Let the Light In: Maximizing Natural Illumination with Skylights in Your Pitched Roof Extension

In the realm of home design, natural illumination is a powerful tool that can transform any space, creating an inviting atmosphere and enhancing the overall aesthetic. If you're planning a pitched roof extension, incorporating skylights is a surefire way to flood your space with beautiful, natural light.

Skylights have long been favored by architects and homeowners alike for their ability to brighten up dark corners and create a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. Whether you're aiming to create a cozy reading nook or a light-filled dining area, skylights offer a versatile solution to maximize daylight and create a sense of openness.

With the right placement and design, skylights can not only illuminate your space but also provide additional ventilation and stunning views of the sky above. From traditional to modern, the options are endless when it comes to skylight styles and finishes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your pitched roof extension.

Benefits of natural illumination in home design

When it comes to home design, natural illumination has a multitude of benefits that go beyond aesthetics. The use of skylights in a pitched roof extension can significantly enhance the overall atmosphere and livability of the space. By harnessing natural light, you can create a welcoming and uplifting environment that positively impacts your mood and well-being. Natural light has been proven to improve productivity, increase focus, and even regulate our sleep-wake cycles. Additionally, by relying more on natural light, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bills. Skylights are an eco-friendly solution that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while being conscious of your environmental impact.

Understanding different types of skylights for pitched roofs

When it comes to skylights for pitched roofs, there are several options to choose from. The most common types include fixed skylights, vented skylights, and tubular skylights. Fixed skylights are stationary and do not open, making them ideal for areas where ventilation is not a priority. Vented skylights, on the other hand, can be opened and closed to allow for air circulation and improved ventilation. These are especially useful in areas such as kitchens and bathrooms where moisture control is important. Lastly, tubular skylights are a compact option that uses reflective tubes to capture and distribute natural light throughout the space. They are particularly useful in rooms with limited ceiling space or where traditional skylights are not feasible. Each type of skylight has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision.

Factors to consider when choosing skylights for your pitched roof extension

Choosing the right skylights for your pitched roof extension requires careful consideration of various factors. One of the key considerations is the size and placement of the skylights. The size of the skylights should be proportional to the size of the room and the pitch of the roof. Oversized skylights may result in excessive heat gain or loss, while undersized ones may not provide sufficient light. The placement of the skylights is also crucial in maximizing natural illumination. Consider the orientation of your roof and the path of the sun throughout the day to determine the optimal placement for the skylights. Additionally, it's important to think about the design and aesthetics of the skylights. Choose a style and finish that complements the overall design of your pitched roof extension and enhances its visual appeal.

Installation process and considerations for skylights in pitched roof extensions

Installing skylights in a pitched roof extension requires careful planning and professional expertise. The first step is to consult with a qualified contractor or architect who specializes in skylight installations. It's important to ensure that the installation process is done correctly to prevent any leaks or damage to your roof. Proper insulation and flashing are essential to maintain the integrity of the roof and ensure the skylights are weatherproof. Additionally, consider the type of glazing for the skylights. Options include single-pane, double-pane, and even triple-pane glazing, each offering different levels of insulation and energy efficiency. The installation process may vary depending on the type of skylights chosen, so it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult with professionals throughout the process.

Tips for maximizing natural illumination with skylights in your pitched roof extension

To make the most of natural illumination in your pitched roof extension, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. First and foremost, consider the placement and size of the skylights. Optimal placement allows for the maximum amount of natural light to enter the space throughout the day. Additionally, consider using skylight covers or blinds to control the amount of light and heat entering the room. This allows you to adjust the lighting levels based on your preferences and the time of day. Another tip is to strategically place mirrors or reflective surfaces near the skylights to amplify the natural light and create a brighter and more spacious feel. Finally, don't forget to incorporate other elements of interior design that can enhance natural illumination, such as light-colored walls, reflective flooring, and strategically placed furniture to maximize the light's reach.

