Project schedule #7 Rear Extension in Hampton

Project schedule

Year: 2018-2019

Location: Hampton, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames

RIBA Design Stages: 0-5

Architect:

Square One Architects

Structural Engineer:

Steve Nicolaou

Building Control:

Building Control Approval

In this schedule we will revisit a project designed in 2018 for a rear extension in Hampton.

This was a very fun project for a young couple and their lovely dog. The existing house was a typical terraced property that had been extended at loft level.

The ground floor of the house also featured a rear extension probably from the 1980’s. The extension had been poorly built at designed and needed renovation. This is a very typical scenario, house extensions built in the 80’s are often mediocre construction with hardly any insulation and poorly performing windows.

In this case the rear extension was also not making the most out of the full width of the site leaving a side-patio that was essentially wasted space.

Internally an opening had been created between the reception room and the rear. More and more clients are asking us to revert these types of feature. The front reception room was usually designed to create a buffer between the street and the more private rear of the house and people are starting to appreciate this feature more and more.

Our project targeted all the problems highlighted above with a new rear extension that included a bright kitchen and dining area and a new WC and utility room in the darker section of the ground floor.

We analysed daylight carefully in order to provide as much natural daylight to the extension as possible. The before and after pictures speak for themselves.

The clients’ feedback was great, they felt the ground floor had been resolved with a rear hallway leading to the ground floor WC (separated from the rest of the living and dining areas). The rear extension features large skylights and Crittall style French doors and window (supplied by Fabco Sanctuary). They also appreciated having a very private front room.

The result is a very practical layout with an open and bright living area that the clients will certainly enjoy in the years to come.

Before and after images

Open plan

Kitchen

External view

Side return

Project schedule #5 House Extension in Byfleet and New Haw

Project schedule

Year: 2018-2019

Location: Byfleet and New Haw, Runnymede Borough Council

RIBA Design Stages: 0-5

Architect:

Square One Architects

Structural Engineer:

Glencross & Hudson

Building Control:

Assent Building Control

This project was for an extension to a large detached house in Byfleet and New Haw for a family of three with a small child.

When the client got in touch with us in first instance, we visited the site and found that the house needed a renovation. The client was also not satisfied with the ground floor arrangement that was very partitioned and formed rooms that where both small and dark.

At first floor level the layout was more acceptable, however the house lacked the presence of a real master bedroom with a dressing area and an en-suite bathroom, which is something that you would expect from a property of this size.

Our brief was to extend a house with a rear extension and form a new open plan layout including a kitchen, dining area and sitting area. The client also requested a first-floor side extension on top of an existing garage that would provide space for an en-suite bathroom and dressing area linked to an existing bedroom.

We considered two options for the existing garage. The first one was to retain it and build on top of it and the the second one was to demolish and rebuild. As it often happens in these cases the option to replace the existing garage ended up being more cost-effective. It is not unusual to find period structure that are not able to carry any extra load from a structural point of view, especially at foundation level. In these instances, we always suggest our clients to hire a builder for a couple of hours, perform several trial pits and then submit the results to a structural engineer that will decide whether the existing structure is suitable or not. All the details will then need to be confirmed with Building Control.

The ground floor rear extension also features a set of large bi-fold doors that opens towards the rear garden and a window in correspondence of the kitchen sink. A set of two large flat roof lantern skylights also help bringing daylight in the new open plan area.

The first-floor side extension also features rear and front windows and a large skylight that guarantees uniform levels of daylight throughout the whole floor plan.

The clients’ feedback was very positive, and we appreciated hearing that they used their new spaces in a more practical way with their toddler always in sight. That's a big advantage of open plan layouts!

Before and after images

Rear elevation

Kitchen and dining area

Front elevation

Project schedule #4 House Extension in Barnes

Project schedule

Year: 2017-2019

Location: Barnes, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames

RIBA Design Stages: 0-5

Architect:

Square One Architects

Structural Engineer:

Glencross & Hudson

Building Control:

Building Control Approval

We started this project in 2017 for the client, a family of two.

The brief included a ground floor rear extension and a loft conversion to an existing terraced house in Barnes, South West London. The property fell within the Barnes Green Conservation Area.

As it often happens in these cases the challenges were not just architectural and structural. Planning in these instances can represent a potential roadblock, especially with the property falling in a Conservation Area.

The proposals were discussed with the client and then agreed with the planning officers. In this case we worked very hard with the Council proving the presence of similar precedents on the road and discussing the best design for the roof in order to be in keeping with the style of the Conservation Area. The initial proposals for a larger rear dormer was amended to allow for two smaller conservation style lead dormers that were welcome by the Council.

