PLANT ROOM

With three children and a very demanding schedule, the client was in desperate need of a place to relax away from her busy life. The scheme developed by Sophie Nguyen Architects responded to the client’s daily urge to open all doors leading to the garden. The concept was influenced by the client’s passion for the outdoors, and her belief that exposure to greenspace contributes to her wellbeing.

By considering her love for nature, the project was focused on the remodelling of the rear façade in order to redefine the dark and cluttered space into a generous room filled with natural light, whilst creating a seamless connection to the garden. The obstructive existing structure was removed and replaced by steel beams recessed into the ceiling to enhance the view into the garden.

The red kitchen island hovers inside the space like a Chinese lacquered box, hiding the paraphernalia of cooking. Its gloss finish reflects the surroundings to widen the perception of the space. A new glass roof along the Party Wall provides the entire room with light throughout the day, and a perfect setting for an indoor winter garden. This garden will support a variety of plants, from palm trees to mixed herbs for cooking.

Through the addition and growth of these plants, the kitchen and dining space will become surrounded by an expanding jungle, fulfilling the client's desire to live among nature.

Photography by Hufton and Crow