Maintenance and care for skylights in pitched roof extensions

Proper maintenance and care for your skylights are essential to ensure their longevity and performance. Regular cleaning is important to prevent dirt and debris from obstructing the light and compromising the clarity of the skylights. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to gently remove any dirt or residue. Additionally, inspect the skylights for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks, and address them promptly to prevent further issues. Keep an eye on the seals and flashing around the skylights to ensure they remain watertight and weatherproof. It's also a good idea to have your skylights professionally inspected and serviced on a regular basis to identify any potential issues early on and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Case studies of successful pitched roof extensions with skylights

To gain inspiration and see the transformative power of skylights in pitched roof extensions, let's take a look at a few case studies. One example is a cozy attic conversion that utilized skylights to turn a dark and cramped space into a bright and airy bedroom. By strategically placing skylights along the sloping roof, the room is now flooded with natural light, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. Another case study involves a kitchen extension that features a large, glass-roofed skylight. This design element not only floods the kitchen with daylight but also provides a stunning view of the sky above, creating a unique and captivating focal point. These case studies demonstrate the versatility and impact of skylights in transforming pitched roof extensions into beautifully illuminated spaces.

Cost considerations for skylights in pitched roof extensions

When considering skylights for your pitched roof extension, it's important to factor in the cost implications. The cost of skylights can vary depending on factors such as size, type, and design. Fixed skylights tend to be more affordable compared to vented or tubular skylights. Additionally, the cost of installation should be taken into account, including any necessary modifications to the roof structure and the expertise required for a proper installation. It's worth noting that while skylights may require an upfront investment, they can provide long-term energy savings and increase the value of your home. Consider your budget and priorities when making a decision, and consult with professionals to get accurate cost estimates for your specific project.

Conclusion: Transforming your pitched roof extension with skylights

Skylights have the power to transform a pitched roof extension into a bright and airy haven, maximizing natural illumination and creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. By harnessing the beauty of natural light, you can enhance the overall atmosphere and livability of your space while reducing your energy consumption. Understanding the different types of skylights, considering the factors that influence their selection, and following proper installation and maintenance practices are key to maximizing their benefits. Whether you're looking to create a tranquil bedroom or a vibrant living area, skylights offer a versatile solution that can elevate the aesthetics and functionality of your pitched roof extension. So, let the light in and embark on a journey of transforming your space into a beautifully illuminated sanctuary.

Site visit in Surbiton

We had the opportunity to visit one of our ongoing projects in Surbiton, which involves constructing a rear and side extension to a beautiful period detached house. This particular property, boasting 5 bedrooms, is an exquisite example of Victorian architecture and was worthy of receiving the local listing of Townscape Merit.

Before our intervention, the house had various disjointed extensions at the rear, including a kitchen extension, a conservatory, a utility area, and a guest WC. As a result of these additions, the layout of the ground floor felt rather incoherent, lacking a cohesive flow.

To rectify this, Square One Architects was brought on board to design a side return extension that would not only open up the plan but also create a more spacious kitchen and dining area. Our client expressed a desire for an airy and light-filled space, and thus, our proposals focused on maximizing natural daylight while ensuring appropriate insulation.

In addition to the expanded kitchen and dining area, our plans included a new utility space, a pantry, and a guest WC, which would enhance the functionality and convenience of the house. As part of the overall redesign, we also decided to remove the existing chimney breast located in the old dining area. This alteration significantly improved the layout of the ground floor.

To improve the connection between the internal and external spaces, we meticulously designed a flush transition, eliminating any steps between the existing paved area at the rear of the house and its garden. This seamless integration would enhance the accessibility and flow between indoor and outdoor living.

At present, the project is progressing exceptionally well, thanks to the expertise and dedication of the contractor. We are truly excited to witness the evolution of this remarkable transformation. Although the glazing has not been delivered yet, the outline of the glass roof on the side and the presence of large patio doors at the rear provide a glimpse of the extraordinary final outcome that awaits.

Extension in East Molesey, Surrey

Today, we had the opportunity to visit an incredibly promising project that is currently under construction. The original 5-bedroom detached house featured a ground floor extension which was constructed approximately 20 years ago and a garage that unfortunately did not align with the specific requirements of our clients.

