NEW PROJECT IN BARNES NOW LIVE ON THE WEBSITE

Our project in Barnes Green Conservation area was recently completed and is now live on our website project list…

A rear extension, loft extension with 2 new dormers and internal alterations throughout have transformed our client’s home and we would love for you to take a look; Click here for more information and completion photos. Let us know what you think!

The client originally approached Square One Architects back in 2017 with an exciting project in mind - an extension to their 2-bed terraced house in the beautiful neighbourhood of Barnes, which happened to be located within a Conservation Area. As Architects, we understood the importance of preserving the existing while introducing new elements that would enhance the property in a manner that was in keeping with the existing historic environment.
One of the requests from the client was the design of a new lobby on the ground floor. This lobby served a dual purpose, not only creating a more discreet entrance to the house but also providing a protective measure for the staircase in case of fire. Additionally, we extended the existing kitchen at the rear of the property, utilizing a clever corner sliding door system to flood the ground floor area with natural daylight. To seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, we raised the patio to achieve a flush threshold.
Our scope of work extended beyond these key features. We also installed a new guest WC on the ground floor, cleverly utilizing the space under the staircase. Furthermore, we removed an existing chimney breast on both the ground and first floor to make way for the new design.
In terms of adding more space, we introduced new conservation rooflights and dormers that harmonized with the existing windows of the house. This enabled us to create a much-needed third bedroom at roof level. Additionally, we rearranged the existing staircase to ensure maximum head height on the second-floor landing and lowered the first-floor ceiling to optimize head height at the second-floor level.
At Square One Architects, we pride ourselves on not only meeting our clients' needs but also considering the surrounding environment. With this extension project in Barnes, we successfully struck a balance between preserving the character of the Conservation Area and introducing modern, practical elements that enhanced the functionality of the property.

Loft extension in Hampton Village under construction

This afternoon we visited our project in the Hampton Village Conservation Area to monitor the contractor’s progress on site and we were very pleased to see how well it is coming along!

This loft conversion will provide the family with an additional bedroom with an en-suite and storage as well as a new study space. Due to the location of the property within the conservation area our design is intentionally subtle so that it sits subserviently within the special architectural character of the area. Without the ability to place large dormers and extensions, we instead had the opportunity to play around with characterful dormers and flush roof lights to create a dynamic internal environment for our clients which not only provides them with new accommodation space but also fits within the context of the area.

This allowed to obtain planning approval without causing any delay to the overall process. Similar solutions were used in other projects elsewhere with great success.

You can also see a video of the interiors of the loft extension whilst being built by clicking here.

We look forward to seeing the final images of the project and will update this blog post as soon as these become available!

WE'VE UPDATED OUR BROCHURE!

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

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

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

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

Explore our brochure to discover architectural innovation and precise craftsmanship.

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

A-Frame Extension Nearing Completion in Hampton

Our project in Hampton is making great progress on site. This morning we visited to check in on the contractor’s progress and we were very pleased to see the crisp apex window detail installed!

Our project for in A-frame extension to an existing semi-detached house in Hampton is now well under construction.

The bi-fold doors and gable windows, two of the main features of this extension project, have been delivered on site and installed and they look great.

The picture above was taken in a very special moment of the construction process. At this stage it is usually obvious whether what has been designed reflects what has been built and we were very pleased to confirm that the Architects and Clients' vision was successfully delivered.

The configuration of a pitched roof and a vaulted ceiling, along with bi-fold door and gable windows, is optimal to maximize the views whilst retaining the traditional flavor of a sloped roof that relates visually to the existing character of the property.

The large width of this extension (that technically is part rear, part side extension) allows to open the views over the rear garden.

The large bi-fold doors can be fully opened guaranteeing a high degree of ventilation when necessary.

We are very pleased with the results so far and look forward to seeing the project finished.

Rear extension in Hampton Hill

Works for a rear extension in Hampton Hill are under way. The extension includes a flat roof rear section and a pitched roof side-return.

This blog entry refers to our project for a rear extension on a terraced house in Hampton Hill, for our project of a rear extension to a semi-detached house in Hampton Hill click here.

The project is an excellent example of a rear extension built under permitted development for larger home extensions.

This 2017 project included a ground floor rear extension and side return to a 3-bed terraced house in Hampton Hill. The project also included a loft extension to form an extra bedroom and a new bathroom.

Following an initial design meeting it was decided to relocate the kitchen area to the existing dining room and se the new bright extension as a new dining and sitting area.

During the schematic design phase, we agreed with the client to have a pitched roof for the side return and a flat roof for the rear extension. A large window was in correspondence of the rear extension to form a window seat serving the dining table.

The schematic design also included a daylight analysis that informed us of the optimal size and location of doors, window and skylights above both the rear extension and the side return section.

The design was discussed with the clients and the planning officer and it was agreed to submit a prior approval application for a larger home extension. The application was approved in April 2018 and allowed the project to proceed to the next stage, Detail Design.

During this phase we defined with the clients several details like finishes, artificial lighting etc… and we also liaised with Building Control and the Party Wall Surveyor. This allowed to start construction shortly after.

