Tag: Camden

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.

13
Oct

A double-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.

 

05
Jul

Add an artist’s studio as ancillary accommodation to your garden flat.

Ancillary Garden Studio | Architects for Camden | Camden Square Conservation Area

A modest rear extension needs some consideration due to its wonderful south facing aspect. During the best of weather the existing extension is unbearable and over exposed . A considered architectural solution is essential. An ancillary garden studio is proposed. Simple in form, the new roof is articulated to deflect direct sunlight. The exposed timber structure supporting the roof extends onto the external garden terrace to provide an integrated garden pergola structure. The passive solar shading is complimented further, over time, the pergola will be draped in foliage to provides further layering to the rich composition of the facade.

17
May

Two neighbours add a roof top extension to double the area of their maisonette.

Roof Top Extension  | Architects for Camden | Camden Square Conservation Area

The owners of the top floor flats to Cliff Road, together, aim to improve the quality of the existing housing stock. A new roof extension is proposed to the existing flat roof terrace. It provides bright and airy living rooms to the new roof space. Each flat currently provides one bedroom accommodation. Both flats, as part of the planning submission, will carry out a full refurbishment as part of the works as each property requires modernisation. Both flats will be modestly reconfigured to improve the accommodation and sanitary provision.

11
Aug

A blue steel truss mezzanine transforms a single storey cottage refurbishment.

Blue Steel Mezzanine | Architects for Camden | Highgate, North West London

A small cottage in our client’s garden was under utilised but held great potential; that potential has now been realised. A new blue steel mezzanine has been inserted to run the length of the cottage to provide a significant increase in usable floor area. The cottage interior has enlivened to provide a simple but bold stand-alone accommodation for the in-laws. When the cottage is not being used by guests it retains the flexibility to provide a study area for the client’s daughters. Or in the evening it can be used as a party venue following dinner parties or where everyone can watch a film. To assist in the flexibility of space clever joinery will be incorporated to conceal the beds when they are not in use.

07
Apr

A new double height art gallery forms a new focal point to a townhouse refurbishment.

Gallery for a House | Architects for Belsize Park | Camden, North London

A gallery for a house forms part of the brief to a new full house refurbishment in Belsize Park, London. The house is tired but retains some interesting period features to the wall frieze and ceilings. It does need to be extended to provide an appropriate level of accommodation for entertaining. A key need of the brief is to provide an art gallery for the client and it seems a double height space to the rear of the house is well suited. The rear elevation aims to reconnect the house with the garden and provide a unique architectural solution.
 
To the top of the house, the windows are under-sized and the bedroom spaces seem a secondary consideration. We aim to open the roof space to provide a modern loft style environment for the children. The master bedroom will occupy the first floor in its entirety with a new bathroom, dressing room and study with great views over the city of London.
27
Mar

A mezzanine loft is added to a Belsize Park townhouse roof space.

Townhouse Mezzanine  | Architects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

To the top of a fine detached house in Belsize Park, the windows are under-sized and the bedroom spaces seem a secondary consideration; it was likely to be accommodation for house staff. Through a number of feasibility studies, we have highlighted the potential to provide an additional floor within the loft space. Our intention is to open the roof space and provide a modern loft style environment. This will provide a more enlivened environment for the children’s bedrooms. The ceiling to each bedroom is sculpted to form a void created between the mezzanine. A new loft stair will provide a feature to the new open-plan loft room with the mezzanine structure will be incorporated into the existing roof structure.
07
Dec

Our Conservation Area house refurbishment features in Don’t Move, Improve!

Don’t Move Improve | Architects for Belsize Park | Camden, North London

Don’t Move Improve. A new rear extension and house refurbishment in North West London improves a fine semi-detached house in Belsize Park. A series of angled facets reconnects the rear extension with the garden to give a unique architectural solution. As with most Victorian houses, the kitchen is too small for a house of this size. Only a modest kitchen sink window the offers a glimpse of the glorious gardens beyond. The client wanted the house to feel better connected to the garden. The extension is expressed as series of solid and void angled facets. They have been used to set up a notional hierarchy to give a level of transparency between the house and gardenThe kitchen enjoys a longer footprint with a frameless window to give views across the neighbouring gardens. Exposed timber joists incorporate low energy strip lighting across the kitche

08
Oct

A new-build house near Hampstead Village.

