71 Cliddesden Road

A deceptively simple yet technically detailed project, its design concept focuses on the application of a ‘layered’ façade through the implementation of an external courtyard to address privacy from the street caused by heavy footfall from a local college. Rather than creating excess internal space, the scheme reconnects existing family spaces, while increasing the footprint of the existing kitchen and providing a new utility room.

From the street, the extension appears grounded to the existing property by its use of a precast concrete frame which forms the first visual sightline to the property. The façade is proportionally subdivided by the vertical frame, which in turn organises the space. In contrast to the concrete, the internal skin of the courtyard is fully glazed to improve the visual connection to the outside and welcomes more natural light into the space.

One of the principal objectives was to maintain and add character to the original house where possible by weaving the old and new together. To achieve this, the existing vaulted kitchen was retained to create a unique ceiling profile by redecorating the exposed beams.

The external material palette incorporates an interesting and complementary mix of materials which acknowledges the existing house while appearing contemporary in its form. The brickwork has been matched to the existing house, while the exposed concrete frame pays homage to the pebbledash and lintels on the existing property. The courtyard is clad in zinc to create a dark backdrop and a strong juxtaposition to the concrete frame and the light material palette internally.

Annual CO2 data was not provided