reconfiguration of the existing floor plan. The dining and lounge areas are located between the bedroom and extension to provide a bright and airy living environment. Additionally, the new extension provides a second bedroom and a dedicated studio/library for the academics. The design solution is considered and well-executed, providing a considered response to the unique challenges of the site. By creating a one-bedroom flat extension that works with the property’s irregularities, forresterarchitects were able to maximize the space available and provide a comfortable and functional living environment. The addition of a second bedroom and dedicated studio/library adds value to the property and meets the client’s specific needs.

25
Feb

A little gem in the Canonbury Conservation Area frames views of an easterly sky

Glazed Facet Extension  | Architects for Islington | Canonbury Conservation Area

For an Islington townhouse in the Canonbury Conservation Area, forresterarchitects have designed a new extension that features a unique faceted glazed structure. The design concept is simple yet striking, with a series of angles that provide a rich sculptural form and define the new garden lounge extension.

The angles on the facade of the extension provide a notional subdivision for the different functions within the space, which in turn inform the language of the facade and the extent of privacy to the rear. This approach has resulted in a beautifully designed space that is both functional and visually appealing, offering the clients a contemporary and elegant living space. The faceted glazed structure allows for natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The angles on the facade also create interesting and dynamic shadows throughout the day, adding to the visual interest of the space. 

The new garden lounge extension is a seamless addition to the Canonbury townhouse, complementing the original design while adding a contemporary touch. forresterarchitects have carefully considered the surrounding conservation area, ensuring that the extension is in harmony with its surroundings while still making a bold design statement.

 

18
Jan

Facade retention with full basement added to a house in Tottenham

Facade retention refurbishment with full basement | Architects for Tottenham | North London

In Tottenham, forresterarchitects is proposing a facade retention refurbishment with a full basement for a neglected semi-detached property close to the grounds of Tottenham Hotspur football stadium. The extensive dereliction means that only the front facade of the property will be retained, and a new basement floor will be added. To provide local professionals with living space, forresterarchitects has planned to create four flats in different configurations. A careful engineering strategy has been put in place to ensure a logical construction process without the need for full demolition.

The new building will be reconstructed in the same style as the existing property, with a new outrigger extension added to the rear over three floors. The proposed plan seeks to bring life back to a long-neglected property and provide much-needed housing for local professionals. forresterarchitects has a track record of successful projects, including a full house refurbishment with a basement floor in fashionable Stoke Newington. The project involves extensive site investigations and opening up works to determine the state of the property. forresterarchitects has proposed a logical construction strategy to minimise the environmental impact and cost of the project. 

The proposed facade retention refurbishment with a full basement in Tottenham represents an innovative solution to the challenge of revitalizing a neglected property. By retaining the original facade, forrresterarchitects is preserving the character of the area, while the addition of new living spaces will provide much-needed housing for local professionals. 

12
Nov

A riverfront Townhouse reorientated to focus on the Swan River

Riverfront Refurbishment | Architects for Perth, Australia | Claremont, Perth

Located in Claremont, Perth, a riverfront townhouse is a coveted property for its idyllic location on the banks of the Swan River. However, after purchasing the townhouse, the clients realized that it had lost its 1970s charm and required refurbishment. To achieve this, forresterarchitects planned to enliven the simple interior with period fixtures and fittings, while creating a modern open-plan environment.

To begin with, the upper floor bedrooms were reconfigured to provide simple ensuite facilities, thereby enhancing the functionality of the space. forresterarchitects then reoriented the living room, kitchen, and dining space to form a new focal point for the house, which would be the ever-changing Swan River. This would create a seamless connection between the interior and the exterior, offering the clients a stunning view of the river. The incorporation of period fixtures and fittings added character and warmth to the space, while the modern open-plan design ensured a seamless flow between the various living areas. The reconfiguration of the upper floor bedrooms ensured that the space was functional and met the clients’ requirements.

The refurbishment created a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern design, offering the clients a comfortable and elegant living space that they could enjoy for years to come. forresterarchitects ensured that the design was in harmony with the location, and the end result was a beautiful riverside home that was both functional and visually appealing.

13
Oct

A two-storey extension is proposed to West Hampstead garden

Two Storey Garden Extension | Architects for Camden | West Hampstead, London

forresterarchitects has proposed a two-storey rear extension to replace an inadequate existing extension in a West Hampstead maisonette. The new design aims to rationalize the hierarchy of the maisonette by placing living rooms on the raised ground floor and bedrooms on the lower ground floor. In planning terms, the proposed extension has been designed according to the 45-degree rule, which aims to prevent the loss of daylight to neighbouring properties, avoid excessive overshadowing of gardens and preserve a reasonable standard of outlook.

The new extension will be designed to meet the needs of modern living and provide a larger, more functional space for the client. By improving the layout, the new design will allow for more natural light to enter the living spaces, creating a brighter and more comfortable environment. In addition to improving the living spaces, the extension will also be designed to complement the existing architecture of the maisonette. The materials and finishes used will be carefully selected to ensure that they match the existing building and enhance its overall aesthetic appeal. 

The proposed extension will be constructed with a focus on sustainability, with materials selected for their environmental impact and energy-efficient technologies used throughout the building. This approach will not only reduce the environmental impact of the project but also result in lower energy bills for the homeowners.