Introducing the project schedules

Our client for a house extension in Twickenham recently stressed the importance of showing before and after images to highlight the impressive difference between the existing building and the extended and refurbished one. Their existing house presented some significant issues with internal steps and changes of ceiling level (a consequence of many subsequent extensions carried out in the past) and our project resolved all this issue providing at the same time an additions room.

For most projects it is important to show where you started, in order to explain in more detail the reasons behind the initial brief from the client and the subsequent decisions.

As a practice we work in a bespoke fashion for all the projects we undertake, and we place attention on the clients’ initial brief.

This gave us the idea of preparing a "project schedule" section within our blog with some key project information.

The schedules are also an opportunity to discuss the projects in a more informal way highlighting the challenges that we encountered while designing our extensions or refurbishments, but also discussing the client’s feedback and our experience working with all the other actors involved in the construction process in particular contractors, structural engineers, party wall surveyors, building control etc...

We will also discuss some planning matters, for projects that were in Conservation Areas that naturally present additional challenges.

In this sense the schedules complement the information that is already available in our projects page.

The first seven schedules are now live on our website, please click on the links below:

Schedule #1: Full house refurbishment in Hampton Hill

Schedule #2: Home extension in East Sheen

Schedule #3: Rear extension in Teddington

Schedule #4: House extension in Barnes

Schedule #5: House extension in Byfleet and New Haw

Schedule #6: Rear extension in Hampton Hill

Schedule #7 Rear extension in Hampton

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: Rear extension in Kingston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Our new project for a house extension in Byfleet & New Haw

A pretty dramatic before and after image of the front our recent project for a detached house in Byfleet and New Haw

The pictures above show the dramatic difference between the existing detached house in Byfleet and New Haw before and after the extension and refurbishment works.

When we first met the client in 2018, we found a property with lots of potential but very tired both externally and internally. The house needed a full refurbishment and several improvements were also necessary in order to maximize the use of internal spaces.

In the picture to the right our first-floor side extension can be seen to the left. The purpose of this extension was to add a new dressing area and en-suite bathroom with a window on the front of the house. Both the dressing room and en-suite have been designed to be directly connected to an existing bedroom that the clients decided to use as their master bedroom.

The project also included new rendering to the front, sides and rear of the property and the ground floor rear extension along with several internal alterations to create an open plan space at ground floor level.

It was a remarkably interesting project, with a proactive client who put a lot of stress on the importance of design.

We are incredibly happy with the result and final pictures of the standard property can be seen here.

When we went to site we also filmed a video showing the ground floor of the property. It can be visualized here.

Work in progress: Daylight analysis for one of our projects in Hampton

We usually determine the final dimension of doors and skylights using daylight analysis tools. These tools play a crucial role in our design process, allowing us to carefully assess and optimize the luminance levels on specific dates. For one of our ongoing projects in Hampton, we recently conducted a thorough analysis and the images below refer to a daylight simulation on March 21st at 12.00.

When it comes to predicting daylight levels, at Square One Architects, we rely on two key metrics: daylight factor and luminance. These metrics provide us with valuable insights, each with its own advantages and limitations. The daylight factor offers a straightforward snapshot of the projected average daylight levels, while luminance provides a more intricate analysis, taking into account factors such as orientation, the day of the year, and the time of day. By carefully cross-referencing these results, we can effectively communicate to our clients the reasons behind our optimized design choices for doors, windows, and skylights, tailored to their unique project requirements.

This particular project involves both a ground floor extension and a loft extension, posing unique challenges when it comes to daylighting. When it comes to the ground floor extension, it is of utmost importance to consider the predicted level of daylight in relation to the orientation of the building and the size of the glazed surfaces. Thankfully, in this case, the rear extension faces north, granting us the opportunity to incorporate generous glazed surfaces while minimizing the risk of overheating during the warmer summer months.

Work in progress: rear and loft extension in Hampton

We want to show you a beautiful picture of our latest project in Hampton. It's an extension at the back and on the top floor of a house. The picture shows a modern and impressive design with a lot of attention to detail. In the picture, you can see a playroom, a dining area, and an open plan kitchen. The design makes the space flow smoothly, which is great for relaxing and socializing.

At Square One Architects, we take pride in being able to explain our design ideas clearly to our clients. We often use 3D modelling tools to help our clients understand and appreciate our designs. These tools allow our clients to experience their future homes in a virtual way. This advanced technique makes it easier for our clients to imagine their dream homes. With our expertise in 3D modelling, we make sure to include a lot of detail and make everything look realistic. This helps our clients form a strong connection with their imagined spaces.

