Backland development at the rear garden of 145 Claremont Ave

Due to the zigzag form of the rear garden, the applicant’s site has an abnormally large size and direct intimate relation with multi-neighbouring properties. In relation to multi-neighbouring, the backyard has constraints of height restriction due to overlooking and outlook issues. This given condition was an opportunity to design multiple one-storey spaces oriented along the north-south axis.

The design divides the public (living and kitchen) zone and the private (bedroom) zone into two wings split by a central courtyard at its core. The timber decking of the central courtyard is expressed on the ceiling and soffit of the canopy right through the internal link connection that joins the two wings, creating a form welcoming front garden (public) and tranquil rear garden (private).

The public wing is pulled out close to the entrance to introduce a pocket garden space respectively next to the living area and next to the master bedroom. The proposed layout of the house attempts to evoke the sequence of entering a Hanok (a Korean traditional house) the procession of gradually approaching a private space from the most public space such as entering a living room from a front yard via an elevated decking (medium).

Thus, the design attempts to express the various living experiences while respecting the height and overlooking restriction constraints. The overall large-sized rear garden is rationalised via applying several mediums; guest outbuilding, exposed decking, water pond, split wings and individual pocket gardens.

The tailored design enhances and creates an identity through weaving the most familiar sequence specific to the client (who is Korean) into the most intimate space within the context of this UK semi-detached rear garden house.

Annual CO2 data was not provided