The Street, Norfolk

Core to the brief was the creation of a sustainable and contemporary space to allow family and friends to dine around a single table. With a focus on sustainability, simple proportions and the use of natural materials, the design of the extension is based on the notion of a timber ‘pavilion’, a celebratory structure looking to compliment, draw reference from, yet also contrast the original cottage. Throughout the design process a sustainable approach informed decisions from the initial feasibility through to material selection and construction methods. Structurally the project utilises an oak super-structure and raised timber floor supported on ground screws, avoiding the need for deep concrete foundations otherwise required in the heavy clay soil. Internally the natural rubber floor and recycled glass worktops further reduces the environmental impact of the build. The sliding glazed walls, shaded by the depth of the oak ring beam draws natural light deep into the space, additionally helped by the specification of a light grey rubber floor. The natural ageing of the oak structure will gradually soften against the cottage and surrounding landscape, whilst the copper down-pipe will undergo its own transformation. The reconfigured layout extends the original very narrow south facing dining room and relocates the original north facing kitchen into this space to create an open plan kitchen / dining space. The sliding glazed walls to the extension help to form a stronger relationship between these core spaces and garden, enhancing the lives of those who inhabit them for years to come. Collaboration has been key to the success of the project, from the relationship between architect and client through to the craftsmanship of Joe Beek and structural approach of Agnos Studio.