A-frame extension in Hampton

Today we visited one of our projects currently under construction in Hampton with a very interesting A-frame structure. More pictures to follow!

Our projects for an A-frame home extension in Hampton has started.

We visited the site recently and were impressed by the dramatic volume that the new structure is outlining.

The picture above shows the steel structure forming the gable window and the large opening for the bi-fold doors.

Part of the complexity of the project from both a structural and an architectural point of view was the interrelationship between the new steel structure and the existing masonry fabric that included the original 1930’s structural brick walls and a non-original flat roofed extension that can be seen in the picture above on the left hand side.

In order to form a new large opening between the existing house and the new extension, the structural engineer specified a large picture frame structure that included top and bottom beams and two steel columns.

As Architects we had the responsibility of understanding exactly how the new structure would relate to the existing fabric of the house and providing creative solutions regarding the interconnection of the structure to the other architectural elements including the roof tiles, insulation, waterproofing and internal finishes.

This project was rather challenging from a structural point of view and we discussed this in detail in this post. Another blog post discusses the project’s development on many levels and its challenges from a planning perspective and can be seen here.

The project is now built, and final photos can be seen here.

Small extension in Hampton

Today we visited a small rear extension in Hampton we recently designed. More pictures to follow!

The project for a rear extension to a 1960’s semi-detached brick house in Hampton has been completed.

The existing property had been extended approximately 20 years ago go with a conservatory that used to be too hot in the summer and too cold in winter, as it often happens in these cases.

The clients’ brief was to remove the conservatory and build a new rear extension to match the existing conservatory in terms of footprint.

The rear extension was built under Permitted Development however its design was very different from the original volume of the old conservatory.

in order to provide the feeling of a more seamless transition between the existing spaces and the new one it was decided to design a flat roof extension that guaranteed a flat ceiling with the same height of the existing one.

This created a visual connection between the existing kitchen space and the new extension that was going to be used as a dining area.

Daylight was very important for our clients and one of the main points in their briefs was that they enjoyed the generous amount of light that they received through their conservatory and although they were ready to loose part of it, they still wanted to have a very bright extension.

The project also included a new side window to provide daylight and views to an existing playroom.

We ran a daylight simulation in order to finalize the position and size of the skylight, windows and French door.

Both us and our client were extremely happy with the result and the build extension confirmed what we had foreseen through our drawings.

“Iacopo is everything you want in an Architect. Talented, thoughtful, precise, punctual and fantastic value for money. He listened carefully to our specification, guided us when we were lacking in knowledge and responded incredibly well when we changed our minds. He took our ground floor extension from a pipe dream to a design in weeks, his skill set enabled the design to go through local planning at the first time of asking. He held ours hands whilst we chose the building company to complete the work. We literally could not be happier with Iacopo - brilliant!”

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.

Don't Move, Improve! 2019

Project in Hampton under construction

We were very happy to visit one of our ongoing projects today. This project involves a complex transformation of a lovely house from the 1930s. The house is located in Hampton. We are excited to see the impressive changes being made, which include adding extra space to the rear and side of the ground floor, redesigning the first floor in a careful way, and turning the loft into a stunning master bedroom.

The client came to us in 2016 with a request to expand their semi-detached house. They wanted a rear extension to create more space in their kitchen and dining area, with the added feature of bi-fold doors that would connect the indoors with the outdoors. In addition, they wanted to replace the entire ground floor with a new timber floor and stone tiles in the kitchen. Another aspect of their request was a new side extension that would house a utility room accessible from both the front and rear of the property. This utility room would serve as storage, hold a washing machine, dog equipment, and even a bicycle. The side extension would also include a convenient guest WC. Recognizing that the existing lighting was insufficient, the client asked us to design a new lighting layout that would meet their needs. Finally, the project would encompass a loft extension to be transformed into a spacious master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.

Project in Hampton under construction

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

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

Porject in Hampton under construction

We are currently working on an exciting project in Hampton. Our team recently visited the site and we are happy to report that the construction is going well and our design is taking shape. We are documenting the progress and will share more images soon. Stay tuned for updates on this remarkable transformation!

The project at hand involves a transformation of the existing house, with various extensions planned on different levels. A rear extension and a side extension on the ground floor, and a loft extension are all part of the master plan. By strategically expanding the property, we aim to not only increase the overall square footage of living space but also incorporate much-needed utility areas. This holistic approach is set to enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the house, providing the homeowners with a thoughtfully designed and expanded haven to truly call home.

As usual, we paid exceptional attention to the spatial design with respect to the infusion of natural lighting. In line with our commitment to creating remarkable spaces, the planned extensions will showcase an integration of generous skylights. The addition of these strategically placed skylights will not only allow an abundance of natural light to flood the area but will also elevate the overall atmosphere, amplifying the sense of spaciousness and creating a truly captivating ambiance.

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.

RIBA featured project!

A big thank you to the Royal Institute of British Architects for having published our project for a Garden Office in Hampton in their official 2018 commercial brochure.

Our project for a garden office in Hampton was featured in latest RIBA 2018 commercial directory.

We are always very proud to have our projects featured in this type of publication as a recognition of our hard work during both the design and the construction stage.

