Garden office construction updates

Update No.1 (01/07/2021)

Construction of our new modern studio has officially started, marking an exciting achievement for Square One Architects. With careful planning and attention to detail, our team has begun this project, ensuring that every part of the studio aligns with our vision for creativity and innovation. As the foundation is laid and the structure takes form, we eagerly look forward to the day when our new studio opens, creating a space designed to encourage imagination and teamwork among our talented team. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this amazing journey to redefine how we work and inspire others through our architectural projects.

Update No.2 (13/04/2017)

Lengthen:
The construction progress on the project is moving steadily ahead. The foundations, floors underlay, and damp proof membrane (DPM) have all been successfully installed, providing a solid base for the building. Today marks an exciting milestone as the timber structure is being erected, bringing the architectural vision to life. As the team carefully assembles each piece, we eagerly anticipate witnessing the form and shape of the building taking shape.

Update 3 (16/04/2017)

Timber structure on its way, and the progress is notable. The team has been tirelessly working despite the unrelenting weather conditions. Rain or shine, they have managed to make steady advancements. The clear skies have been a blessing, allowing the construction to proceed smoothly and swiftly. With each passing day, the framework of the timber structure takes shape, and the building starts to reveal its architectural design.

Update No.4 (20/04/2017)

The construction crew has successfully finished the main structure of the building, marking a significant milestone in the project. With the structure completed, the next crucial step is to install the external doors and skylights. These elements will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the building but also play a practical role in providing natural light and ventilation. The team is excited to move forward with this phase and eagerly awaits the arrival of the doors and skylights template. By seamlessly integrating these features, we aim to create a functional and visually stunning space.

Update No.5 (12/06/2017)

The office's siberian larch cladding supplied by Russwood will be installed this coming week and it will provide durable and sustainable weather protection to the outside wall. More pictures to come!

We spent a lot of time thinking about the ideal type of timber to be used for the cladding of our garden office in Hampton.

After considering several types of species, including red cedar, we decided to opt for Siberian larch.

This was due to the characteristic of this type of wood whose sap content makes it ideal for external purposes.

The first thing we took into consideration was the colour of the wood in two scenarios. Wood naturally tends to become grey with time and so we had to consider both the wood colour once delivered (especially in order to take fantastic final pictures of the project) and the colour of the wood with a grey tone after a few years.

One of the challenges in using external wood cladding for a building project is that the rate of discoloration can be very different depending on the orientation of the facade. In the case of our project one of the side walls was facing full south and therefore it was reasonable to believe that this facade of the office would become grey quicker and possibly have a different tone from the others for the rest of its days.

In order to avoid this effect, we consulted the supplier who suggested us to use a Swedish product that tends to extract the pigments from the wood accelerating the discoloration process and making it very consistent on all the facades.

This product also acts as a protection, it is simply applied with a paintbrush, but it is also possible to get the planks with the product pre-applied in a factory setting.

The result was extremely good. Our office external colour was very consistent on all the four elevations and it quickly took a beautiful grey tone that gave it a lot of character.

Update 6 (05/10/2017)

We are thrilled to present the first image of our highly anticipated new sustainable, timber-clad office in Hampton. This stunning structure perfectly exemplifies our commitment to environmentally conscious design and showcases the elegance and warmth that timber brings to architecture. Stay tuned for more captivating pictures.

Flat in Primrose Hill

Square One Architects (SOA) have been appointed to conduct an extensive and detail-oriented feasibility study for the development of two luxurious flats in the serene and highly sought-after Primrose Hill neighbourhood. SOA will carefully analyse various aspects such as the local planning regulations, site conditions, and potential design options, all with the aim of providing our clients with comprehensive recommendations for the successful realization of their vision.

The client approached us with an exciting proposition to transform the roof space of one of their flats in Camden. Neighbouring developments served as inspirations and showcased the potential to utilize rooftops creatively, making the project even more promising.

On this occasion, Square One Architects will produce a comprehensive feasibility study proposal to include a new roof extension, aimed at transforming the existing structure into a new flat. Our team will explore potential design options, and consider the viability of the project from both an architectural and planning perspective. The proposed roof extension not only adds significant square footage to the property but also presents an exciting opportunity to optimize the use of space, enhance natural light, and create a modern living environment for future residents.

Following the preparation of a detailed sketch design, our next step will involve carefully assessing the feasibility of the roof extension project. To proceed, we intend to initiate a meaningful conversation with the Camden Council, utilizing their pre-planning application services. This proactive approach will allow us to gather valuable insights and guidance, ensuring that our design aligns effectively with the local regulations and requirements set forth by the council. By engaging in these discussions and leveraging the expertise of the Camden Council, we aim to streamline the approval process and create an innovative and compliant roof extension design for our client.

