Project: Refurbishment, Extension and Loft Conversion
Architects: YARD Architects
Location: Tooting, South London, United Kingdom
Photo Credits: Chris Snook
Text by YARD Architects
A full refurbishment with rear extension and loft conversion transformed this small terraced property into a light and contemporary home. The vast living space at the back of the house opens into the garden through a minimally framed projecting glass bay.
The bay allowed us to squeeze that little bit of extra living space beyond the established line of adjacent extensions. The planting in the garden also extends alongside the glass ends of the bay, visually bringing the garden into the interior of the space. A long strip roof light at the back of the living space provides soft light at the back of the plan, also lighting the kitchen which is located in the centre of the house.
The sunken living space is occupiable to three sides with built in furniture, to ensure a social and functional space. A desk runs full width along one side, and a storage and tv bench to the other. The two steps down into the space continue full width to allow handy perching space.
The rear extension is finished in black brickwork with colour matched mortar, with the material continuing internally above an oak topped bench. The use of the brick inside enables the mass of the extension to be better understood, and provides texture and warmth to the minimal aesthetic.
A new painted timber staircase runs through the house, with simple slatted balustrades becoming screens to the first floor. The screens were designed to be removable to assist in moving furniture. A double height hallway at first floor exposes the height up to the existing pitches roof, where a new loft conversion houses a third bedroom and en-suite.
