Garden Room

Sited at the end of the garden of the Grade II listed townhouse, the brief was for a small, private living and sleeping space away from the bustle of the main house; a room of her own. A magnificent tree sets the context for the small building. Designed to fit into its garden setting, a pergola structure forms the threshold between the garden and the interior space. Sliding trellised screens provide layering and privacy, whilst masking the full width glazing. The large, circular, moonlike opening softens the orthogonal elevation, allowing an uninterrupted view back to the garden. Augmenting the sense of seclusion, the external envelope is of charred timber. By contrast, the interior is light and bright. Crossing diagonal roof joists, reminiscent of tree branches, take the eye across the ceiling. Overhead, circular skylights bring dappled light deep into the plan, whilst giving views up into the vibrant tree canopy above. The open-plan space is divided by a full-height wardrobe which separates the shower room, whilst maintaining visual continuity across the whole ceiling. The birch ply wall linings give a warm feel to the interior, whilst the grain of the Douglas Fir floor brings an organic, visual texture to the ground. Highly sustainable, the building is very well insulated, naturally lit and ventilated, with electric underfloor heating. The superstructure, cladding, and interior linings are all of timber. The small screw piles, designed to protect the tree roots, are easily removed to leave the site as found. The Garden Room provides a contemplative and comfortable place of repose. The garden, now appearing larger, is enhanced by the new pergola structure, which provides the opportunity for climbing plants.