As part of this project, we planned to rebuild the existing garage and rear extension, with the goal of creating a brand-new side and rear extension complete with side access. The proposed side extension will encompass a generously sized utility room that will face the main road, along with a new pantry and garden storage area that will overlook the rear of the property. The utility room at the front will be connected to an existing guest WC, which will undergo a transformation into a luxurious wet room.

The expansive rear extension will not only be wider, but it will also utilize an underutilized side patio. This large extension will be comprised of a grand kitchen, dining, and living area, accompanied by a cozy snug and a convenient pantry. The new open plan layout will allow for a seamless flow between the modern kitchen and the spacious dining area, creating an inviting social space.

We are thrilled to unveil our largest skylight design to date. This remarkable skylight, spanning over a staggering 5 meters, promises to flood the entire space with an abundance of natural light.

To enhance the connection between the interior and the exterior, we have thoughtfully designed a covered porch at the rear of the property.

The contractor has made exceptional progress thus far. Stay tuned for forthcoming images that will document the remarkable transformation in vivid detail!

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

House extension in Twickenham

Check out the pictures of our latest project for a house extension.

This was a very interesting project that we carried out between 2018 and 2019 for a family of three with a small child. The project was in Twickenham and it included a first-floor extension and internal alterations to a peculiar Edwardian house dating from the 18th century.

The existing house included some interesting features; however, it had also been altered and extended in several moments in time and its overall feeling was not very cohesive from a design perspective.

The client had two requests: the first one was to add a bedroom and the second one was for a design that would create a sense of cohesion throughout the property.

The house was located just outside the Twickenham Green Conservation Area and this was quite a lucky coincidence, because obviously being within a conservation area means that you must take on board the conservation officers’ opinion.

From a planning perspective the project presented its own difficulties. With the client we agreed to submit a design for a first-floor extension to the rear. This type of extensions is always quite challenging planning-wise because of the potential to block other properties’ windows and to give a sense of enclosure to the neighbors, especially in a terraced house type of scenario.

The other challenge was the presence of a property nearby that was owned by a developer who had submitted a planning application proposing several alterations that would have an impact on our clients’ property, once implemented. In other words, everything we proposed had to consider the ongoing development next door.

At the very beginning of the project we considered several options. The first one was a very simple loft extension and the second one was a first-floor rear extension. We analysed all these options with the client and ultimately the decision ended up being made on both a design and a financial basis. The first-floor extension proved to be more efficient from both a spatial and especially a financial point of view. It also allowed to level up the ceiling of the property creating a more cohesive internal look.

The result is a project that that optimized the existing layout of the house, added a much needed extra bedroom, eliminated all internal steps and created consistent ceiling levels throughout the whole property.

A-frame extension in Hampton

Our project for an A-frame rear extension in Hampton has been completed and is now live. You can have a look at the latest photos by clicking here.

This project dates back from 2016 when our client, a young family of four with two children, got in touch with Square One Architects to design a single storey rear extension for their house, a 1930s semi-detached 2-bedroom property in Hampton.

The existing house was typical and featured a non-original conservatory that used to be too hot in the summer and too cold in winter. The rest of the ground floor was not very spacious and quite dark.

The client’s brief included the demolition of the existing conservatory and creation of a new extension with an open plan solution. The new open plan would include a generous kitchen, dining area and living space.

The client expressed an interest for a very specific type of structure that featured an “A-frame” , including a gable window and a set of bi-fold doors. This is not an unusual configuration; however, it presents its own challenges when built as an extension to an existing period building. The biggest challenge for this project was in fact the integration of the structural solution (designed by our structural engineer) and the existing structure.

The other challenge was planning. In first instance the council deemed the proposed full-width extension to be too large so we had to go through a negotiation process that led to the final solution which includes the rear extension and flat roofed side extension.

Square One architects managed to overcome these difficulties and delivered the project that our client wanted. The result is an incredibly spacious extension that benefits from a generous amount of daylight. As usual daylight was predicted using daylight simulation methods that come from our Director’s background in lighting design.