The property was also extended to the rear in order to form a new open plan layout with a galley kitchen opening on a patio that constitutes the only outside area of the house. In order to maximize the feel of space between the inside and the outside it was decided to have a flush threshold between the floors and use the same tiles for both the kitchen area and the patio. A set of large sliding doors also helped to create the feeling of a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor space. This project is an example of how good design can help maximize the spatial feeling even when square footage is limited.

An additional technical complication was the presence of a manhole within the existing property which had been double sealed. In order to carry out our extension and alterations we had to move the manhole to the new patio and reach an agreement with Thames Water.

We also pushed both the contractor and structural engineer to conceal the new structure within the existing ceiling to form a smooth transition between the various spaces at ground floor level.

In the end we were very pleased with the result and consider this project to be extremely successful.

Before and after images

Ground floor kitchen and dining

Ground floor patio and kitchen area

Second floor guest bedroom

Work in progress: House extension in Kingston

Another view of the preliminary design for a ground floor rear extension to a semi-detached house in Kingston. The intent is to integrate the existing window and chimney breast with the new kitchen, creating a low window seat that can be enjoyed by the family.

In this view we tried to highlight the relationship between the kitchen area to the left and the open plan dining space to the right. The seamless ceiling transition helps to make these two spaces feel connected and cohesive from a design perspective.

The same floor will be used for both the existing floor plan and the new extension, leaving the two structural piers as the only demarcation between the original rear of the house and the extended portion.

An interesting feature of the existing house is the presence of a side window that is our intention to turn into a window seat that will feel like an extension of the kitchen itself.

Window seats are a fun feature that help creating some interesting corners that can relate to other elements of the room, in this specific case the kitchen island and breakfast bar right in front of it.

The kitchen, island, window seat and the extension’s window and skylights will all contribute to create an interesting space to be lived by our clients.

Work in progress: Rear extension in Kingston

Another image of our new project for a rear extension in Kingston featuring an open space kitchen/living/dining

This image highlights a very important design feature that is often overlooked, the seamless ceiling transition between the existing house and the new extension.

From a design perspective this is an ideal solution when we are dealing with flat ceilings with an identical head height. The lack of any beam or bulkhead separating the spaces creates the feeling of a cohesive space with one unobstructed ceiling. The other major advantage of this type of solution is that daylight coming from the skylights in the new extension does not get blocked by any obstructions at ceiling level. This guarantees optimal daylight distribution within the floor plan.

There are some structural implications with this type of solution that need to be assessed by qualified engineers and architects and discussed with he builder, however the end result is always wotlrth the effort. In the case of this project in Kingston the open plan will feel bright and spacious with a cohesive design that will give the impression of a very natural space that was always meant to be there.

We can’t wait to see this project finished and show how effective this solution can be through the final pictures. In the meantime you can see another project for a rear extension where a similar solution was adopted by clicking here.

A picture of the project in Wimbledon under construction can be seen here.

Planning approval for one of our projects in Hampton

We are excited to announce that we have received approval to redesign a semi-detached house in Hampton. The project includes making changes inside to improve how the space works and looks. We are also thrilled to add an extension on the back of the ground floor, giving our clients more room and a better connection to the outdoors. A new extension in the loft will also be added to create a cozy retreat.

The strategic north-facing orientation of the back of the house presents an ideal opportunity for us to capitalize on the abundant natural light, as we can confidently design and incorporate expansive glazed surfaces without worrying too much about the potential negative effects of overheating.

We are now entering an important part of the project - the detailed design phase. This is when the project takes its final shape and gets ready for construction. During this phase, we will work closely with our clients, helping them make decisions on things like materials, lighting, windows, and more. These decisions will be carefully included in the final design, so that it matches what the clients want. The detailed design phase is a big step towards making the project a reality.

We can't wait to start working on this amazing home for our clients in Hampton.

Render vs completed photo of our latest house extension in Byfleet & New Haw

It's always interesting to look back at the design and evaluate how the final product compares to the initial intent. In this image a photo realistic render (above) is compared to a final image of a kitchen space.

It is always essential to keep track of the relationship between designed spaces and final build project in order to verify the validity of our vision and take note of what has been improved during construction or what could have been built differently.

In the case of this project for or a rear and side extension to detached house in Byfleet and New Haw we were pleased to see that our 3D model rendering (first image above) looks very similar to what the contractor delivered on site.

