Highgate Oak & Glass Extension

The only previous connection was a small bay window which poked out into the patio. Although small, it was the family's favourite spot in the house to sit and enjoy the sunset and views of the garden. The new side return extension recreates this bay window but on a much grander scale. It reads as a lightweight structure that projects out from the side of the house.

The external wall has been opened up to merge the new space with the existing house and patio. Creating a large, flexible open plan kitchen filled with natural light and fantastic views out to the garden and landscape beyond. The junction between old and new is highlighted which helps to give the impression of still being inside the old kitchen whilst at the same time also being outside and connected with the garden.

The large glass doors of the extension slide away against the house to create a complete wall open to the garden further bringing the outside in. Natural materials such as oak, slate and larch have been used throughout and the light weight structure is expressed as a slim glazed oak frame. All the pieces of oak used in this project were hand selected and fabricated by ourselves and the client creating a very personal finished project.

The black aluminium wrapping around it provides a contrast to these natural textures resulting in a contemporary extension which is warm, calm and inviting. The use of 3D modelling and VR throughout the design and build helped convey the design clearly to the client as well as inform the builder. This allowed the client to feel completely involved during the design and detailing stages.

Photography by Lloyd Reading