Project: Side Extension, Partial refurbishment, Reconfiguration.
Location: Crouch End, London
Year: 2017-2018
In response to our client's need for a home that supports modern family life, we designed an extension for a ground-floor garden flat, prioritizing a low-cost solution with maximum impact. The project aimed to introduce a dining room while addressing the spatial limitations and the complexities of working within a building shared with multiple neighbours.
The client's key request was to create a visual connection between the kitchen, dining room, and living room, making it easier to supervise children and ensuring the space felt more open and connected. This layout also maximized the flow of natural light into the living room, enhancing the overall sense of space and warmth.
One of the more unique aspects of this project was the collaborative approach with the client's neighbour, who expressed interest in extending their own flat in a similar way. This cooperation allowed us to propose two mirrored extensions with identical geometry, which streamlined the planning process. We worked closely with planners and the neighbour to secure approval for a higher ceiling height than would typically be permitted, enhancing the sense of space without adding significant cost.
By coordinating the development as a dual project, we simplified construction logistics, especially in managing the Party Wall Awards. The shared extension not only improved efficiency but also fostered a harmonious relationship between the two properties, further reducing potential disputes.
The client was delighted with the final result. The new dining room added significant value to the property, serving both as an airy, light-filled space for family meals and as a flexible room that doubles as a yoga or exercise area. The thoughtful design provided a contemporary, multi-functional solution that addressed the client’s practical needs while respecting the challenges of a complex site.