Project schedule #6 Rear Extension in Hampton Hill

Project schedule

Year: 2016-2017

Location: Hampton Hill, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames

RIBA Design Stages: 0-5

Architect:

Square One Architects

Structural Engineer:

Wallace Wheating

Building Control:

Building Control Approval

This project for a rear extension in Hampton Hill dates to 2016.

The clients, a retired couple, asked us to extend their property to the back. The existing house was a typical 1930’s semi-detached dwelling with a large garden to the rear. The clients’ initial brief was for a straightforward three meters rear extension with some internal alterations that would allow them to have an open plan layout, however they had an additional request: to retain a sunny corner in their outdoor patio. This led to the decision to design a three meters rear extension built under Permitted Development that would not use the full width of the rear garden in order to retain the sunny corner that our clients loved so much.

In order to highlight this design intention, we proposed to have an L-shaped window that would provide views to the rear garden and to the side patio at the same time. A set of large French Doors was then designed to allow access to the site patio. The client was also very keen to use triple glazed Swedish windows and chose West Coast Windows as their supplier.

It was agreed with the client to have a flat roof extension reminiscent of the 1930’s minimalist approach that would create a nice contrast with the existing style of the house. In order to highlight this minimalist approach, we concealed all the rainwater pipes within the new walls.

The same logic informed the materials inside the extension where a herringbone wood floor was chosen for both the existing and the new section.

As we always do, we simulated the amount of daylight that the extension would receive depending on the moment of the year to guarantee that the new new space would be very bright at any moment of the year without any overheating.

The result is an extension that enhances the existing building and is very cohesive in terms of interior design with the rest of the property. In this circumstance we worked with an interior designer who happened to be our clients’ daughter in terms of internal materials and color palette. It was a very successful project that pleased all the parties involved.

Before and after images

Rear elevation

Dining and sitting area

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

Rear extension in Hampton under construction

We recently visited the construction site of our project for a rear extension to a large detached house in Hampton and we were impressed by the quality of the open space and the amount of daylight received internally. The project is well underway, and we will shortly share the final pictures.

We recently went on site to see the progress for this large rear extension to a 1930s detached house in Hampton.

The existing house featured a non-original conservatory to the rear that did not address the client’s requirements. Our initial brief included the construction of a six meters rear extension that would include the kitchen, dining and sitting area. The project would also include a utility room a coat storage and a small guest WC.

The client had several other requirements, in particular the kitchen needed to have its own character and the overall architecture of the extension would have to reflect any changes in the internal layout. Another requirement was for a flush threshold between the inside and the outside in order to have a seamless transition between the new indoor space and the rear garden.

In order to provide a specific character to the kitchen it was agreed with the client to split the rear extension into two sections with the first one characterized by flat roof and the second one, above the kitchen, characterized by a pitched roof. This created an interesting rear elevation that reflected the changes in the internal layout as per our client’s request.

The project obtained planning approval in early 2019 and after that we worked with the client in order to achieve a fully detailed tender package that would be priced by several contractors. The winning contractor started works in late 2019 and the project is now almost completed.

Our site and confirmed that the strategy of having two separate roof construction types created an impressive space that feel bright and spacious, with its own strong character and with incredible views on the beautiful rear garden of the property.

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.

Daylight and luminance analysis for an extension in Kingston

We regularly use analysis tools to predict the amount of daylight received in a space as a function of the openings size, location and moment of the year. In this view we are showing the predicted Luminance on the 21st of March at 12.00 for our new ground floor extension in Kingston.

Daylight analysis tools offer to foresee the exact amount of daylight received by a determined space in several moments of the year. These tools are always very helpful in general, but they play a crucial role in our designs. By scrolling through our project images it is easy to see that daylight intake is a common thread, we are convinced that daylight within a household plays an huge factor in the health and well being of its inhabitants and we feel a duty as Architect to try and optimize this factor in all our projects.

