Putney House

Our recent project—a compact home extension that also serves as a music studio—exemplifies this principle by creating spaces that foster both communal engagement and individual contemplation within a limited footprint of 2m x 3m by the way it annexes the main living space. The design emphasizes the importance of environments that facilitate social interaction while accommodating diverse family needs. Within just 6m², we have crafted a layout that harmonizes spaces for collaboration, creativity, and quiet reflection. This approach recognizes the home as a dynamic social ecosystem where relationships are nurtured. Originally designed by Eric Lyons of SPAN in the 1960s, the existing structure featured exposed brick, which we retained to evoke warmth and character. By integrating this material with timber accents, the extension invites both social interaction and personal retreat. Material selection enhances functionality and aesthetic appeal, accommodating various uses, including garden potting and a tranquil retreat. A large rooflight contrasts solid brick with a lightweight glass corner frame, encouraging connection to the outdoors and intimate family gatherings. The client's desire for a garden for growing fruits and vegetables underscores the importance of nature in fostering social interaction. By opening communal areas, we have established a central hub for family life, with the kitchen as the heart of the home. Putney House illustrates how a well-designed small extension can significantly enhance a modest space. By prioritizing design quality over size, the scheme enriches the social dynamics of the home, demonstrating that thoughtful architecture can create environments that nurture connection, creativity, and contemplation.