In this case Square One Architects acted as both the Architect and the client and it was a very interesting experience because it allowed us to have a look at the construction process from two different points of view.

On one hand being the project client made our life easier in the sense that we kept a tight grip on every decision and the actions of the Architect in terms of design were perfectly harmonised with the duties of the client both during the design and the construction stage.

Said that being Architect and client at the same time presents its own issues; Having less constrains during the design phase can be very challenging. It may seem counterintuitive however it is much easier to design a project when the there are many limitations about what can and cannot be done. I think someone said that total freedom is the worst prison for an Architect, and I tend to agree with this statement. The input from a client is an essential part of our work as Architects and the limits to our creativity are essential to our work.

In order to avoid working in total freedom (or maybe I should say anarchy), we built our project around some existing limitations that were already in place. Some were purely technical (planning, drainage etc..), some were financial and in the end, we managed to find a balance that works for us.

We certainly wanted a simple building that could act as an incubator for our young practice. We were not looking for an architectural statement that could leave a mark in the short term, but also become boring or impractical in the long run.

In this sense the project was very successful. Many architects in history did not want to live or work in one of the buildings they designed because they would be over critical about their design and challenge every detail daily driving them eventually crazy!

Luckily this wasn't the case with our garden office project and we're still thoroughly enjoying working in this space to date.

The final project pictures can be seen here.

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.

Don't Move, Improve! 2018

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

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

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

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.

House extension in East Sheen

Our house extension project in East Sheen is progressing well. The external construction is finished, and we are impressed with the new spaces. The extension is spacious and blends seamlessly with the existing structure. In the back of the house, there is a large kitchen/living dining area where residents can gather. A guest area has also been added to provide a private retreat for visitors. Upstairs, a new bedroom in the loft offers a peaceful sanctuary. We have paid close attention to detail demonstrating our dedication to exceptional architectural design.

The client for this project initially approached us in 2017 with the idea of extending their 4-bed semi-detached house in East Sheen. In 2015, the client had obtained planning approval to build a single storey side and rear extension with a double storey corner infill to square off the first floor. However, they were not entirely satisfied with the layout produced by another firm, which led them to seek alternative options from Square One Architects.
Our innovative proposals went beyond the initial plans by extending the house further to the side, taking advantage of the sizable gap between the existing side of the property and a garden wall nearby. This extension not only maximizes the available space but also incorporates a self-contained flat that would serve as a comfortable living area for the client's relatives. Additionally, this versatile room could double as a playroom, creating a flexible and multifunctional space.
To further enhance the living area, we also included a loft extension in our design. This loft extension would add an extra bedroom and bathroom to the existing layout, providing additional functionality and allowing for the growing needs of the client's family.
By incorporating these additional elements, our design aims to meet the client's desires for expanded living space while also ensuring a seamless integration with the existing structure. Our team at Square One Architects is excited to bring this vision to life and provide a space that beautifully accommodates the client's needs for years to come.

FROST

Today, when we arrived at our office, we were amazed by the beautiful frost on our skylight. The frozen water droplets made intricate patterns that looked like a story created by nature. This brief moment reminded us of how nature can inspire us and make us feel uplifted. It was a wonderful way to start the day and made us feel more creative and grateful for the amazing things around us.

At Square One Architects, we are always intrigued by how architectural elements can transform spaces. One element that particularly fascinates us is the use of glass surfaces. These transparent features have a special ability to connect the indoor and outdoor environments. They let in natural light, making the interior feel more open and peaceful. The transparency of the glass blurs the lines between inside and outside, creating a beautiful interaction. It's amazing how these simple elements can enhance the design and make a space more enjoyable for people.

At Square One Architects, we have extensive knowledge in lighting design and spatial expertise. With these important skills, we help our clients achieve their goal of living in beautiful homes that match the natural surroundings. We pay close attention to detail to make sure the lighting design highlights each area's unique features and enhances its connection to nature. By understanding our clients' desire for stunning homes that connect with the outdoors, we create designs that surpass their expectations.

Construction starts for a project in Hampton

We're very excited to let you know that the construction of one of our projects for a loft extension in Hampton, is progressing well! Our team of architects has been working extremely hard to make this vision a reality, and we're thrilled with the progress the contractor is making.

The client approached Square One Architects in early 2017 with an exciting project in mind. They were looking to convert and extend the loft of their terraced house in Hampton to create additional living space. Specifically, their goal was to achieve two small bedrooms and a bathroom with a shower. Recognizing the potential of the loft, we immediately started discussing various types of loft extensions that could cater to their needs. One option that caught their attention was an "L-shaped" rear dormer roof extension. This particular design would not only maximize the existing footprint of the house but also provide ample space for the desired amenities.

Once we received approval for the project, our team at Square One Architects focused on the detailed design phase. This important stage allowed us to carefully address all the legal requirements and make sure we followed building codes. Through thorough research and planning, we created clear instructions that translated our design into guidance for the builders. We paid attention to every detail to provide precise specifications, materials, and construction methods for a successful project. This phase was the connection between our vision and the actual construction, making sure we followed all the rules and standards.