3D modelling comes particularly handy following the planning stage when clients are expected to take important decisions on their projects, such as materials, kitchen design, lighting, and many more. Utilizing 3D modelling technology allows architects to present clients with a variety of options in quick succession, enabling them to visualize the different possibilities with ease and make well-informed decisions. The ability to present multiple designs efficiently not only saves time but also enhances collaboration between the architect and the client, ensuring that the final outcome meets the client's expectations and preferences. By harnessing the power of 3D modelling, architects can bring ideas to life, enabling clients to make informed choices and ultimately leading to the creation of stunning, functional spaces.

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 the Hampton Conservation Area: new video under construction

We recently visited our project for a loft extension in a Conservation Area. This video shows the transition between the new stair to landing to the new master bedroom and en-suite.

The client approached Square One Architects in 2018 with the specific brief for their three-bedroom semi-detached house in the Hampton Village Conservation Area.

The intention was to use the loft of their property as a new master bedroom with an en suite. The room would take advantage of some very interesting views to the rear towards the Hampton Water Works and unobstructed daylight.

Given the fact that the property was in a Conservation Area, we suggested the client to go through a pre-planning procedure in order to obtain an informal feedback from the Council.

This was very useful, and it helped inform a second iteration of the design that included a mansard roof and two smaller lead dormers that was deemed to be more in keeping with the existing property and the character of the Conservation Area in general.

The original stair of the property, connecting the ground floor and the first floor, was very steep and its head height was already quite limited. One of the challenges of this project was to design the new stair contacting the first floor and second floor without further compromising the already limited head height at first floor level. Thanks to a very precise 3D model we managed to foresee the exact dimensions of the new stair in relationship to the existing one and this helped tremendously our communication with building control and the stair’s supplier before and during construction stage.

This loft conversion video was taken around the end of the construction process. The room feels bright and spacious and take advantage of the generous amount of daylight from the two new windows to the rear and two large skylights installed at the front of the property. The new bathroom was installed within the eaves of the roof and it is naturally lit by one further skylight facing the front of the dwelling.

More images to follow soon.

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!

New photos of our project for a house extension in Teddington

Check out the new external photos of our project for a house extension in Teddington including the new external patio. Click here

We are really pleased with these Teddington house extension photos by Emanuelis Stasaitis.

He is always very good at getting the best shots out of our projects and I think these home extension photos prove the point.

This home extension in Teddington was designed between 2017 and 2018 for a young family of four with two children.

It was it was a great experience from our point of view because the clients proved to be informed and engaged from a design perspective at any stage.

The project involved the ground floor side and rear extension and complete remodeling of the floor plan.

The existing property was a typical 1930s semi-detached house with large garden at the rear. As it often happens the property had been extended in the past with a conservatory that used to be too hot in the summer and too cold in winter.

The initial client idea was to demolish the conservatory and carry out a rear extension however it soon became apparent that adding a side extension (to match the one in the neighboring property) would have provided a very useful amount of internal space for service rooms such as a guest WC a utility room and a small study.

The client had an interest into industrial architecture, and it was decided to keep one of the structural steel beams visible. In these cases, it is essential to use an intumescent paint for fire rating purposes. We agreed with the client to retain the beam that subdivides the dining area from the living space in order to create a feature.

The client also decided to supply Crittall style doors and windows that help define the character of the extension.

We have many home extension photos in our project page you can have a look by clicking here

You can also see the project schedule here.

Hopefully these photos will be able to inspire potential clients or provide some home extension ideas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

House extension and refurbishment in Hampton Hill

We are excited to present our new project, a home expansion and renovation in Hampton Hill. We have a video that shows the design from start to finish, giving you a clear view of the transformation. Be on the lookout for more pictures that will showcase the skilled work and careful design that went into creating this space.

At ground floor level, our clients requested a side return extension to expand their living space. This involved the removal of an existing bathroom to make way for an open and inviting area that encompassed both a new kitchen and a dining area. Additionally, one of the main design challenges we tackled was the reorientation of the existing staircase by a 90-degree angle within the new kitchen/dining space.
Moving up to the first floor, we transformed one of the bedrooms into a generously proportioned bathroom. By removing an existing partition, we successfully fashioned a second spacious bedroom on this floor, maximizing the available space to meet the needs of the family.
Expanding further at the loft level, we introduced two brand-new bedrooms and a family bathroom. This addition not only complemented the existing layout but also provided our clients with an accommodating and versatile space for their growing household. We took great pleasure in designing this project specifically tailored for a young couple, and we have full confidence that the thoughtfully crafted spaces will cater perfectly to their evolving needs.