First and foremost, the size of the openings and the subsequent amount of daylight received by the internal spaces was correctly predicted by the virtual analysis carried out through the rendering engine. Second, the materials that the client had chosen where confirmed to be a good match for the type of space that we had designed.

This project proves once again that 3D modelling and rendering tools can provide an invaluable help to both the Architect and the client.

By using these tools, the Architect can convey an idea in a very straightforward manner and the client can understand it right away, taking the necessary decisions when requested by the Architect.

We feel that the best stage to provide this type of drawings to a client is detail design where decisions about materials and certain technical details need to be finalised. Although there is a benefit in producing preliminary 3D models at earlier stages of the design, we see little point in generating super realistic images without any decision being made by the client regarding large items such as finishes, kitchen etc…

new haw project now completed

Our project in New Haw is finished - we've successfully completed a rear extension and first floor side extension for a large detached property. The carefully designed additions seamlessly blend with the existing structure, improving both its function and appearance. The rear infill extension provides a lot of space for a modern living area, great for hosting guests or spending time with family. The first floor side extension adds extra rooms for bedrooms or a home office, providing flexibility for the homeowners' changing needs. The completion photos show the impressive transformation, displaying the attention to detail and high-quality workmanship that went into the entire project.

As architects at Square One Architects, our dedication to lighting design is always at the forefront of our work. We understand the importance of both natural daylight and artificial lighting in creating spaces that not only look stunning, but also enhance the overall well-being of those who inhabit them. From the moment we begin a project, we carefully consider how to maximize natural light, allowing it to filter through strategically placed windows and skylights, while also incorporating innovative artificial lighting solutions. The photos showcased here serve as a testament to our commitment as a practice to design spaces that are not only well ventilated and bright, but also transform the quality of life for our clients, allowing them to thrive in spaces that inspire and uplift.

To learn more about this project and see the incredible before and after photos, please visit our website, where you'll find a detailed overview and a captivating visual journey.

House in Byfleet and New Haw coming soon

Sneak peek: a video of a photo shoot for our project of a house extension in Addlestone. Pictures coming soon!

The client initially reached out to Square One Architects in early 2018 with the exciting opportunity to expand their 4-bed detached house in Byfleet and New Haw.

Seeking to enhance their living space, the client's brief entailed the construction of a new kitchen diner that would seamlessly merge with the existing layout. In accordance with the client's vision, the ground floor would be extended by approximately 2.5m to the rear, allowing for a spacious and inviting open plan area.

Throughout the design process, the integration of the extension's roof with the existing structure was carefully considered to ensure a harmonious and unified aesthetic. Additionally, the client expressed a strong desire for bi-fold doors at the back of the extension, along with strategically placed skylights to flood the new open space with abundant natural light.

To further cater to the client's needs, the project also encompassed a first-floor side extension, facilitating the creation of a luxurious master bedroom complete with a dressing room and en-suite bathroom.

Project in Hampton under construction

The ground floor extension depicted in the initial images showcases Square One Architects' intricate design approach for a grand detached 1930s house in the Hampton. The primary objective of the client was to fashion a vast, unobstructed area that seamlessly blends with the charm and essence of the original structure, transforming the space into a cohesive design.

The client approached us in 2017 with a project for an extension of their beautiful 1929 detached house situated in Hampton. The initial brief was to transform the existing conservatory into a stunning solid wall extension that would perfectly align with the house's current footprint. As part of this extension, we proposed the idea of opening up the east facing walls in the dining room, not only to enhance circulation throughout the ground floor but also to establish a captivating visual connection with the beautiful garden outside. Understanding our client's desire to brighten up the existing house, we dedicated ourselves to significantly improving its intake of natural daylight.
To further enhance the functionality of the house, we also designed a side extension, forming a brand new and invaluable utility room. Upstairs, our team focused on remodelling the existing family bathroom, elevating its overall design and functionality.

Our latest project in Twickenham

If you're looking for inspiration for a rear extension project in Twickenham, you won't want to miss our latest work! We invite you to take a closer look at our recently completed project, which showcases our expertise in thoughtful design and seamless integration. Located in Twickenham, this rear extension seamlessly extends the living space of our client's home, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor areas. Discover how our innovative approach to architecture has transformed this property, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal.

