Within the envelope of an existing 2-storey detached dwelling, the Client’s requested extensive renovations and refurbishment to reflect the contemporary nature of their lifestyle and new family. The existing building, on a tight, triangular site with limited natural lighting and multiple enclosed rooms, had not taken advantage of its location with narrow frontage and wide rear. This offered an opportunity to expand the dwelling without its scale impacting on the neighbours, and afford an open recreational area that centres the spatial plan.

The design approach was to open the interior both laterally and vertically to create a sense of horizon and depth affording greater visibility to the external gardens. Repositioning the staircase for the upper level to this new hall, allowed the additional natural lighting and transparent glazing to bring the landscaped exterior inwards thus increasing the sense of space. The existing upper level, was enclosed with a stylised external screen providing security whilst reflecting the 1960′s style of the original building.