Paul Archer Design

Projects

Queens Crescent

A divided north London town house becomes a single-family home once again.

Overview

The remodelling and extension of this property was to improve accommodation and introduce a greater sense of airiness and light. On the lower ground floor, formerly a separate flat, the space was extended beneath the existing rear wing to create an additional bedroom and has been enhanced with a brightening roof lantern.

Project description

The remodelling and extension of this property was to improve accommodation and introduce a greater sense of airiness and light. On the lower ground floor, formerly a separate flat, the space was extended beneath the existing rear wing to create an additional bedroom and has been enhanced with a brightening roof lantern. The upper ground floor was opened-up to aid with flow, creating a better connection between living spaces. This was achieved by widening the door to both the stair hall and new extension.

The existing rear extension, conceived as a solid mass with recesses and apertures carved out, was re-built in brick. The blank wall on the first floor adds to the sense of solidity, which contrasts with the openness of the glazed elements below. Here the blend of three different brick, create an eye-catching display of texture. The cantilevered corner clears the way for a frameless corner window, resulting with an increase of daylight and aspect view of the garden. The roof terrace to the extension has been surfaced in brick to further accentuate the impression of sturdiness and material continuity. Meanwhile, the kitchen has been redesigned in a colourful palette of laminated ply, bringing a brightness and contemporary energy to the home.

The upper floors of the house have received a cosmetic refresh – bathrooms have been retiled and bedroom storage expanded through bespoke laminated cupboards. Above this, the existing loft conversion has been modernised, with new flooring and insulated glazing added. With the removal of some of the internal partitions this space is now habitable all year round.

Material design

A blend of three different brick finishes have been used to create a distinctive texture to the exterior. A dark mortar with recessed joints has been used to accentuate the profile of the brickwork. The brick has also been used to surface the upper and lower terraces thereby continuing the theme of solidity.

Specifications

Before GIFA
230.3 sqm
After GIFA
250.1 sqm
Cost
£2,299 / sqm
Completed
2021
Contractor
B&A Woodworking
Structural Engineer
J Friis Consulting Structural Engineers Ltd
Photography
Andy Stagg

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