New Build House | Architects for North West London | Forrester Architects

We’re looking into a new build house solution for a current client. There is already a house on the plot but it is considered by Camden Planning of no architectural merit. It will be demolished. In its place a new open plan house of approximately 3000sq/ft. Near to Hampstead Village, the house will be set within the local conservation area. Our client is keen to avoid over developing the site and the house will not be overbearing scale and massing. The street facade will present a masonry frontage to complement the traditional context. To the rear, the garden is South facing and a sustainable energy strategy will be adopted to make the most of its perfect aspect.

13
May

Avoid the conventional and there is no Downside!

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 gardenThe 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 extensionThe 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.
16
Mar

A secret cottage in the garden.

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
Feb

No kitchen extension is just an island.

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.

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.

28
Aug

Asymmetrically arranged windows overlook a mews house courtyard garden in Belsize Park.

Mews House RefurbishmentArchitects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

forresterarchitects has designed a mews house located in Belsize Park, North West London, with a beautiful garden courtyard adorned with a long-established ivy. The asymmetrical arrangement of the lounge windows at the rear facade of the house offers stunning views of the south-facing aspect overlooking Primrose Hill, which has been enlarged to maximise the view. forresterarchitects have cleverly designed a double-height living space to take advantage of the scenic view, and the enlarged windows allow natural daylight to permeate throughout the space, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance.

The garden courtyard is a hidden gem and provides a tranquil oasis for the occupants to relax and unwind after a long day. The established ivy adds to the overall aesthetic and creates a beautiful backdrop for the garden. The garden is perfect for outdoor entertaining, and the double-height living space overlooking the garden provides the perfect indoor-outdoor flow.

forresterarchitects has incorporated the beautiful garden and south-facing aspect into the design of the mews house to create a unique living space. The lounge windows offer an unparalleled view of Primrose Hill, which changes throughout the day as the natural light shifts. The natural light adds a sense of warmth to the space and creates an inviting atmosphere. forresterarchitects have succeeded in creating a perfect balance between the interior and exterior spaces, providing a harmonious living experience for the residents.

 

24
Apr

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

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

04
Jul

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

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.

14
Feb

A double height lounge created within a mews house refurbishment in the Eton Conservation Area.

Mews House RefurbishmentArchitects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

forresterarchitects have submitted a design feasibility study for a mews house refurbishment in the Eton Conservation Area, Belsize Park in North West London.
 
The house is currently configured as an unremarkable two bedroom house. It is dated and has not been refurbished since it was originally built in the 1970’s. The bedrooms are long and badly proportioned. The window is mean and internally the natural daylighting is poor.
 
Each mews house was originally configured with an integral garage space next to the front door. Over time the planning department has allowed the removal of the garage space. All the other mews houses have over time converted their garage into a bedroom or lounge space to improve the layout of the house. The courtyard to the front of the Mews is now everyone’s preferred car parking space. This was our client’s initial need but there were other opportunities
 
The house is arranged over three floors. The kitchen as originally intended will remain on the ground floor. A small under stair WC will be removed to create an open floor plan layout between the new bedroom and kitchen. The kitchen will be re-planned to engage more directly with the small courtyard garden which enjoys a bright south facing aspectA long established ivy covers the garden courtyard and provides a wonderful secret garden to the rear of the house. The lounge windows overlooking the garden are to be enlarged to take advantage of the fine views overlooking Primrose Hill.
 
The upper floors accommodate a lounge and the other two bedrooms. As part of the refurbishment, each bedroom is re-planned with an ensuite. The small lounge is improved by a double height lounge space with the structural rafters of the roof exposed. The timber rafters compliment a new feature staircase which rises within the double height space. A bespoke timber screen offers varying levels of privacy between the bedroom and lounge.

01
Dec

A new artist studio in the Belsize Park Conservation Area.

