Internal remodelling, extension and new outbuilding to a family home in Harpenden.
The Extension
Conceived as a simple glass box that both contrasts and complements the existing building, the fully-glazed extension enables the interior of the building to visually dissolve into the garden beyond. Opening up views, bringing in daylight and offering a contemporary counterpoint to the existing building whilst being subservient in size.
To the rear, the intention is to create a simple form that generates the requisite additional floorspace without competing with the character of the locally listed home or indeed the wider Conservation Area.
Numerous massing options were explored and discounted as too disruptive to the form and mass of the original building. The flat-roof glazed extension becomes a vitrine for living, generous rooflights bringing a sense of airiness and light, framed above by a datum of dark timber that serves as a continuation the existing weatherboarding and ties the new form into the old.
The Garden Room
A new garden room is installed to the rear of the garden, providing a space for home-working, yoga and a sauna.
The building footprint follows the geometry of the site and occupies an area that was previously hardstanding and gravel, offering views back across the garden towards the main house.
The small building will be clad in dark timber and glass, topped with an extensive green roof, allowing it to be immersed and almost camouflaged into the densely vegetated corner of the property. Reveals are expressed with a contrasting natural timber, recalling the material dialogues of a Barbara Hepworth sculpture, with new aromatic planting installed beneath the window.
All Photos by French + Tye
