Green House, Hackney

A series of intimately connected spaces replace the previous divided layout. Now, a new glazed study offers privacy and views into the south facing garden, which has been re-landscaped and planted for colour, scent, and to promote biodiversity. Under the stairs a small utility room and toilet are provided behind panelled walls and hidden doors. A large L-shaped kitchen takes offers views from back to front gardens. At the rear a new glass house accommodates a bright dining space adjacent to the kitchen. The mono-pitched roof reflects that of the distinctive butterfly roofs of the terrace. Inside, taking inspiration from an antique Welsh dresser, the oak timber frame of the glass house is formed into a wall of shelving which can be used for display and storage. Externally, the frame introduces a pop of green painted aluminium to differentiate the new glass house from the more traditional spaces inside. Otherwise, the material and colour palette was influenced by the clients’ love for early 20th-century paintings of domestic interiors, embracing deep hues in the circulation spaces and kitchen and opening up to lighter natural oak in the glass house. It was important to introduce pattern and texture in the interior design, while using sustainable materials. A reclaimed parquet floor salvaged from a school sports hall provides character and a lasting, high-quality finish. The kitchen worktop is formed from 70% reclaimed materials, hand-marbled to create unique surface patterns. In the glass house a timber terrazzo floor reusing waste wood introduces a sense of playfulness and warmth, whilst harmonising with the oak frame.