We started this project back in 2016 when the client approached us with an idea to extend their 2-bed semi-detached terrace in Twickenham. The clients already had planning approval for a single-storey rear extension, but they were not satisfied with the design approach of their previous consultant. Thus, they came to us seeking our creative input to maximize the potential of their available space.
One of their main concerns was to reconfigure the internal layout of the entire ground floor to create a more seamless and functional flow for their family. They wanted ideas and suggestions on how to improve the utilization of each area. Considering their requirements, our team produced a comprehensive feasibility study showcasing several design options.
With the feasibility study in hand, we engaged in discussions with the clients and presented our findings. They were pleased with the options we provided and expressed their willingness to submit an amendment to the previous planning drawings. This was an important step towards realizing their vision and enabled us to proceed with the subsequent design phases.

These captivating photos capture the essence of our client's vision and determination, alongside our meticulous approach to architectural design. Each image tells a story of collaboration and creativity, showcasing the fusion of the client's aspirations and our team's expertise.

Rear extension in Wimbledon

We have recently visited one of our projects on site which involves a rear and side extension to a large 1930's house in Wimbledon. The transformation of this home is truly remarkable. The new impressive kitchen/living space is not only bright and spacious, but also beautifully designed to seamlessly blend with the existing structure. The large windows flood the area with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. As we toured the space, we imagined the homeowner joy when she can enjoy their new surroundings. The open kitchen and living area is great for gathering and entertaining, and the view of the garden adds a peaceful touch. The project's outstanding outcome is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of the entire team. Each member brought their skills and expertise, working together to overcome challenges and deliver great results. The client played a crucial role in driving the project forward with determination and a clear vision. Her effective communication and enthusiasm pushed the team towards success. The synergy between our team and the client's enthusiasm led to a project that exceeded expectations.
Our team of architects have been working hard to turn the client’s vision into reality. Once everything is perfect, we'll share captivating photos of the project. Stay tuned for the big reveal, where you can take a visual journey through this remarkable undertaking that will captivate and inspire you. Stay tuned for more updates!

Rear extension in Twickenham almost completed

We have recently visited one of our projects in Twickenham which includes a rear brick extension to a 1930 house. The extension allowed to have a new bright and spacious Living/Kitchen/Dining open space. More pictures to follow soon!

The client, a family of four with two small children, approached for this project in 2016.

The original property was a typical 1930’s semi-detached house in Twickenham featuring a non-original extension and conservatory at the back. The extension was used as a utility room.
We always stress the importance of making good use of the rear of the property since this is the prime space of the house in terms of views to the rear garden, access to daylight and privacy. Using the rear of the property for a utility room (or in some cases a bathroom) is a missed opportunity to do something special, because a utility area doesn’t need necessarily a window.

The clients’ wish was to create an open plan area at the rear of the property by extending approximately 2.5 meters and replacing the existing conservatory and utility room that where in need of repair and where under used anyway.

The existing kitchen was moved to the new open plan area and part of the existing kitchen was then used as a utility space.

Daylight was ranking high in the clients’ wishes and we carried out our usual detailed analysis in order to foresee the exact amount of natural light intake throughout the year.

The project also featured a large window in correspondence of the kitchen sink, a set of large bi-folding doors and two skylights centered respectively with the window and the doors.

We obtained planning approval for this project in early 2017 and subsequently we sent the drawings to several contractors and requested quotes back.

Shortly after obtaining planning approval we also obtained building control approval and we issued a full set of drawings for construction purposes in May 2017.

This was an example of a project designed in a relatively short amount of time, but with great attention to details. The extension checked all the boxes in the clients’ brief, was delivered within their budget and the agreed time frame and the end result exceeded their expectations.

New Project: Home Extension in East Sheen

Check out here our new project for a major redevelopment of a charming single family house in East Sheen. With a focus on preserving the character and enhancing the functionality of the existing structure, our team at Square One Architects has undertaken a comprehensive renovation to create truly spectacular spaces.

The client's commitment to this project has been unwavering, serving as a driving force behind its success. From the very beginning, they demonstrated a deep understanding of the project's vision and goals. Their active involvement in the decision-making process and their eagerness to collaborate with all the consultants has been instrumental in ensuring that the project moves forward smoothly. Constant dialogue between the client and the consultants has fostered a strong sense of teamwork and allowed for the exchange of ideas, resulting in more innovative and effective solutions. This open line of communication has not only strengthened the relationship between the client and the consultants but has also led to a higher level of coordination and a deeper understanding of the project from all parties involved. The client's commitment, combined with continuous dialogue, has undoubtedly been a key ingredient for the success of this project.

We're excited to share that our year-long project is now finished. It's been an incredible journey of creativity, innovation, and teamwork. Today, we're releasing photos that show the amazing result of our hard work. These photos highlight our vision and attention to detail. We're very proud of the outcome, which reflects the synergy and passion of our team.

