New project in Kingston

Square One Architects is thrilled to share that we've been chosen to work on expanding a detached house in Kingston. This project gives us the chance to improve the current building by smoothly combining traditional and modern elements to make a practical and balanced living area. Our team is excited to collaborate with the client and develop creative designs that go beyond their needs.

The project will involve big changes to all parts of the property. It includes adding a new extension at ground level, an infill extension at first floor level, and extending the roof. These changes aim to make the property more practical, improve its layout, and make it look better. The project will be done thoughtfully, making sure the new parts fit well with the original design to create a unified structure.

The ground floor of the property will be designed to integrate the kitchen, dining, and living areas into an open plan layout, fostering a sense of spaciousness and fluidity. Additionally, the inclusion of a new utility room, pantry, and guest WC adds functionality and convenience to the living space. On the first floor, two bedrooms, a study, and a family bathroom will provide ample accommodation for residents. The proposed roof extension is intended to accommodate a new master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a walk-in wardrobe, adding a touch of luxury to the property's upper level.

We'll be posting more images to show the progress of the project. Keep an eye out for more glimpses of our current and upcoming architectural projects.

Introducing the project schedules

Our client for a house extension in Twickenham recently stressed the importance of showing before and after images to highlight the impressive difference between the existing building and the extended and refurbished one. Their existing house presented some significant issues with internal steps and changes of ceiling level (a consequence of many subsequent extensions carried out in the past) and our project resolved all this issue providing at the same time an additions room.

For most projects it is important to show where you started, in order to explain in more detail the reasons behind the initial brief from the client and the subsequent decisions.

As a practice we work in a bespoke fashion for all the projects we undertake, and we place attention on the clients’ initial brief.

This gave us the idea of preparing a "project schedule" section within our blog with some key project information.

The schedules are also an opportunity to discuss the projects in a more informal way highlighting the challenges that we encountered while designing our extensions or refurbishments, but also discussing the client’s feedback and our experience working with all the other actors involved in the construction process in particular contractors, structural engineers, party wall surveyors, building control etc...

We will also discuss some planning matters, for projects that were in Conservation Areas that naturally present additional challenges.

In this sense the schedules complement the information that is already available in our projects page.

The first seven schedules are now live on our website, please click on the links below:

Schedule #1: Full house refurbishment in Hampton Hill

Schedule #2: Home extension in East Sheen

Schedule #3: Rear extension in Teddington

Schedule #4: House extension in Barnes

Schedule #5: House extension in Byfleet and New Haw

Schedule #6: Rear extension in Hampton Hill

Schedule #7 Rear extension in Hampton

WE'VE UPDATED OUR BROCHURE!

We have updated our brochure to keep our current and potential clients informed about our recent successful projects. Our designs are innovative and sustainable, reflecting our commitment to excellence. Look out for our remarkable projects that demonstrate our dedication to raising the standard of architectural excellence.

If you're interested, we would highly encourage you to click here to take a closer look at our latest projects in a different format.

Our latest brochure showcases our latest photos and meticulously crafted technical drawings, providing a glimpse into our expertise and creativity for projects carried out between 2016 to 2019.

We are excited to feature a range of case studies that demonstrate our expertise and creativity, such as house extensions in East Sheen and Teddington, a rear extension in Hampton Hill, a well-designed annexe in Hampton, a garden office in Hampton, and a modern rear extension in Twickenham. Each section of the brochure includes detailed technical plans, sections, and elevations that reflect the level of detail and precision we bring to every project. Our comprehensive drawings help ensure successful execution and have earned praise from contractors who appreciate their specificity and clarity. This is especially crucial as the drawings play a pivotal role in governing the client-contractor relationship, ensuring clarity and accountability throughout the project. Thus, adequately incorporating detailed drawings into the contract helps establish a strong foundation for successful collaboration and mitigates potential misunderstandings that may arise during the construction process.

Explore our brochure to discover architectural innovation and precise craftsmanship.

The brochure is readily available on issue, ensuring easy access for all those interested.

