The proposed scheme involves the demolition of the existing bunker and 1930’s single storey rear extension to Warren Cottage and their replacement with a new two storey side/rear extension and basement. Together with the conservation and necessary upgrading of Warren Cottage our intention is to create a modern family home that whilst been respectful of its history and its unique location fulfils the desires, aspirations and lifestyle of a modern family.
The form of the extension seeks to establish a relationship with the Victorian cottage, the mature garden, neighbouring proper ties and the adjacent boundaries. This has resulted in the creation of an interesting, stimulating and respectful dialogue between two distinct architectural languages and their shared environment; a relationship vital to the success of the project. Throughout the design the Victorian and contemporary architecture are always speaking to or glimpsing the other both internally and externally creating intriguing yet functional spaces.
The extension all be it contemporary remains mindful of its place. Our intention is to retain Warren Cottage as the focal point on site with the extension being subservient to it. The Cottage is to be back lit by the transparency of the extension that joins to the Cottage by the most delicate touch of glass. The external materials of the extension resonate the texture, depth and warmth which exude from the materials of the Victorian cottage. The insitu concrete is cast to give a wood grain texture and this together with the elements of random width and length boards of untreated Iroko and Iroko louvers allows the extension a sense of luxury yet a textile nature like that of the cottage. These materials although starkly modern echo the craftsmanship of the original dwelling yet have the ability to blend into the background and allow the cottage to remain centre stage.
Privacy and overlooking issues were important factors in the development of our proposal. The extension does not overlook neighbouring proper ties; conversely its interior and exterior spaces have been designed carefully for our client’s privacy and for the reduction of road noise, especially from Kingston Hill. The main entrance to the residence remains as existing, with the original entrance hall now penetrated with natural light from the extension. The two ground floor rooms of the cottage have been designated study and snug and retain all original features. Circulation pass through the delicate glass connection and leads into three free flowing spaces for food preparation, dining and relaxing as well as associated ancillary accommodation ie. Utility/boot room and W.C . Also located on the ground floor is a double bedroom with en-suite facilities allowing this to be a ‘Home for Life’. The positioning of the sunken lounge has being fundamental to the success of the ground floor plan and the creation of private external spaces. The sinking of the lounge all be it by 450mm gives it a sense of retreat the draped concrete walls allow no neighbouring proper ties views of within, whilst the garden level glazing allows seated occupants views of the garden. The lounge allows the morning terrace an air of seclusion whilst it itself opens up to a private terrace which captures the sun late into the evening. On the first floor lies two bedrooms with shared shower room and a third bedroom with ensuite amenities. The basement accommodates a family den and gym whilst benefiting from both internal and external access as well as natural daylight which make this space truly flexible.
