THE BLOG

18
Jun

An open plan ground floor to a house in Palmers Green.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Open Plan Ground Floor | Architects for Parsons Green

forresterarchitects have put forward a proposal for a planning application to build a new open plan extension at the back of a detached house in Palmers Green, North London. The new extension would create a big open plan space on the ground floor, perfect for a family room. To achieve this, they plan to remove some of the internal walls and reconfigure the entire ground floor.

The idea behind the project is to create a seamless flow between the different spaces on the ground floor, making it easier for the family to move around and interact with each other. By removing some of the internal walls, they can create a bigger and brighter space that feels more welcoming and spacious. This type of open plan ground floor layout is becoming increasingly popular in modern homes, as it allows families to spend more time together and makes entertaining guests easier. It’s a great way to create a more relaxed and informal atmosphere, as well as making the most of the available space.

forresterarchitects have experience in designing open plan spaces that are both functional and stylish. They understand how important it is to get the layout right and to ensure that the space is well-lit and comfortable to spend time in.

01
May

A design feasibility for a new-build Passive House (Passivhaus) in the Norfolk Broads.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation, New Build

New-Build Passive House (Passivhaus)| Architect for Norfolk Broads | Stalham, Norfolk

forresterarchitects have secured full planning approval for a new build house on the Norfolk Broads. The house will be designed to Passive House (Passivhaus) standards.

The Passive House (Passivhaus) concept aims to dramatically reduce the requirements for space heating and cooling whilst also creating excellent indoor comfort levels. The focus of the Passive House (Passivhaus) is to dramatically reduce the requirement for space heating and cooling, whilst also creating excellent indoor comfort levels.

This is primarily achieved by adopting a fabric first approach to the design, specifying high levels of insulation to the thermal envelope with exceptional levels of air tightness and the use of whole house mechanical ventilation. The heating requirement in a Passive House (Passivhaus) building is reduced to the point where a traditional heating system is no longer considered essential. Cooling is also minimised by the same principles and through the use of shading. Night purging and the use of natural cross-ventilation through open windows is encouraged during the summer months

The new house will be inspired by the light industrial forms which predominate the local surrounding area. The roof forms explored and developed further to provide a modern architectural solution which draws references from these vernacular forms and materials and how they are positioned in the landscape. The accommodation brief is expressed in an informal arrangement of ‘sheds’. The ‘sheds’ in their juxtaposition aim to contribute positively to the local character of the area and the wider environment.

The new build house is almost perfectly orientated benefiting from a South facing facade. To maximise further from the early morning sunshine the house will be orientated a further 10 degrees to the East.

10
Apr

A new London roof to a house refurbishment in the Brackenbury Village.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

House Refurbishment and Rear Extension | Architects for Hammersmith & Fulham | Brackenbury Village, West London

forresterarchitects have provided a full architectural service for a house refurbishment in the Bradmore Conservation Area in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham. A fine Victorian terraced house in the Brackenbury Village. It has been reconfigured to provide four bedrooms. A key design feature of the house is a large principle bedroom with open plan access to a private bathroom. The other bedrooms have been enhanced with fine bespoke joinery. A dynamic rear extension introduces the London roof to provide a modern kitchen and dining room.

01
Dec

Do you own land in a difficult location? It doesn’t mean you can’t get planning permission for the house of your dreams.

Posted by / Extensions & Conversions

Planning Appeal | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects recently succeeded in overturning a decision by the local planning department to refuse a rear extension development in North London. The development was proposed for a unique warehouse conversion that required additional space to reach its full potential. The design proposed a modest extension that blended seamlessly with the existing Victorian warehouse property. However, the planning submission was deemed overbearing and inappropriate in its local context, resulting in the planning department’s refusal.

To proceed with the development, a planning appeal was lodged by forresterarchitects, which demonstrated how the development was in full compliance with current planning policy. Following an inspection by the Planning Inspectorate, the appeal was successful, and full planning permission was subsequently granted, much to the client’s delight. forresterarchitects have extensive experience with planning appeals, and their successful track record demonstrates their ability to navigate the often complex and challenging planning process. forresterarchitects worked closely with clients to ensure that their vision is realised while meeting planning requirements and regulations. This particular project showcases forresterarchitects ability to design extensions that blend seamlessly with existing properties while meeting planning requirements. By proposing a modest extension that harmoniously complemented the warehouse conversion’s character, the team demonstrated their commitment to preserving and enhancing the local built environment.

In summary, forresterarchitects success in this planning appeal highlights their expertise in navigating the planning process and their commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions that meet both client and regulatory requirements.

01
Nov

A cool loft in fashionable North London features in House & Garden.

Posted by / Interior Design

London Listed Architect | Architects for London | forrester architects

forresterarchitects have designed a cool minimalist interior loft conversion which has just been published in the definitive guide to stylish living, House & Garden. It’s not your typical dormer solution. An extra floor was added to a Victorian mid-terraced house but an inspired client required ‘their’ space to be defined at the top of the house. Leaving the chaos of the school day behind. The loft provides panoramic views of the city. The roof topped only by a large glass oval roof-light overhead which slides open to reveal a sparkling moonlit sky.

18
Mar

A garden pavilion has been approved to a detached house in Highgate, North London.

Posted by / New Build

Garden Pavilion | Architects for Camden | Highgate Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects has received planning approval for a garden pavilion in Highgate, North London. The pavilion is located in the rear garden of a detached house and is designed to solve the problem of accommodating visiting family members. The house is shared by two professionals who needed additional space for guests.