Artist Studio Extension | Architects for Camden | Belsize Park, North West London

forresterarchitects have submitted a design feasibility proposal for an artist’s garden studio extension in the Belsize Conservation Area, Camden. The proposed design approach is inspired by the traditional garden pergola and aims to provide a modern architectural solution that blends seamlessly with the character of the site and its surrounding environment.

The proposed extension is designed as an accordion-like structure that expresses the client’s requirements and creates a visual dialogue between the studio and the garden. The orientation of the new structure is north/south, enhancing its interaction with the environment and respecting the site’s character. The proposed design aims to be discreet yet expressive, contributing to the existing building’s character without dominating it. The design proposal explores the traditional garden pergola’s qualities and reinterprets them in a modern architectural language, creating an elegant structure that expresses its function and provides a space for artistic inspiration. The project’s objective is to create an artist’s studio that integrates into the natural surroundings of the garden and the character of the conservation area. The proposal is submitted for design feasibility, aiming to explore the possibilities of creating a discreet extension that contributes to the site’s character. The proposed design is an innovative approach that provides a unique space for artistic creativity while respecting the site’s historical context.

By exploring the traditional garden pergola’s qualities and reinterpreting them in a modern architectural language, the proposed extension creates an elegant and functional space for artistic inspiration. The proposal respects the site’s historical context and aims to be discreet while contributing to the existing building’s character.

21
Oct

Stay tidy. A bachelor pad with extensive bespoke joinery solutions.

House Refurbishment | Architects for Camden | Primrose Hill, North West London

forresterarchitects recently conducted a design feasibility study for the refurbishment of a duplex apartment in Primrose Hill, North West London. The apartment is situated within a modern purpose-built development, located in a fashionable area of North London. In order to create more space, the design incorporates clever storage interventions to the lack of space within the apartment.

The client, a bachelor, had specific requirements for the refurbishment project, including the need to keep the apartment tidy. To achieve this, forresterarchitects employed bespoke storage solutions throughout the design, creating living wall solutions to maximize the use of space. The apartment’s layout was kept simple, and sliding doors were installed to avoid taking up valuable space while also providing an open plan feel when left open. By working closely with the client and considering their specific needs, forresterarchitects were able to provide a design that met their requirements and maximized the available space. The use of bespoke storage solutions throughout the apartment allows for efficient use of space, while the sliding doors provide a flexible living area that can be adapted to suit the client’s needs. This refurbishment not only provides additional living space but also adds a contemporary touch to the design, bringing the apartment up to date and making it more appealing to potential buyers or renters.

By employing bespoke storage solutions and incorporating a dynamic rear extension, forresterarchitects have maximised the available space and provided a modern and flexible living area that meets the client’s specific requirements.

01
Sep

A design feasibility study for a twin townhouse in the Bloomsbury Conservation Area.

Twin Townhouse Refurbishment | Architects for Camden | Bloomsbury, West Central London

forresterarchitects have submitted a design feasibility proposal for the refurbishment of twin townhouses located off Oxford Street in Bloomsbury, West Central London. The proposed works aim to re-establish the internal hierarchy of a late Victorian house, which is not realizing its full potential in the modern family lifestyle. The design approach aims to retain the formal reception rooms on the ground and first floors while the bedrooms will be located on the upper floors. The kitchen and dining rooms will be retained on the lower ground floor, and both properties will be rewired with new plumbing throughout.

The proposed refurbishment aims to bring new life to the twin townhouses, creating a layout that is better suited to the way modern families live. The retained formal reception rooms on the ground and first floors will provide a perfect space for family activities and entertaining guests, while the upper floors will offer private spaces for rest and relaxation. The lower ground floor will house the kitchen and dining area, providing a perfect space for family gatherings and meals. The design proposal will require the installation of new plumbing and rewiring of both properties. These upgrades will ensure that the modern family has access to all the amenities they need. The proposal also aims to respect the historic character of the properties while providing a modern layout.

Overall, the design feasibility proposal for the twin townhouse refurbishments off Oxford Street in Bloomsbury, West Central London, is an innovative approach that aims to bring new life to a traditional layout.

 

18
Mar

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

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.

01
Sep

A Victorian piano factory is going future proof in its new office fit-out.