In the case of this project for a rear extension in Kingston, we analysed the daylight intake with a configuration of a sliding door at the right, a generous window at the left and three skylights placed in the middle of the rear extension’s ceiling. With this type of diagram, it is very easy to see that the daylight will be very evenly distributed throughout the floor plan without being overwhelming (refer to the area in green).

Lighting design is a complex discipline, but we try to explain these metrics and parameters to the clients in a very straightforward way so they can understand the rational behind the dimension of the openings in their extensions.

These tools have become an essential part of our work at any stages of the design, especially at preliminary stages prior to submitting a planning application. We look forward to seeing this project finished and show this point with the final pictures.

Work in progress: House extension in Kingston

First image of our new project for a rear extension in Kingston

Square One Architects have been appointed to redesign the rear extension of a large XIX century semi-detached house in Kingston.

The property in question was extended in 2003 by the previous owners however the clients were not happy with the overall design.

Their main complaint regarded the amount of daylight that they received within the ground floor of the property and the connection between the extension and the rest of the house. In fact, the existing extension was separated from the original rear of the property by a thick wall with two small openings causing the original rooms facing the back garden to be extremely dark.

This is very typical situation. Extending traditional properties without any consideration given to daylight intake always carries the potential risk of creating spaces that feel dark and separated.

The clients’ brief included the removal of the non-original extension and replacement with a new one that would allow a generous amount of daylight throughout the ground floor of the property. They also wanted to carry out some internal alterations that would allow to have a seamless connection between the existing spaces and the new extended section of the house.

The project also included moving the existing kitchen to the new open plan area, using the original kitchen space as a playroom.

As a practice we felt that we were the perfect match for this type of project given our expertise in residential design with a focus on the south west of London and our specialist expertise in lighting design.

The layout shown in the drawing above exemplifies our ideas for this project where the internal space formed by the existing house and the new extension feel like one.

A set of sliding doors, two large roof lights and a spectacular l-shaped window to the opposite corner will allow for daylight to be distributed throughout the floor plan.

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.

Loft extension in Twickenham

We are currently working on an interesting project for a rather unusual loft extension. Instead of using their roof as a bedroom, the clients want to form a new sitting area with a set of large doors at the back and skylights for star gazing

The project for this loft extension to a 1930’s semi-detached house in Twickenham started in March 2019.

The clients’ brief was rather unusual in the sense that they wanted to use the second floor of their extended property as a living space for their family rather than as a bedroom as it is often the case in these types of projects.

The client also requested a large skylight and doors facing the rear of the house for stargazing with their telescope.

Following an initial discussion and consultation, the client chose an option that involved converting a small bedroom at first floor level into a full height study area that also serves as a hallway for the new stair connecting first and second floor. This is a solution that we have used in other projects. The main advantage of this option is that only one door at first floor level is required, leaving the first-floor study/hallway and the second floor completely free from any partition.

At the top of this full height space it was decided to install two large skylights facing the front of the property. The orientation of the house, with its front facing the north, will allow to gain much daylight without any major risk of overheating.

The loft extension is facing south and in this part of the house it was agreed to install external doors with a juliet balcony and a large openable flat roof skylight.

Planning approval was obtained in early 2020 and we are now working on the Detail Design for this interesting and unique project.

We look forward to seeing this project build!

Rear extension in Hampton

We are excited to share two short videos of our newest project—an amazing addition to the back of a house in Hampton. More pictures will be coming soon!

The client initially engaged our services back in 2018, seeking assistance with a rear extension and internal alterations for their four-bedroom terraced house in Hampton. While the upper levels of the property had undergone renovations, it was evident that the ground floor did not uphold the same standards. Displeased with the overall layout, the client felt that the space was not maximized to its full potential. In addition, the house contained a non-original rear extension from the 1980's. This extension, lacking in quality and failing to fully utilize the plot's width, raised concerns. As a result, we developed a plan to design a new rear extension, which would replace the outdated one and seamlessly integrate a new open space comprising a kitchen, dining area, and small seating space. The spacious layout incorporates a stylish kitchen island and a generous 6-seater table. Furthermore, to enhance functionality, we incorporated a small guest WC, utility space, and under stair storage on the ground floor. Additionally, to restore the original charm, we reinstated the front reception room by removing a previously blocked-off partition wall. The back of the property features beautiful and well-crafted doors and windows with clean lines, supplied by Fabco Sanctuary. These architectural elements add a touch of modern style and timeless beauty to the overall design, enhancing both the look and functionality of the property.

