THE BLOG

24
Apr

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

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

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.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

Basement Extension | Architects for Clapham | forrester architects.

forresterarchitects, in collaboration with interior designer Callender Howorth, is currently undertaking a full refurbishment of 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.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

Maisonette Refurbishment | Architects for Kensington & Chelsea | forrester architects

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. 

26
Jan

Absent_The School Library!

Posted by / Interior Design

School Library | Architects for Hackney | forrester architects

A school in Stoke Newington recently lost its library to the IT room, but the new Head Teacher plans to change that and has enlisted the help of  forresterarchitects to re-establish the library for the children to enjoy and focus on reading. A design feasibility proposal has been approved, and the library works will take place over the Easter half-term. The project involves starting from scratch, with only the four walls of the classroom remaining.

To keep up with evolving technologies, the library will feature a mixture of paper and electronic media, and bespoke furniture will be arranged to create three informal reading zones with easy access to bookshelves. The bookshelves will be accessible to all ages, and can be moved aside when needed to allow for a large seating area focused on a whiteboard. The goal is to provide a library that reflects the school ethos of inspiring, developing, and nurturing every child to have the confidence to learn. The project is a departure from the recent trend of schools focusing on technology and digital media over physical books, and aims to promote a love of reading among the students. The design is intended to create a welcoming and comfortable environment that encourages students to spend time in the library and develop a passion for books.

The project is a collaborative effort between the school and forresterarchitects, who have expertise in designing spaces for education. The library will be an important resource for the school and the community, providing a space for learning and fostering a love of reading in the next generation.

10
Dec

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

Posted by / New Build

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 landscape. The 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.
08
Nov

A non-conformist London roof returns to Stoke Newington.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions, House Refurbishment

Rear Extension and House Refurbishment | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects have completed a full house refurbishment to a fine Victorian terraced house in Stoke Newington. The house had not been decorated for many years and a refurbishment was well overdue.  A new non-conformist rear extension was proposed. A modern interpretation of the London Roof provides the extension with a unique language for the house. The roof structure is expressed as exposed timber joist with a plywood ceiling which adds a simple but natural warmth to the interior. A full architectural service was provided from inception through to contract administration and completion. 

The roof construction avoids a traditional cold roof construction of slate tile and rafter. Instead a single ply polymeric roof membrane provides a lightweight well-insulated alternative. A large hexagonal glass window frames views of the small urban garden from the living room.

As part of the reconfiguration works the kitchen has been moved into the middle of the house. A new open plan galley kitchen provides a connection between the lounge and the dining room which has moved to the front bay windowed room.  The dining room is now orientated for the early morning sun-rise to the East and perfect for breakfast. Other works to the house involve the conversion of the original roof space to provide a traditional loft conversion. This adds a new floor of accommodation for guests. A wet-room shower room has been located on the top floor landing to avoid losing any bedroom space. The house was configured as a three bedroom house now provides five bedrooms.  As part of the refurbishments works the entire house has been rewired with new plumbing throughout. Each room has been provided with hard-wired CAT 5 data connectivity.

 

05
Sep

A new garden studio for fashionable Notting Hill.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Two Bed Studio | Architects for Kensington & Chelsea | West London

forresterarchitects has recently submitted a planning application for a new detached two-bed studio in Notting Hill, West London. The aim of the project is to provide extra studio accommodation within the rear garden, whilst respecting and contributing to the character of the site and its immediate environment.

The proposed concept design offers a modern architectural solution, with the new structure being orientated to capture the south-facing aspect to enhance the garden environment and create a visual dialogue between the studio and the garden beyond. The studio itself is designed to be detached from the main house, offering a sense of privacy and a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The design of the studio has been carefully considered to ensure that it is sympathetic to the existing architecture of the site, whilst also incorporating modern features and amenities. The building has been designed with a contemporary aesthetic, featuring clean lines and a minimalist design that is both functional and stylish. Large windows allow for ample natural light to flood into the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Inside, the studio is designed to provide comfortable and functional living space for its inhabitants. The two-bed studio offers flexibility, with one bedroom being used as a guest room or office space. The open-plan living and kitchen area provides a spacious and inviting space for relaxation and entertaining, whilst also offering modern amenities and appliances.

Overall, the design of the two-bed studio reflects forresterarchitects commitment to creating modern and innovative architectural solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The project demonstrates the studio’s ability to blend contemporary design with traditional architecture, whilst also taking into account the specific needs and requirements of their clients.

01
Aug

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

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

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.

04
Jul

A double height volume to a maisonette refurbishment in the Dartmouth Park Conservation Area.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Maisonette Reconfigured | Architects for Camden | North West London

forresterarchitects has submitted a design feasibility report for the refurbishment of a desirable maisonette in Dartmouth Park, which forms part of an imposing end-of-terrace Victorian house in North West London. The property is bursting at the seams, and the client wants to reconfigure the internal layout without moving out.

The current configuration of the maisonette comprises two bedrooms with a south-facing aspect. However, the proposed plan aims to completely reconfigure the internal layout to realise the property’s full potential. The bedrooms will be relocated to the rear of the property, while the main living spaces will be moved to the rear. One of the key design features of the proposal is the creation of an open plan double height space that opens onto the rear garden. This design will bring in ample natural light and create a spacious, airy feel in the property. The new layout will allow the client to enjoy better use of space and make the most of the property’s potential. The property’s location in Dartmouth Park, North West London, makes it an ideal candidate for architectural projects. Forrester Architects’ design feasibility report demonstrates their commitment to creating modern living spaces while preserving the character of the building.

The proposed design aims to reconfigure the internal layout completely, with the creation of an open plan double height space that opens onto the rear garden as a key feature. The renovation is a perfect example of how modern living spaces can be created while preserving the character of a historic property in a desirable location.

16
Jun

A duplex refurbishment to a second penthouse in St Johns Wood.

Posted by / Interior Design

Duplex Penthouse Refurbishment | Architects for Westminster | St John’s Wood, North West London

forresterarchitects have successfully completed the refurbishment of a duplex penthouse in St. John’s Wood, North West London, the second penthouse in a prestigious development for the same client. The new apartment required a fresh approach to enliven the space and make it a desirable investment property.

forresterarchitects opted for a simple, muted palette to suit the client’s taste, which creates a calming atmosphere and allows the apartment’s luxury features to shine. An open plan configuration was retained from the previous refurbishment, which maximizes the sense of space and natural light in the apartment. In contrast to the previous Rococo interior, the new design features a sleek, modern aesthetic that provides a sense of vitality to the apartment. This is achieved through the use of clean lines, minimalist detailing, and contemporary finishes. The result is a sophisticated and stylish living space that will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers or renters. The duplex layout of the apartment offers a sense of privacy and separation between the living and sleeping areas. The upper level features a master suite with a spacious bedroom, dressing area, and ensuite bathroom, while the lower level includes a second bedroom and bathroom, along with an open plan living, dining, and kitchen area.

Overall, forresterarchitects have once again demonstrated their expertise in creating stylish and functional living spaces that meet the needs of their clients. The new duplex penthouse in St. John’s Wood is a testament to their skill and creativity, offering a sleek and modern living space that is both luxurious and practical. forresterarchitects have successfully created a beautiful and functional living space that is sure to be a desirable investment property for years to come.

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