Don't Move, Improve! 2019

Don't Move, Improve! 2018

We are delighted to be here today at the prestigious Building Centre to witness the highly anticipated winners announcement of the Don't Move, Improve! 2018 competition. This event is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the exceptional design and innovation behind the most captivating new home extension projects in London. It is truly an honour for our team at Square One Architects to have our rear extension project in Hampton Hill showcased in this year's exhibition. We take great pride in our ability to transform spaces and create designs that seamlessly blend with their surroundings, and this recognition only further validates our passion for delivering excellence in every project we undertake.

The project is an extension located at the back of a charming house in Hampton Hill. The primary objective of this addition is to create a seamless connection between the existing living space and the enchanting outdoor landscape. To achieve this, the extension encompasses a spacious kitchen and dining area, carefully integrated with a captivating sunroom. This sunroom captures the essence of the surrounding environment, boasting generous windows, elegantly crafted doors, and even a strategically placed skylight, all of which work together harmoniously to flood the space with an abundance of warm, natural light.

All the glazing in this project has been masterfully manufactured in Sweden. The glass not only meets, but exceeds the most stringent thermal requirements, ensuring optimal energy efficiency and comfort within the building. By adhering to these strict guidelines, the project showcases the unwavering commitment of Square One Architects to delivering quality and sustainability in every aspect of their work.

Rays of Sunshine

For the second consecutive year, Square One Architects is delighted to continue our partnership with Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity. As part of our commitment to making a positive impact, we are once again channelling our resources and support towards this incredible organization's mission of bringing joy to the lives of children across the United Kingdom who are facing serious or life-limiting illnesses. Together, we strive to make a lasting difference, ensuring that these brave young individuals receive the care, attention, and moments of happiness they so deserve.

Rays of Sunshine has helped over 80,000 seriously ill children and their families. Through granting wishes, organizing uplifting events, and offering practical support, they bring hope and joy to those facing tough times. They create lasting memories and provide relief for families across the country. Rays of Sunshine continues to make a difference by illuminating the lives of those who need it most.

At Square One Architects, we are proud to be socially responsible. We are excited to support this charity and their important mission. Rays of Sunshine uses its platform to create a positive distraction for children who are facing challenging circumstances. By bringing joy and happiness into their lives, this incredible group aims to reduce feelings of isolation and enhance their sense of belonging. Moreover, through their compassionate initiatives, Rays of Sunshine not only improves self-esteem but also creates precious memories that will be cherished forever. The smiles they create are not just temporary; they remind us of the power of kindness and give us hope. We believe in their cause and are honoured to stand with them. We are dedicated and fully committed to helping make a difference. Together, we can create lasting change and help those in need.

We are live!

Come join us at at the Ask an Expert RIBA pavilion of Grand Designs Live at London Excel. We will provide free advice to homeowners until 6pm!

At Ask an Expert, Grand Designs Live provides a unique platform for prospective clients to connect and engage with a diverse team of specialists. The panel consists of RIBA architects, skilled interior designers, innovative landscape gardeners, knowledgeable financial experts, insightful planning consultants, and passionate eco specialists. By attending the session, clients can seize the opportunity to present their plans, drawings, and budgets, enabling the experts to offer tailored advice and practical solutions. With such a comprehensive range of expertise, this is an invaluable chance for anyone contemplating construction work on their house in the near future. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!

This is our second participation to the event, and we are excited to be back again! This time, we are bringing even more expertise and support to ensure that attendees have a fruitful experience. Iacopo and Leonidas, will be available throughout the day to offer advice and guidance. Whether you have questions about architectural design, sustainable materials, or innovative construction techniques, they will be there to assist you until late afternoon. Don't miss this opportunity to tap into their knowledge and expertise!

Grand Designs Live

For the second year in a row, we are thrilled to announce that Square One Architects will be participating at the highly anticipated Ask an Expert Section at Grand Designs Live London on May 6th. We couldn't be more excited to connect with fellow architecture enthusiasts and provide our expertise to anyone in need. If you happen to find yourself strolling through the event, don't hesitate to stop by our booth and say hello! We are looking forward to meeting you and discussing your project.

Grand Designs Live is a must-visit event for anyone embarking on a self-build or renovation project. Packed with an abundance of advice and inspiration, this event offers something for everyone. From live talks and workshops to free expert advice and a wide array of exhibitors showcasing innovative home improvement products, you will find everything you need to make your project a success. Additionally, renowned television host Kevin McCloud will be gracing the stage, catching up with familiar faces from the hit TV show and engaging in lively discussions with industry experts. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to gain valuable insights and connect with the leading minds in the field.