Our latest project in Teddington

You can take a look at our most recent project showcasing a side and rear extension in Teddington by clicking here. This extension not only enhances the existing home but also creates additional functional space for the homeowners.

The client initially approached Square One Architects in 2017 with a vision of expanding their 3-bed semi-detached house in Teddington. With a desire for both a side and rear extension, it was clear from the outset that removing an underutilized and dilapidated garage would be necessary. By eliminating this underused structure, an opportunity arose to create a generous 6-meter deep extension to the rear. Additionally, the ground floor was extended by approximately 2 meters to the side to incorporate a convenient utility room, study and guest WC. Retaining direct access to the rear garden was made possible by a narrow passageway created on the side of the property.
While the client had initially expressed an interest in extending the loft as well as the ground floor, a deliberate decision was made after careful consideration to postpone this segment of the project. However, in 2021, Square One Architects successfully completed the loft extension, bringing a project that initially commenced four years ago to its fulfilling culmination.

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.

Our latest project

Check out here our latest project in Hampton! We are excited to share our new project, which showcases our innovative design and expertise. This project was carefully designed for our own office, combining functionality and aesthetics. Every detail was thoughtfully created to create a balanced and inspiring work environment. Explore the intricate beauty of our architecture and be amazed by the blend of modern and timeless design.

As the client and architect, the experience is exciting. We have the freedom to envision the ideal space and bring it to life. Being involved in every step of the design process allows for easy communication and a personal connection to the project. It's thrilling to see ideas come to life, as we have a unique perspective. We can be creative and make informed decisions. Being both the client and architect is a privilege and adventure filled with excitement and possibilities.

Our new office space is designed to inspire creativity and collaboration, while also providing a welcoming environment for meetings with our clients. The modern layout creates a professional atmosphere for productive conversations and brainstorming. We believe that this new office will improve our team's productivity and create a better experience for our clients as we work together on their exciting design projects.

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.

Our latest project for an annexe in Hampton

Check our latest project for a maisonette in Hampton here

Our latest project for a side extension to a detached bungalow in Hampton has been completed.

We visited the site recently and we were very impressed by the result that confirmed our decisions and predictions made during the design stage were essentially correct.

The client approached Square One Architects in 2016 to carry out a project to replace an existing side annexe (that at the time was used as a storage) with a new solid construction that would include a bedroom, a kitchen, a bathroom and a living area for our client’s daughter.

The project`s brief was very intriguing, but it became apparent that one of the challenges would be planning, given the peculiar position of the house at the end of the cul-de-sac. In order to maximise the built surfaces and the volume we had to find an agreement with the Council.

Following a preliminary design stage, it was agreed to propose an extension that would fully integrate with the existing gable roof of the bungalow and the council welcomed this design.

This solution allowed to create a side extension characterized by a double height space that took advantage of the existing loft of the house to form a new bedroom. The ground floor of the maisonette was converted to a kitchen and bathroom and the new annexe was extended to the back with a new gable roof to form a new living area.

Several skylights on both the pitched section of the roof and the flat one provided a spectacular amount of daylight across the double height space and the rear extension.

Following construction, the client’s daughter gave us a very significant feedback. She mentioned that she used to have sleeping problems that had ended after she moved to her new accommodation. Her interpretation of this improvement of her condition was that the large amount of daylight received within the new section of the house during the day helped her circadian rhythm.

Unfortunately, we cannot test this theory however we are inclined to believe she is correct. Several studies link the amount of daylight received during the day to improvements to the circadian rhythm (or day and night cycles).

We think this project represents another proof of the importance of daylight in people's well-being and we are very proud of the result.