Coming soon: professional photographs of two new projects

Earlier this week, we had the opportunity to collaborate with our talented photographer to capture the essence of two of our latest completed projects. The session allowed us to showcase the intricate details and innovative designs that define our architectural vision.

The photos showcasing our latest project will be available for viewing in our dedicated project section shortly. Be sure to stay tuned so you don't miss out on this exciting update!

House extension in Surbiton

The existing property was Locally Listed (a Building of Townscape Merit) and featured several extensions to the rear, which included a kitchen extension, a conservatory, a utility area, and a guest WC. Due to these extensions, the layout of the ground floor at the back of the house felt somewhat disconnected. The client expressed concerns about the conservatory's extreme temperatures - too hot in the summer and too cold in winter. Throughout the project, we explored the idea of a side return extension to open up the space, creating a more expansive kitchen and dining area. Our focus was to maintain the current airy feel while enhancing natural light and ensuring adequate insulation. Additionally, the ground floor extension incorporated a new utility space, pantry, and guest WC in different areas. A key element of the project involved enlarging the existing patio to improve the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, removing the raised step between the paved area and the garden for a seamless connection.

House extension in Thames Ditton

This detached house in Thames Ditton originally featured a non-original double garage and a rear extension constructed around 20 years ago. Unsatisfied with the layout, the clients opted to reconstruct the garage and introduce a new side extension complete with a side access. The envisioned extension included a utility room overlooking the front of the house, additional kitchen and garden storage facing the rear, and a link to the existing guest WC refurbished as a wet room. The kitchen area was expanded towards an underutilized side patio, facilitating the transformation into an open-plan social hub encompassing a spacious dining zone adjacent to the new kitchen. The former pantry was relocated to the former utility area, enhancing the kitchen and dining space. A newly added covered porch at the rear established a seamless connection between the house and the garden.

New decking for a detached house in Thames Ditton, Surrey

We recently visited one of our latest project under construction in Thames Ditton which will also include a new decking area. This impressive outdoor living space is designed with style and clever engineering. Situated in the beautiful surroundings of Thames Ditton, the new deck will seamlessly blend with the peaceful environment. Our goal is for the homeowners to enjoy their own private outdoor space to relax and connect with nature.
This decking is made from high-quality sustainable materials and includes technologies for long-lasting durability. It is designed to last a long time and offers a perfect combination of style and strength.
Boasting a colour palette inspired by nature's own hues, the deck will merge into the architectural style of the house, adding a touch of timeless charm to the outdoor living space.
The deck will feature cosy spots for reading and relaxing, as well as spacious areas for hosting loved ones.

We are excited for the deck to be completed soon, which will enhance the main house extension. Everyone involved in this project is looking forward to it. We will be sharing many photos of this beautiful and functional renovation.

Site visit to our latest project in Thames Ditton, Surrey

We visited a project for a house extension in Thames Ditton on November 9th, 2023. It was an exciting visit as we monitored the progress of the construction, witnessing the extension taking shape before our eyes. The addition promises to offer not only valuable extra space but also breath taking views, truly enhancing the overall appeal of the house. However, amidst this progress, we encountered an unexpected challenge stemming from the soft clay soil on which the original house was built. Recognizing the need to ensure the structural integrity of the extension, we coordinated with the structural engineer and the contractor to conduct comprehensive soil testing. With these measurements the structural engineer was able to confirm that the soft clay soil would indeed withstand the demands imposed by the structure. Subsequently, with the approved design in hand, the contractor confidently resumed their work.

In the dynamic realm of architectural design and construction, collaboration stands as a linchpin for success. Particularly during the initial phases of a project, the partnership between the architect, structural engineer, and contractor emerges as a vital catalyst for seamless execution and enduring quality.
At the heart of this triumvirate lies an amalgamation of expertise, skills, and perspectives. The architect, with their visionary creativity and holistic approach, sets the design intent and shapes the project's aesthetic and functional aspects. Meanwhile, the structural engineer brings their technical prowess and analytical mind to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the proposed design. Rounding off the trio, the contractor harnesses practical knowledge and on-site proficiency to translate the design into tangible reality.