Wimbledon rear extension on its way

Works for a large rear extension in Wimbledon have started. The project will include a new bright open-space Kitchen/Living/Dining area, Utility space and guest WC. 

UPDATE: The works have now been completed. In this post we look back at the whole process, from concept to completion. You can see the final pictures here.

Works for a large rear extension in Wimbledon have started. The project will include a new bright open-space Kitchen/Living/Dining area, Utility space and guest WC.

UPDATE: The works have now been completed. In this post we look back at the whole process, from concept to completion. You can see the final pictures here.

This project provides some good rear extension ideas when it comes to large semi-detached properties with an existing side extension.

The client approached us in 2016 with a potential project for a single storey rear extension to her large 1930’s semi-detached house in Wimbledon.

The client’s wish was to extend the ground floor of the house to the rear and to make use of the whole width the plot. The extension would be approximately 3 meters long.

Due to the presence of a non-original side extension the proposed works did not fall under the parameters set by Permitted Development and therefore we applied on behalf of the client for a householder planning application that the Borough of Merton approved in early 2017.

The project also included some internal works that included opening the existing kitchen and dining area to form an open plan layout with the new extension. It was decided to lift the structural beam subdividing the existing rear wall of the property and the new extension in order to achieve a flush ceiling transition between the two spaces.

The client was very adamant on having a very well day lit space. Our daylight analysis and several discussions with the client led to design a set of French doors and window in the kitchen area, including a large skylight above the dining table.

The project also included some other minor works like the installation of a new ground floor WC at ground floor level, the reconfiguration of the first-floor family bathroom and conversion of an existing garage to a utility room.

Our latest project!

Check our latest project, the stunning Rear Extension in Hampton Hill here. In this project we have seamlessly merged contemporary design with the charm of the surrounding neighbourhood. This transformative addition not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the property, but also provides the homeowners with a functional and versatile living space. From the moment you step foot into this intelligently designed extension, you will instantly be captivated by the abundance of natural light that floods the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The sleek lines and modern finishes offer a fresh and stylish aesthetic, while the open-plan layout allows for seamless integration between the interior and exterior spaces.

It's incredibly thrilling to see a project you've carefully designed come to life. Every detail you've imagined and drawn becomes real before your eyes. Each day brings progress, as beams are lifted, walls are built, and spaces take shape. It's an amazing sight that fills you with pride, knowing your ideas are turning into a functional and beautiful structure. Each milestone brings anticipation, and seeing your vision become a reality is incredibly satisfying.

At Square One Architects, we are grateful to work with amazing clients who understand and actively participate in the collaboration between architects and contractors. Their dedication, and open communication help us coordinate seamlessly and achieve successful project outcomes. They provide clear project goals, address concerns promptly, and participate in decision-making, contributing to smooth workflow and timely completion. We value their input and appreciate their willingness to work closely with us, fostering a productive and harmonious relationship. Their unwavering support and trust in our expertise are invaluable in delivering high-quality designs that meet their vision and expectations.

mews house in Twickenham: construction well under way!

We recently visited the site to assess the current status of the ongoing refurbishment project for a coach house in Twickenham. During our visit, one aspect that immediately caught our attention was the remarkable amount of natural light flooding the interior space, courtesy of the four brand new skylights by Velux. The infusion of daylight not only enhances the aesthetics but also creates a warm and inviting ambiance inside. Stay tuned as we are excited to share more captivating images of this project in the upcoming updates!

The project will be developed on two levels of the existing mews house, resulting in a thoughtfully designed space that maximizes functionality and aesthetics. The ground floor will showcase a cosy bedroom and a well-appointed bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort in a tranquil setting. Moving up to the top floor, the layout will be carefully crafted to accommodate a modern kitchen and a spacious living area. This strategic decision was made after an extensive concept design phase, during which we presented different options to our client. By exploring various alternatives, we were able to determine that dedicating the top floors to the living spaces would offer unparalleled access to abundant natural light and beautiful views. Such a deliberate arrangement will create an inviting atmosphere and foster a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, enabling the future users to truly embrace the beauty of their surroundings.

The project is currently under construction and making good progress. There is a lot of activity happening, showing that our vision is coming to life. The contractor is working hard to finish the electrical and plumbing tasks, and we look forward to seeing the project completed on time.

