THE BLOG

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.

27
Dec

In through the outdoor.

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!

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

Shortlisted by New London Architecture for a Don’t Move Improve awardA 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.
04
Dec

Early sketches for interlocking houses on a Brownfield site in North London.

New Build Houses| Architects for Hackney | Stoke Newington, North London

forresterarchitects has designed four new build houses in Stoke Newington, North London, on a previously unused brownfield site. The project was developed using simple brick constructions with oversized windows that give each of the new-build homes a bright, spacious feel. Each of the four houses is interlocking and features double-height living rooms with framed views of the surrounding area. The upper floors are light-filled and spacious, with plenty of natural light, while the open-plan kitchens offer direct access to private external terraces located between each house.

forresterarchitects have paid close attention to the layout and design of each property, ensuring that they maximise the available space and provide plenty of natural light. The new-build homes are designed with energy efficiency in mind and incorporate sustainable technologies where possible. The use of oversized windows helps to provide passive solar heating and cooling, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation systems. In addition, the terraces between each house provide a buffer zone, helping to reduce noise and provide a private outdoor space for residents to enjoy.

forresterarchitects worked closely with the local council to ensure that the new-build homes fit seamlessly into the surrounding environment. The new-build homes are designed to blend in with the existing street scene and are sympathetic to the local context. The project provides much-needed new-build homes for the area, while also demonstrating how brownfield sites can be developed sustainably to create high-quality, energy-efficient housing.