The garden pavilion is a sleek and modern structure that provides two double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. The design allows for direct access to the garden and the house, providing flexibility and privacy to the occupants. The pavilion is designed to blend seamlessly with the existing house and the surrounding landscape. The project is located in the Highgate Conservation Area, which is known for its historic architecture and strict planning regulations. forresterarchitects worked closely with the local planning authorities to ensure that the design of the garden pavilion met the requirements of the Conservation Area. The garden pavilion provides a self-contained living space that is perfect for guests or family members who require additional privacy. The design of the pavilion ensures that it is not intrusive to the existing house or the surrounding landscape.

forresterarchitects is known for its innovative and sustainable designs, and the garden pavilion in Highgate is no exception. The pavilion is designed to be energy-efficient and sustainable, with features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Overall, the garden pavilion in Highgate is a testament to forresterarchitects’ commitment to innovative and sustainable design. The project provides a practical solution to the problem of accommodating visiting family members while also enhancing the beauty and functionality of the existing house and the surrounding landscape.

16
Mar

We are listed in the international design magazine House & Garden exclusively for the London area.

Posted by / Interior Design

House & Garden Feature | Architects for London | Forrester Architects

forresterarchitects have made it into the exclusive House & Garden magazine, a top international design and decoration publication, as architects for London. The design master class directory featured in the magazine provides readers with all the information they need to renovate or build their own stylish home.

forresterarchitects have caught the attention of House & Garden with their impressive portfolio of high-profile projects across Central London. Their work showcases the perfect blend of creativity and functionality, resulting in stunning spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The directory is an interactive source of information for those looking to renovate or build their dream home. It provides readers with everything from design inspiration to practical advice on materials and suppliers, making it the perfect guide for anyone looking to undertake a home renovation or construction project.

forresterarchitects inclusion in House & Garden’s design master class directory is a testament to their expertise in the field of architecture and their commitment to providing their clients with exceptional design and building services.

16
Feb

Increase the rental value of your commercial office refurbishment with one simple move. Add a door!

Posted by / Commercial

Office Refurbishment | Architects for Hammersmith & Fulham | West London

forresterarchitects have completed the entrance refurbishment of a commercial property in Hammersmith, West London. A dedicated entrance has been inserted into the East Wing of the newly acquired commercial office building. The new reception foyer to the commercial office floor plate has significantly increased its potential rental value for the client. Add to that a highly visible street frontage the entrance refurbishment presents a new profile for its new occupants, a growing interactive media company. A minimalist language compliments a new frameless glass entrance which improves transparency to the street whilst maintaining key security considerations for the entire building.

01
Jan

A Gambrel and Peg roof is the key feature to a Grade II cottage refurbishment in West Mersea.

Posted by / Listed Buildings & Conservation

Grade II Listed Cottage & Conservation Refurbishment with New-Build Extension | Architects for Colchester | West Mersea

forresterarchitects have presented a design feasibility plan for a Grade II listed cottage refurbishment in West Mersea, Colchester. The Gambrel and Peg tile roof with v-section wooden eaves trough on wooden brackets are listed as key features, and the cottage is to be restored to its original condition. The design brief also includes adding a new-build extension that takes inspiration from the simple forms and materials of local boat sheds, while respecting the surrounding environment. The proposed design features a new dining area and kitchen that doubles as extra bedroom accommodation when the clients have guests. The north/south orientation of the new additions enhances the visual dialogue between the defined garden spaces.

The aim of the project is to preserve the cottage’s historical features while incorporating modern architectural elements that respect its surroundings. The new-build extension will be carefully integrated with the existing structure to create a harmonious and seamless flow. The proposed north/south orientation will improve the natural lighting of the space, highlighting the garden spaces and creating a more pleasant environment. The design solution draws inspiration from the vernacular, incorporating simple forms and materials that complement the surrounding landscape. The dining area and kitchen have been designed to be a focal point of the cottage, providing ample space for family gatherings and entertaining guests. The new bedroom accommodation will be an asset to the property, offering flexibility and convenience to the clients.

The proposed refurbishment of the Grade II listed cottage and new-build extension demonstrates forresterarchitects commitment to creating designs that integrate seamlessly with their surroundings while respecting the historical and cultural significance of the existing structure. The project is a testament to their expertise in conservation and renovation, and their ability to create innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients.

18
Oct

A stonemason’s new garden studio added under Permitted Development in Stoke Newington.

Posted by / Commercial

Permitted Development | Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington

forresterarchitects have recently completed a garden studio project in Stoke Newington, North London under permitted development rights. The studio was built for a former client and was designed to be a bright and airy space that also doubles as a terrace in the evenings. It was built as a sculpted form, with one carved feature stone wall, and serves as a stonemason’s studio during the day.

The studio is a stunning addition to the garden and was secured under permitted development rights. This means that the project was approved without the need for a planning application, making the process faster and more efficient. The use of permitted development rights allowed the client to save time and money while still achieving their desired outcome. In the evenings, the studio transforms into a terrace that provides an ideal location for catching the late evening sun and enjoying a gin and tonic. The bright and airy design of the studio creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Overall, the garden studio project in Stoke Newington is a beautiful example of how forresterarchitects have used permitted development rights to create stunning and functional spaces that meet the needs of their clients. The sculpted form and carved feature stone wall are unique and eye-catching, while the versatility of the space as both a studio and a terrace makes it a practical addition to any garden.

See other projects in your Borough:

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Project Type:

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