Garden Office in Hampton

We are thrilled to share the first glimpses of our latest project - a stunning garden office located in the picturesque town of Hampton. As we eagerly prepare for construction to commence in the near future, we couldn't resist giving you a sneak peek into the captivating project. Stay tuned for more information!

At Square One Architects, we are proud of our creative approach to design and our dedication to surpassing our clients' expectations. With the help of advanced technology like 3D modelling and realistic rendering, we can offer our clients an unmatched preview of their projects.
Our team of talented architects and designers use state-of-the-art 3D modelling software to create highly detailed virtual versions of our clients' dream spaces. This way, we can display every intricate detail, from the architectural elements to the interior finishes, with a level of realism that has never been seen before.
But it doesn't stop there. We believe that successful design is about being able to envision yourself within the space. That's why our realistic rendering goes beyond just showing what it looks like. We consider lighting, textures, and even the smallest details to create immersive and lifelike environments.
By utilizing 3D modeling and realistic rendering, our clients can confidently start their projects with a clear understanding of how the final result will look. This helps with decision-making and ensures that our designs perfectly match our clients' vision.

Side extension in Hampton

First images of the construction site of a double height side extension project to an existing bungalow in Hampton have just been revealed. This exciting addition to the property will not only enhance its overall appearance but also provide much-needed space for the homeowners. The construction site showcases the initial stages of this ambitious project, with foundation works now underway. As the project moves forward, focusing on every small detail and skilled workmanship will guarantee a smooth blend of the extension with the current building, combining style and practicality.
As construction continues, we are excited to see the electrical and plumbing systems integrated, along with the internal finishes. Our architects have carefully chosen with the clients high-quality materials, beautiful colours, and textures to create a unique atmosphere. Every aspect, from the floors to the walls and fixtures, are designed to be functional. We are committed to providing an exceptional experience with this project.
At Square One Architects, we find joy in seeing our designs become reality, and we welcome our clients to be a part of this amazing experience. There is an undeniable thrill in seeing the blueprint on paper slowly transform into a tangible structure before your very eyes.

Stay tuned for more updates!

Rays of Sunshine

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

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.

Hampton Hill extension: windows installed!

Following our previous post, we visited the site again to see the progress on the project. We were pleased to witness the construction proceeding smoothly, with every step meticulously executed. One notable development was the arrival and installation of the glazing, which added an elegant touch to the structure. The chosen glazing not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also brought in an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere within the building. We are excited to observe the project taking shape and eagerly anticipate the next milestones on this remarkable journey.

The glazing package includes triple glazed Swedish windows by West Coast and a skylight by The Rooflight Company. These high-quality windows and skylight not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structure but also provide excellent insulation, allowing for a more energy-efficient and comfortable living or working environment. By choosing products from reputable companies like West Coast and The Rooflight Company, we ensured that our clients received the best possible features for their space.

The project is now ready for the new floor, internal skimming, and external rendering. With all these crucial elements coming together, we are eagerly looking forward to the next site visit. It promises to be an exciting moment, as we expect the project to showcase a remarkable transformation. We are excited to see the project transform into a unique form, showcasing our commitment to accurate and exceptional architecture.

Rear extension in Twickenham

First image of our new project for the rear extension of a semi-detached single family house in Twickenham!

The rendering above shows our initial proposal for our 2016 project of a rear extension to a terraced house in Twickenham. The property in question was semi-detached and featured a non-original, very narrow and poor-quality built rear extension that used to house the kitchen and did not take advantage of the full width of the plot.

The client’s wish was to form a new open plan kitchen and living area opening towards the rear garden with the kitchen in the middle of the extended house.

The position of the kitchen in relation to rear extension is an important element and it comes down to individual preference. In some cases extensions are wide enough to house both kitchen and dining or living area to the rear like in the case of our house extension in Teddington and many other examples on our project page, however in some cases the existing house is just too narrow and just one between kitchen and dining area can be housed a the rear.

Some families tend to use the kitchen as a very social space, in which case it may make sense to place it towards the rear with the best views of the garden, access to daylight and connection with the patio.

Some others see the kitchen as a less social space and prefer to place a dining area or living space at the rear. This is something worth thinking long and hard before taking a final decision.

In this case the client decided to place the kitchen in the central section of the property. In this configuration it is very important to design the kitchen as a feature and keep it very tidy since you will always move across the kitchen to go from the front of the house to the rear. This is one of the reasons why the client asked us to design the kitchen from scratch in order to ensure that the design quality was consistent throughout the whole ground floor of the property.

We have to give credit to the clients for their commitment to good design. We enjoyed the overall design process and were very pleased with the final result..

You can see the final images of this project here.