RIBA London directory

Our project for a house extension in East Sheen was featured in this year’s RIBA London Directory, this is the third project featured in three years!

Our project for a house extension in East Sheen was published on the RIBA London Directory of Chartered Practices 2019.

As usual we are very proud to see one of our designs being featured in this type of publication that showcases the best projects from all around London.

In this case we are particularly proud because the project in question is one of the larger schemes we have been developing in the last few years.

The project dates to 2017 and it includes a ground floor rear plus side extension, a first-floor infill extension and a loft extension. The project was completed in late 2018.

The existing house, a 1930`s detached dwelling in East Sheen, was significantly extended and enhanced thanks to our work.

This project represents another successful case study where the Architect, client and contractor managed to work together and deliver a product of exceptional quality.

The extended house feels incredibly bright and spacious and the existing rooms have been enhanced by adding new spaces such as an open plan kitchen and dining area, a more secluded living space towards the rear of the property, a first floor family bathroom and the new loft extension that includes a new bedroom and an en-suite. The project also includes a side extension that is used as a self-contained granny flat with a bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a small living space.

We received several requests to publish this project and we will keep this blog updated.

You can see the final pictures of the project here

Loft extension in the Conservation Area in Hampton Village

Check out our new video of a loft extension project in Hampton Conservation area. See the construction progress and attention to detail as the extension comes together. This addition includes a spacious landing area, a beautiful master bedroom, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Watch as this empty space is transformed into a modern yet charming design.

The client initially approached Square One Architects back in 2017 with the exciting project of extending their charming 3-bed semidetached house in Hampton. This property, situated within the Hampton Village Conservation Area, held great potential for an expansion. With a vision to create a spacious haven, the client specifically wanted to extend the loft area to craft a master bedroom complete with an en-suite bathroom.
Upon examining the property, we discovered that it already featured an existing gable roof, which conveniently provided an internal height of approximately 2.8m. This height proved sufficient to accommodate our proposed loft extension, sparing us the need for major alterations to the ceilings below. With this positive starting point, we engaged in extensive discussions with the client regarding the planning strategy for their renovation.
Considering the property's location within the Conservation Area, we mutually agreed to take a proactive approach by submitting a pre-planning application. This strategic move allowed us to seek preliminary feedback from the Council, ensuring our design aligned seamlessly with the neighborhood's rich architectural heritage. By involving the local authorities early on, we could streamline the planning and approval process, thus reducing potential delays.
To optimize space utilization within the property, we strategically positioned the new staircase for seamless connectivity between the first and second floors. By aligning it with the existing stairway, we minimized any unnecessary loss of space at the first floor level. This thoughtful design solution ensured that the loft extension harmoniously blended with the existing layout, enhancing both practicality and aesthetic appeal.
At Square One Architects, we pride ourselves on crafting solutions that not only cater to our clients' desires but also effectively navigate local regulations. This project in Hampton embodies our commitment to preserving the architectural integrity of heritage areas while tastefully elevating the living experience for homeowners.

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.

A Deck overlooking the Thames in Hampton

A fun little project of a new deck for a friend's house that was recently recently built. The house is located on a small island in the river Thames and the deck overlooks Garrick's temple and Villa to the north, quite a view!

One of the interesting features of the new deck is the integrated gutter system that allows to collect water below the deck in a seamless fashion.

A project for a new deck to a house situated on Garrick’s Ait in the middle of the River Thames has been completed.

The new deck is stunning, and it contributes to make the most out of the beautiful existing views over Hampton including Garrick’s temple, Garrick villa and St Mary's Church.

The existing deck needed to be repaired and it was decided with the clients to remove one of the stairs that lead directly to the river.

This decision generated more space for the deck itself without the interruption of one of the stairs.

The existing handrail was replaced with a new timber balustrade with horizontal elements that is more in keeping with the nautical theme of the house and the island in general.

The new timber deck rich tones create a beautiful contrast with the striking colours of the river and the landscape in front.

Square One architects have also been involved in the detailing of the new drainage system that is concealed below the deck. This system is a more efficient and elegant way to get rid of rainwater and contributes to the simple yet beautiful look of the new deck.

The final images of the project can be seen here.

new haw project now completed

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

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

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

House in Byfleet and New Haw coming soon

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

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

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

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

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