We will continue to give updates on this exciting project in the upcoming weeks.

Large rear extension in Thames Ditton, Surrey

The works for the project of a large rear extension in Thames Ditton are currently in progress, and the contractor has made significant strides. The next step involves setting out the new walls, which will serve as a crucial aspect of the extension.

Initially, the property already featured a conservatory at the rear, although it was in dire need of repair. Consequently, the client opted to replace the conservatory with a new and expanded ground floor rear extension, resulting in a wider footprint that would accommodate an exquisite new sitting area.

The proposed plans also include a spacious utility room, as well as an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, designed to foster a sense of togetherness and maximize functionality. In addition, a dedicated space for a new playroom will be incorporated into the side of the property, ensuring ample space for recreational activities.

The meticulous coordination of our work with the kitchen designers' proposals has been of paramount importance, guaranteeing a seamless integration of the kitchen into the overall design. Notably, the kitchen will feature a generous pantry area, a well-placed kitchen island, and an L-shaped layout with the sink positioned in alignment with the new window and skylight.

As of now, the project is underway, and its completion is expected by the end of 2023, promising a remarkable transformation of the property that will fulfil the client's vision.

Project in Thames Ditton under construction

We had the pleasure of conducting a site visit to one of our ongoing projects in Thames Ditton. This particular endeavour involves the comprehensive transformation of a first-floor flat and the ingenious conversion of the property's loft into a luxurious master bedroom. We cannot wait to share more images of this project with you in the near future!

The client initially approached Square One Architects in 2017 with a request to design a roof conversion and make internal alterations to their 1950s 2-bed semi-maisonette located in Thames Ditton. In order to create a more spacious and interconnected atmosphere, we devised a revised layout on the first floor by removing an existing partition wall, resulting in the creation of an open-plan kitchen/living/dining space. To connect the ground and first floor levels, a new stair was also proposed, which led to the loft space. The new stair reduced the usable area in one of the bedrooms, transforming it into a practical study area.
Recognizing the need for improved functionality, the project also involved enlarging the family bathroom. This was achieved by removing underused built-in cabinets, optimizing the space available.
Moving onwards to the roof level, we designed a truly remarkable addition - a spacious master bedroom with a shower room. To bring in ample natural light, skylights were incorporated, enhancing the ambiance of this unique area.
By carefully considering the client's requirements and incorporating innovative design solutions, Square One Architects successfully provided a roof conversion and internal alterations that not only improved the functionality of the space but also enhanced its overall aesthetics.

Our latest project in Thames Ditton

We visited one of our smallest built projects to date! A dark bedroom in a 1960s house in Thames Ditton was converted into a double height space with plenty of daylight coming from two skylights and a new window at the back. The main space will be used as a study while a bed platform will provide useful additional space for guests. More pictures to follow!

This project dates to 2016 when the client, a retired lady, approached us to carry out an alteration to her 1960’s terraced house in Thames Ditton.

The existing layout of the property was quite peculiar, and it comprised of two double bedrooms at first floor level and some space in the loft that was not being used.

The client initially wanted to raise the ceiling of one of the two bedrooms to create a vaulted space with skylights above to take advantage of additional daylight. Shortly after the preliminary stages, it became apparent that it would have been possible to also create a mezzanine level for a small home office and to form a window to the rear of the property that would provide additional daylight and cross ventilation.

The budget was relatively low, and the client wanted to retain the existing wooden floor of the property.

The presence of a mezzanine obviously meant having a new stair that would connect the existing first floor of the property to the new mezzanine level. From a design perspective we had to be very careful due to potential head height issues with the existing roof of the property that had to be re-insulated and re-supported structurally.

The existing A-frame structure also had to be replaced with new structural elements whose specifications were provided by our Engineer.

The alterations proposed where all internal and the property did not fall within a Conservation Area therefore planning was not required in this instance, however we applied for Building Control approval. We also provided advice in terms of party wall requirements and artificial lighting.

The project was delivered within budget and within the agreed time frame and the result was quite impressive. The original bedroom once extended felt much larger due to the added volume and the presence of the additional mezzanine space.