The ‘Hideout’ - Crouch End

Brief: Terrace extension to a first floor flat

Scope: Full Planning Application, Building Regulations & Construction Information

This project was conceived by the owners of a first-floor flat during the height of lockdown. Like many people during this period, they began to reconsider how well their home worked for them — and where it could work harder. The existing kitchen was in need of refurbishment, as was the bathroom, while the owners were keen to explore whether the flat could provide more usable space.

With external space at a premium in London, our initial design studies investigated whether the existing layout could be reconfigured to accommodate a second bedroom without building over the existing terrace. We concluded that a modest extension over the terrace would provide the additional floor area required, allowing a second bedroom to be created without compromising the proportions and functionality of the existing rooms.

The existing rear elevation was a mixture of London stock brick and tired render. For the new extension, we proposed Scottish larch timber battens which would naturally weather over time. The timber would both complement and contrast with the existing material palette, giving the extension a natural, warm and timeless quality.

The environmental performance of the extension was also carefully considered. The proposed windows were triple-glazed timber units, helping to control solar gain while providing high levels of thermal performance. The combination of natural materials, considered detailing and improved building performance was intended to create a comfortable and durable addition to the flat.

Unfortunately, the project will not be built in its current form. The clients' circumstances changed and they ultimately decided to put the property on the market. We prepared a detailed handover pack for prospective owners, however, so there remains a small possibility that the design could one day be taken forward.

For us, this project demonstrates the value of exploring what is possible, even when a project does not ultimately reach construction. The design process identified a relatively simple way of significantly increasing the functionality of the flat while retaining the qualities of the existing terrace and improving the environmental performance of the home.

The section drawings above show how the extension was designed to make the most of the sunlight already reaching the existing terrace. A strip skylight, positioned against the wall of the existing house, allows daylight to penetrate deep into the new space while maintaining a strong connection with the terrace.

Large bi-fold windows are positioned at bench-seat height, creating an integrated seating and dining area. In summer, the windows can be opened fully, blurring the boundary between the kitchen and terrace and creating the impression of dining in the garden.

At just 9 square metres, this is one of the smallest extensions we have designed — and a particularly compact space for a kitchen and dining area. Making every centimetre count was therefore critical. The oversized corridor leading to the room was incorporated into the kitchen layout, effectively extending the usable kitchen space, while every available niche was considered as an opportunity for additional storage.

Despite its compact footprint, careful planning and considered joinery allowed us to accommodate all of the appliances and functions expected of a modern kitchen. In fact, the final layout even managed to find space for a wine cooler.