Our approach

A slender addition to a Victorian townhouse maximises the potential of the plot by utilising redundant space at the side of the property. The main family space facing the garden is elongated creating a more social environment, with the existing kitchen and island relocated, opening-up more space for both formal and informal seating. Through a new doorway there is a utility area, with a laundry chute, and storage space beyond.

To the first floor, the extension connects into the existing beneath a frameless glass skylight, providing access to the new family bathroom and office space. In turn, this allows the former bathroom to be converted into an additional bedroom. The old brickwork to the side of the house is exposed internally, expressing both the original character and lending a strong materiality to the spaces.

The form of the extension is developed by the creation of two volumes, derived from the proportions of the house and split by a band of smooth red brick. These volumes are then broken where they meet the house to define the junction between old and new. A large opening is then inserted into the ground floor of the house to expand the family space into the garden.