We were approached by our clients as they were struggling with reordering the ground floor of their home in the Dulwich Estate. The house was blessed with a large beautiful and mature garden and a confused combination of spaces. The house was not lacking in space but in clarity and hierarchy. A lot of hard work had been put into making the rest of the house organised, however the family needed a series of spaces to call the heart of the home. The existing rear extension had limited views of the garden and overheating and cooling issues, the kitchen too small and the dining room impractical.

We set about creating a purposeful journey from front door to a family room for all members of the family to congregate overlooking the impressive gardens. A large open and bright space with a clear kitchen, dining and living area were created. Due to the South Western orientation the extension had potential to become overheated yet the client wanted large and expansive views of the garden. Carefully considered natural ventilation, solar treated glazing and brise soleil were integrated into the design and keep the extension cool in warmer months. A snug room offered alternative spaces for evening relaxation, and a inner hall was introduced to celebrate the client favourite art, whilst linking the entrance to the hub of the home.