Hampton Hill extension well under construction

We visited the construction site in Hampton Hill to see the impressive progress of this beautiful rear extension. As we walked through, we confirmed the size and proportions of the new addition were just right. The standout feature was the stunning L-shaped opening for a new window, which provided an amazing view of the surrounding landscape. The elegant opening for the new French doors also opened up to a charming outdoor area. The room was filled with natural light thanks to the large skylight. Every aspect of this extension showed sophistication and careful design, leaving us very impressed with the craftsmanship of the contractor.

The next crucial step in the construction process will involve the meticulous installation of the glazing components. These additions will include a breath-taking array of picture windows, elegant French doors, and expansive skylights. Once these glazed elements are in place, they will flood the property with an abundance of natural daylight throughout the year. Not only will this enhance the overall ambiance of the interior spaces, but it will also establish a harmonious connection between the indoor and outdoor areas.

We'll give you another update in a few days. The entire team is working hard to see this project built. We promise to keep you informed at every step!

Twickenham mews project starts on site

We are happy to announce that the refurbishment and conversion project of a lovely mews house in Twickenham has begun! The contractor has already started working on the new roof structure. This specially designed structure will not only make the property look more modern and stylish, but will also provide functional benefits. It will feature four beautiful skylights, strategically placed to bring in plenty of natural light to the first floor living area. We look forward to sharing more updates as we continue to transform this building.

The conversion of this existing coach house to a one bedroom house will involve two levels, allowing for an efficient use of space. On the ground floor, there will be a cosy bedroom and a modern bathroom, ensuring the utmost comfort for its residents. To optimize the ceiling height and create an open and airy atmosphere, the existing floor level will be lowered. Furthermore, we have taken into account the importance of safety and compliance, as the previous steep stair did not meet Building Regulations. In our innovative redesign, we have carefully relocated and expertly designed a new stair that seamlessly connects the ground and first floor, promoting both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
In preserving the character of the space, the existing fireplace and chimney breast will be meticulously maintained and refurbished, adding a touch of warmth and charm to the living area. Speaking of the living area, it will be strategically situated on the first floor to take full advantage of the picturesque views that surround the coach house. Moreover, the incorporation of four new skylights ensures an abundance of natural daylight throughout the day, enhancing the overall ambiance and creating a serene and inviting living environment for its occupants. With these thoughtful enhancements, this renovated coach house will effortlessly provide an intimate and modern living experience within a compact yet intelligently designed space.

Hampton Hill extension: construction starts!

We have begun building an extension at a lovely house in Hampton Hill. The project includes renovating and improving the ground floor to make the house more comfortable and functional. We'll share exciting photos of the transformation soon!

The client approached us in 2016 with a specific vision in mind - a ground floor extension project to their semi-detached 3-bedroom property in the neighbourhood of Hampton Hill. With their main focus on enhancing the heart of their home, they expressed a desire for seamless connectivity between the kitchen and dining room, creating an open plan space that would effortlessly overlook their garden. To bring their dream to life, we proposed a complete overhaul of the existing kitchen, replacing it with a modern, functional design that would not only cater to their culinary needs but also serve as a focal point for social gatherings. In addition, the client sought to revamp the ground floor guest WC and garage, envisioning a transformation that would result in an additional utility area or pantry - a space designed to streamline daily household tasks.

The contractor has started demolishing and digging at the site. We're excited to see the progress of our project. Every step brings us closer to our architectural vision. We're closely monitoring every detail to make sure everything is done perfectly. The transformation ahead will be amazing!

Side extension in Hampton

We are happy to share the first picture of our new project for the side extension of a lovely semi-detached house in Hampton village. This extension has been carefully designed to match the existing architecture and add modern features. Our team is excited to bring this vision to reality, creating a space that fits in with the surroundings and makes the property more attractive. Keep an eye out for more updates on this exciting project!

The client first approached us in 2015 with a request to make some much-needed alterations to their semi-detached house. One of the main issues they faced was a poorly built extension, which they wanted to upgrade to create a new and improved en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe for their master bedroom. In addition to the extension, the project also involved a complete redesign of the rear garden. This redesign included the installation of elegant York paving stones in front of the extension, providing a visually appealing and functional outdoor space. As part of the garden overhaul, the removal of an existing greenhouse was also planned. The end result would be a more usable and attractive garden that will significantly enhance the overall aesthetic of the property.                                        

Grand Designs Live

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

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

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

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.

ANNEXE in Hampton

We are excited to show you the first image of our new project: an annexe to a house in Hampton. This project demonstrates our commitment to creating spaces that flow well with the existing structure while meeting our clients' needs and desires. Stay tuned for more updates on this project as we work to create a masterpiece that will change how residents enjoy their home.