Commercial Office Fit-Out | Architects for Camden | Camden Town, North West London

forresterarchitects has recently completed a commercial office fit-out project in Camden Town, North West London. The media analyst’s headquarters, which was originally a Victorian piano factory, needed to be upgraded and reconfigured to accommodate their growing needs. The existing building infrastructure was dated and at full capacity, which made it challenging to improve the functionality of the space.

To address these issues, forresterarchitects took an innovative approach to office space planning. They used dedicated furniture and workstations to increase the occupancy capacity of the office space by 30%. The new layout maximises the available space and provides a more comfortable and productive working environment for the employees. Moreover, the improvements to the power and data supply ensured uninterrupted access to the internet, which is critical for a business that relies entirely on digital information. The upgrades were carried out with the future in mind, ensuring that the power supply would remain on without fail. The design approach involved the integration of new technology into the building’s infrastructure, making it possible for the occupants to work more efficiently. For example, the use of high-speed data networks and advanced lighting systems creates an environment that promotes productivity and creativity.

Overall, the office fit-out project undertaken by forresterarchitects in Camden Town is a successful example of how innovative thinking can transform outdated spaces into modern, functional, and productive work environments. The upgrade to the power and data supply and the introduction of new technology ensures that the building is future-proofed, providing a flexible space that can adapt to the changing needs of the occupants.

16
Aug

A Grade 2 property isn’t untouchable. Add a glass box in the Jeffrey’s Street Conservation Area.

Grade 2 Remodelling | Architects for Camden | Jeffrey’s Street Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects has been tasked with a Grade II remodelling project in Jeffrey’s Street Conservation Area, North West London. The project involves an end of terrace Edwardian house in Camden Town with a stucco facade featuring vertical sliding shutters concealed within the window cills, a key listed feature. The client desires an expansion of the accommodation, which is currently modest.

To meet the client’s needs, forresterarchitects proposes a modern glass rear extension that engages with the garden while remaining concealed behind the perimeter garden wall. The design’s aim is to keep the original features of the building intact, with the only sign of intervention being the profiled edge of the horizontal roof beyond. The glass extension offers a modern approach to expand the accommodation while keeping the building’s character and charm. The proposed design offers a balance between old and new, with the glass extension providing a modern addition while retaining the building’s original Edwardian architecture. The design offers a contemporary space for modern living and entertainment while retaining the original character of the building.

forresterarchitects approach to the project is a careful balance between retaining the original features of the building while accommodating the client’s needs for expansion. The proposed glass extension offers a seamless transition between the original building and the modern addition, providing a beautiful and functional living space.

01
Jun

A lower ground conversion flat with an under utilised terrace in the Hampstead Conservation Area. Bring it in from the cold.

Lower Ground Conversion | Architects for Hampstead | Hampstead Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects has recently completed the renovation of a lower ground floor flat in the Hampstead Conservation Area, located in North West London. The original property was a one bedroom private dwelling with access to a private garden, but the proposal aimed to create a two-bedroom private dwelling with an extended kitchen and improved sanitary accommodations.

To achieve this, the internal layout of the property was reconfigured to provide a larger kitchen extension with direct access to the terrace and garden through sliding/folding double glazed units. Additionally, the former kitchen space was reconfigured to create a new bedroom with direct access to the garden. The aim was to extend the property demise to provide more space for the improvements. Sanitary accommodations were also improved and increased to provide a larger bathroom and an en-suite to the master bedroom. With these changes, the property has been transformed into a modern and comfortable dwelling that meets the needs of contemporary living. The Hampstead Conservation Area is known for its architectural and historical significance, which makes it an ideal location for architectural projects.

The renovation of the lower ground floor flat in Hampstead, North West London has created a comfortable and modern two-bedroom private dwelling with an extended kitchen and improved sanitary accommodations. The renovation is a perfect example of how contemporary living spaces can be created while preserving the character of a historically significant area.

 

18
Apr

A mansion block refurbishment is reconfigured in the Bloomsbury Conservation Area.

