Atelier

Through its west elevation and will provide an Atelier for our Architectural Practice. We inherited two magnificent and biblical Plane trees with this property. We refer to the one in the front as 'Kane' and the one in the rear as 'Abel' and these have played a significant role in the design of the Atelier, which acknowledges its relation to the house and context through its shape and materials. The extension reconciles the relationship between the front (Kane) and the back (Abel) of the house by creating both a physical and conceptual link between the two. The main feature of the site extension is its saw-toothed fan-shaped roof which geometrically connects the two sides of the building. It opens up to both North and South towards the trees. Vertical openings will let natural daylight in. The roof surfaces are mirrored on both horizontal and sloping faces, inside and out. The vertical clerestory windows allow views to both Kane & Abel, whilst the mirrored surfaces facilitate the reflections of both tree so that they are architecturally reconciled. The mirror cladding will make the trees and surroundings reflect on its surface, enhancing the existing qualities of the area. Internally, the play between space and light during the day can be mesmerising. The movement of the sun creates a kinetic light dance on the walls and floors, akin to a Peter Sedgley light canvas installation.