The client contacted Square One Architects back in 2016 with their vision of expanding their detached house. Their aim was to replace an antiquated garage structure with a brand new, modern annexe that would function as a standalone living space for their daughter. The proposed annexe would boast a self-contained flat, complete with a compact yet fully functional bathroom and kitchenette. Additionally, a distinctive mezzanine bed area would be incorporated to optimize space utilization. Of utmost importance to the client was ensuring that the annexe would be easily accessible from both the existing house and the front driveway, facilitating seamless entry and exit points.

In order to optimize the natural lighting in the newly designed space, our team took great care in strategically positioning multiple skylights. Specifically, we dedicated our attention to ensuring an even distribution of daylight throughout the area. To achieve this, we designed two skylights within the pitched roof section of the annexe, complemented by an additional two skylights integrated into the flat roof where the new structure seamlessly meets the existing roof. By carefully implementing this design approach, we will enhance the overall atmosphere and ambiance of the space while prioritizing the utilization of natural light sources.

We are excited to announce that we have reached an important milestone in our project journey. As we transition to the next phase of detailed design, our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life. Our architects and designers are working to further refine the project, paying close attention to every detail. In the coming weeks, we will be sharing more images Stay tuned for these exciting updates as we continue to progress towards the realization this very special space.

Grand Designs Live show

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First floor side extension in Hampton

We're happy to announce that the tender package for a side extension of a house in Hampton has been completed by our team at Square One Architects. We've prepared a detailed package that includes all the necessary specifications and documents for the construction process. We can't wait to see the transformation this extension will bring to the house, both in terms of how it works and how it looks. Our dedicated team is excited to oversee and guide the construction to make sure it meets our client's vision and our high standards.

In 2015, the client came to Square One Architects with a plan to improve their first-floor bathroom. They were not happy with the current layout, which had been hastily added onto an existing garage. They wanted a more practical and attractive space, so they asked for our expertise. Our solution involves tearing down the side extension and building a new one. This new addition would include a luxury dressing room with built-in closets, as well as a well-planned bathroom. But the client's vision extended beyond the house itself. They also asked us to improve their backyard, making it more usable. Our plans include adding new paving stones to the patio behind the house, creating a modern outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. The client also want to explore the possibility of removing the existing greenhouse, to free up more space in the garden. The final goal is to create a beautiful and functional home, both inside and outside.

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.

Claremont House, Esher

Another sketch that dates to 2015 of Claremont House in Esher, Surrey.

I was fascinated by this building due to its relevance in architectural history and the illustrious figures that contributed to its design. It is also another example of architecture that is very familiar with my northern Italian roots, given the obvious Palladian style of the house.

The history of Claremont House in Esher

The mansion dates to the 18th century and it is a fine example of Palladian architecture. The building was designed by Lancelot “Capability” Brown with the help of his future son-in-law Henry Holland, since Brown saw himself more of a landscape designer then an architect. A young John Soane also worked as a draughtsman in Harry Holland office at the time. The client commissioned the project is 1769.

Aside from the obvious influence of Andrea Palladio, the interiors of Claremont House have been inspired by the work of Robert Adam.

The construction of the property was completed in 1774 the same year when the owner and client Lord Clive died aged fourty-nine.

Claremont House is obviously one of the highlights of Surrey architecture and it's worth the visit. Today the property is owned by the national trust and it is a Grade 1 Listed Building.

Sir John Soane's Museum

A sketch from a recent visit to the Soane Museum. The handkerchief vault really feels like it is floating in light!

Sir John Soane’s museum is an unusual and incredibly interesting museum for anybody who is into neo-classical architecture. The museum is in Holborn, Central London and it is easily accessible by public transportations. Built in 1837, the building hasn’t essentially changed since its construction due to an Act of Parliament that stated the building should be maintained in its current condition, ironically to protect the building from Soane’s old son with whom the architect had has a long time feud.

Soane’s himself treated the building as an architectural laboratory where he tested his theories. One of the peculiarities of this building is that most of its natural daylight is drawn from the top, making it an absolute must for anyone who interested in daylight.

One of the most interesting aspects of daylight coming from the top (or technically speaking the “zenith”) is that it is very intense during overcast days. Anybody living in Britain knows that skies are usually very cloudy, and skylights tend to shine with this condition.

I spent some time in the museum on my own during my lighting studies at the UCL and I sketched the Breakfast Room whose most prominent feature is the famous “handkerchief vault”.

Soane’s canopy dome meant to inspire the feeling of a weightless ceiling, like an inflated handkerchief that seems to be floating over the room. The effect in real life is very dramatic.

The dome is shallow and develops from a squared base, a typical theme in Soane’s architecture.

The same design was later incorporated in other iconic designs such as Soane’s own tomb and the traditional red telephone box.

A virtual tour of the museum can be taken here.