Ask an Expert is a convenient and accessible resource that provides valuable tips and advice for all your architectural needs. A team of specialists, including architects, renovation experts, and project managers, will assist you. Whether you need assistance with your plans, budget, or ideas, Ask an Expert offers a comprehensive assessment tailored to your specific requirements. To ensure a smooth and efficient process, we recommend booking in advance. For further information and details, please visit the Grand Designs Live website.

Rays of Sunshine

This year, we partnered with Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity to support their mission of bringing joy and happiness to sick children in the United Kingdom. They organized a charity dinner to raise funds for important medical treatments, create memorable experiences, and provide much-needed breaks for these brave children. The charity’s goal is to make a real difference in their lives and bring some happiness into their world.
In today’s world supporting charitable organizations that align with our beliefs has never been more important. Charities play a pivotal role in addressing social issues, providing aid to those in need, and promoting positive change in our communities.
At Square One Architects, we believe that every child deserves a happy and hopeful future. That's why we are wholeheartedly dedicated to supporting Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity—a source of hope for sick and terminally ill children and their families. Join us in our commitment to support Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity as they work tirelessly to bring happiness, joy, and strength to the lives of vulnerable children who are in desperate need of a glimmer of hope and positivity. Let's work together to brighten their world with love, kindness, and compassion. By helping those who need it most, we will also find fulfilment and purpose in our own lives.

Grand Designs Live

Today is an exciting day for us at Square One Architects because we are going to Grand Designs Live at London's Excel. We will be showing our expertise in innovative designs and architectural solutions. We are excited to meet potential clients and have 25-minute introductory consultations at our 'Ask an Expert' stand. We will answer questions, offer insights, and make meaningful connections. This event is a chance for us to showcase our skills and understand what people want for their dream spaces. We are confident that this experience will be rewarding for both us and our clients as we guide them towards exceptional design.

At the Ask an Expert Zone, you can schedule personalized consultations with specialists in architecture, construction, finance, and interior design. Our goal is to provide tailored advice and guidance for your building and renovation plans. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you make informed decisions and turn your dreams into reality. Whether you need help with architectural design or financial matters, the experts at Grand Designs Live will support you every step of the way. Trust that your project will receive the attention it deserves with our wide range of expertise. Schedule your consultation today at the Ask an Expert Zone and begin your journey towards creating transformative and inspiring spaces.

To make it fair, we will use a first-come-first-serve system for appointments at Grand Designs Live. Our team is ready to help you and provide customized architectural solutions. Contact us now and make your appointment!

Grand Designs Live show

Square One Architects will be present at Grand Designs Live show on Thursday 5 May and will offer consultations to potential clients at the Royal Institute of British Architects ‘Ask an Expert’ stand.

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For the second year in a row we participated to Grand Designs Live at the ExCel centre.

The event aims to be a showcase for homeowners that would like to extend and improve their properties and we felt it was a perfect match for an Architects’ practice like ours.

For the second year in a row we got invited by the Royal Institute of British Architects to provide advice at the Ask an Expert stand.

The idea behind Ask an Expert is to provide some free guidance for potential clients during a thirty minutes design consultation.

Obviously 30 minutes is not a long time, but we felt that we managed to provide some valuable advice to our clients whether this was regarding more procedural issues or specific design related problems.

It was a very fun day out and we received some very positive feedbacks from the potential clients that we met on the day.

We hope that our professional experience convinced clients of the importance of hiring a RIBA Architect for their project. We strongly believe that the choice of hiring an Architect is the first and one of the most important decisions that the potential client can make and in this sense we feel confident that the website Find an Architect by the Royal Institute of British Architects should be the starting point for most clients.

We also had the chance to walk around the ExCeL centre and have a chat with some suppliers. This type of events can be a great starting point for anyone who is thinking to improve or extend their property, especially at very early stages of the process.

We will attend the event again in the future and look forward to discussing design related issues with as many potential clients as possible.

For those who missed the event you can always take advantage of our free first design meeting that is offered here.