At Square One Architects, we love blending the past and the future. We are passionate about preserving historic buildings because we believe in their power to shape communities. When working with these buildings, we carefully balance keeping the original essence while incorporating modern design. We collaborate closely with our clients to make sure their vision respects the historical importance of the space. More than just maintaining the physical structure, we view historic buildings as windows into the past, offering insights into a different time. By revitalizing these buildings, we honor their legacy and invite people to connect with history.
At Square One Architects, we love exploring old buildings, big or small. We enjoy finding all the special details that make each one unique. Our goal is to keep these historic landmarks important and loved, by fixing them up, making them useful for today, and adding new touches too. We don't just care about how they look or work, but also about the feelings and memories they bring. We work closely with our clients to create spaces that give respect to the past and excitement for the future.

New Project in Hampton Hill

We are thrilled to announce that we have been recently appointed as the chosen architects to undertake the exciting task of redesigning the ground floor of a stunning 1930 single-family house nestled in the heart of Hampton Hill. This project includes the addition of a rear extension, which is set to transform the entire space. We are looking forward to sharing more images of this project with you in the near future. Stay tuned for updates!

The clients have expressed a strong desire for their kitchen and dining room to be seamlessly connected, resulting in a spacious open plan area that offers breath taking views of the garden. We thoroughly explored this concept and came up with a design solution that not only achieves their vision but also enhances the flow of natural light throughout the space. To further enhance their connection with the garden, we also discussed extending a portion of the ground floor towards the rear to create a stunning sunroom. This thoughtful addition not only provides a tranquil space for relaxation but also allows for the creation of a carefully positioned patio that maximizes the benefits of daylight throughout the day.

The new sunroom will become a cherished addition to the house, providing the clients with a unique and tranquil space to appreciate the beauty of their rear garden. Designed with careful consideration, this sunroom aims to seamlessly integrate the indoors and outdoors, creating an extraordinary connection between the building and the natural environment. This harmonious fusion will be achieved through the strategic incorporation of expansive windows, skylights, and doors that allow an abundance of natural light to flood the room and offer beautiful views of the surrounding greenery. The resulting space will be a sanctuary within the envelope of the property, enabling the clients to unwind and enjoy nature from the comfort of their own home.

As part of the project scope, our team will incorporate a newly designed guest WC. In addition to that, we will be introducing an extra utility area/pantry to provide ample storage and ensure convenience for the homeowners.

First images of Twickenham mews

We are pleased to share the first image of our latest project - the conversion of a coach house in Twickenham. Our architects have combined modern elements with the original character of the structure. This image showcases the perfect mix of old and new, creating a unique and inviting space. More updates on this project will follow soon!

The client initially approached Square One Architects back in 2015 with the exciting project of converting an existing coach house into a one-bedroom house. The plan was to divide the space into two levels, with the ground floor dedicated to a kitchen, living area, and bathroom. However, upon closer inspection, it became clear that the existing staircases were too steep and did not meet Building Regulations. This realisation led to a necessary redesign of the stairs and sparked a more in-depth discussion about the overall layout of the house.
As the design phases progressed, it became evident that placing the living area on the first floor would result in a more efficient use of space. With this new configuration in mind, the ground floor was transformed into a cozy bedroom, while the living areas were resituated on the first floor. This clever adjustment allowed for an abundance of natural light to flood the living spaces, thanks to the addition of skylights and the vaulted ceiling provided an airy and open atmosphere.
In addition to the extensive redesign plans, it was discovered that the existing roof was in an alarming state of disrepair, necessitating a full-scale reconstruction. During construction, an existing fireplace and chimney were untouched and restored. This preservation not only breathed new life into the design, but also infused the space with a touch of character and charm, creating an ambiance that is truly captivating.

New project in Twickenham

Square One Architects have been appointed for the project of a conversion a small coach house to a residential home in the town center of Twickenham.

Our client, a small developer, looked for several firms of residential architects in Twickenham and chose Square One architects to carry out the project for this conversion.

The overall brief is simple; the client is looking to convert an existing coach house to a one-bedroom house organised on two levels.

The initial idea was to dedicate the ground floor level to kitchen and living space including a bathroom. In this configuration the first floor of the property would then be used as a bedroom with a Juliet balcony opening towards the small alleyway.

After an initial discussion, it was been decided to move the living area to the first floor due to the availability of natural daylight and better views.

The one double bedroom of the house will be located at ground floor level with direct access to a bathroom that partly used the space under the stairs.

Square One Architects’ design and careful lighting consideration will help to make the most out of a very limited amount of space!

Click here to see the project’s page and images.

A final image of the project