Framework House

The house was formerly a series of small, disconnected spaces with very dark areas, a narrow kitchen and a thermally inefficient UPVC conservatory from the late 90s.

An innovative solution of exposed timber beams provides form, structure and storage for the space. To establish a separation between the kitchen and the reading / play area while giving each space a sense of identity and purpose, a structure of exposed pale timber rafters has been installed – as a permeable room divider to maintain the connection between sitting area and kitchen and to offer shelving with open storage.

The separate spaces are referenced, both externally and internally, using an asymmetric form that is united by the pale white brick facade. The sloping roof shape gives a higher volume to the kitchen whilst being more intimate for the reading/play area.

The new extension is flooded with natural light due to the rooflights overhead, the oversized patio door and the large picture window. They create views out into the garden and develop an interior–exterior connection. Specific materials were chosen to further emphasise this connection and to encourage the diffusion of light within the interior space, such as exterior use of white bricks and pale exposed timber internally.

Beautiful views and a physical connection to the outdoor space through glass doors and a window seat improve health and wellbeing. A sedum roof spans the entire extension. Looking out of the windows on the first floor, you can see the green roof merge with the garden which creates a natural and calm space, while encouraging biodiversity and collecting rainwater.

Annual CO2 data was not provided