Mansion Block Refurbishment | Architects for Camden | Bloomsbury Conservation Area, West Central London

forresterarchitects recently completed the refurbishment of a mansion block in the Bloomsbury Conservation Area, West Central London. The flat was spacious and had a south-facing aspect, but its communal lightwell provided inadequate light levels to the interior. To address this issue, forresterarchitects introduced large sliding doors to the living and kitchen rooms, creating a more open-plan layout and allowing natural light to flood across the depth of the flat.

The reconfiguration also involved modernising the bathrooms and providing fine joinery wardrobes that complemented the bedrooms. The new kitchen layout included the incorporation of a walk-in larder, increasing the overall area of the kitchen. These changes not only resolved the light issue but also enhanced the functionality and aesthetics of the flat. As the flat is located in the Bloomsbury Conservation Area, it was crucial to ensure that the refurbishment was in keeping with the area’s historic architecture. forresterarchitects carefully selected materials and finishes that complemented the existing features of the building. The result is a modern and elegant living space that respects the historic context of the surrounding area.

The success of this project is a testament to forresterarchitects expertise in designing sympathetic and practical solutions for refurbishments in historic areas. Their attention to detail and sensitivity to the existing architecture have resulted in a beautiful and functional space that meets the needs of the client while respecting the historic context of the area.

01
Jul

A modern new build house in the Hampstead Conservation Area.

New Build Development | Architects for Hampstead | Hampstead Conservation Area, North West London

forresterarchitects, in collaboration with another architect, have been granted planning permission for a new build house in Hampstead, North West London. The new development will replace an existing 1930’s chauffeur’s house with a modern, open-plan design. The ground floor will provide a large, open space that looks out onto a landscaped garden, and the double-height lounge will feature a 6m high library. The design includes an art gallery as part of the main circulation route, allowing visitors to view artwork as they walk through the house. The bedrooms are located on either the front or rear of the house, with primary views overlooking the garden. Sustainable features such as solar thermal panels, air-borne heat recovery, and rainwater harvesting will be incorporated into the design. The new build house has a contemporary aesthetic that stands in contrast to the more traditional architecture found in the Hampstead Conservation Area.

The development process involved the demolition of the existing house, with the new house built in its place. The open-plan design allows for an efficient use of space, providing a sense of connection between the interior and exterior. The design prioritizes natural light and creates a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The art gallery is a unique feature of the design, adding an element of cultural significance to the house. The gallery is situated in the main circulation route, allowing visitors to appreciate the artwork as they move through the space. Sustainability is a key element of the design, with the use of solar thermal panels and air-borne heat recovery reducing the carbon footprint of the house. The design also incorporates rainwater harvesting, which collects and reuses rainwater for non-potable uses such as watering plants and flushing toilets. The inclusion of sustainable features not only reduces the environmental impact of the house but also provides cost savings for the homeowner.

The new build house in Hampstead represents a departure from traditional architecture found in the area, with a contemporary design that prioritizes sustainability and an efficient use of space. The house incorporates unique features such as the art gallery and the 6m high library, adding an element of cultural and artistic significance to the property. The design is an example of how modern architecture can coexist alongside more traditional buildings, providing a new interpretation of the Hampstead Conservation Area.

01
Jun

A change of use for a former office block in Camden Town.

Change of Use| Architects for Camden | North West London

forresterarchitects are currently refurbishing a former commercial office in North West London, to convert each floor into a series of two-bedroom apartments. The property required a change of use to suit the new development plan. To the ground floor, a new retail development will be added, offering a fresh commercial proposal to the bustling Camden High Street thoroughfare.

The project involves a comprehensive renovation to transform the outdated office space into comfortable, modern living units. Each floor will be reconfigured to include two bedrooms and other essential living spaces, with careful consideration given to the efficient use of available space. The ground floor will accommodate a new retail development that will add commercial value to the property, complementing the residential units above. The development’s location on Camden High Street is an ideal location for the retail space, which is set to attract a lot of foot traffic.

forresterarchitects is taking a comprehensive approach to the refurbishment of this property and deliver a building that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, with great attention to detail. The team is working closely with the client to ensure that their vision for the project is achieved, and all stakeholders are satisfied with the outcome.