The extension in Dollis Hill was designed by Thomas-McBrien Architects to create a new family space which connected the house and the garden. The existing property is located on a sloping site in Dollis Hill, North London. Due the severity of the slope across the site, the rear garden is approximately 1.2metres below existing ground floor level. Works involved the construction of a new single storey extension, including the full refurbishment of the existing property.
A split level plan was introduced at the ground floor level to ensure the house connected to the garden. As a result, the full-width rear extension is approximately one and a half floors below the existing first floor level, thereby a large floor to ceiling height could be achieved, providing a sense of grandeur to the new every-day space. Large full-height sliding doors open out onto a south facing terrace with steps the threshold to the garden beyond. The external terrace, acting as a plinth, helps to ground the new extension into the existing slope.
Internally, full height oak joinery is proposed. A large utility room and a storage area are concealed behind this deep wall of timber. The insertion of a deep seating alcove in the joinery offers a comfortable, sheltered enclosure - a perfect place to read and relax. The seating extends along the flank wall and into the casement window, offering a window seat with direct views over the rear garden. The lightly washed oak joinery elements along with natural stone worktops, mortar washed brickwork, offer a warm, muted interior palette, reflecting our clients request for a calm and relaxing everyday space. The east London based studio was founded in 2017 by Barry McBrien. The studio is currently working on a range of projects from temporary installations and residential projects to larger scale places to live, to work, to learn and to worship.
