Ground floor extension
Oakwood
Ground floor Extension
Oakwood, Berkhamstead, 2024
The Project
The project aimed to transform a property into a bright, family-friendly space. By prioritising natural light, visual connections, and functionality, the space is now an open plan layout with distinct yet connected zones for socialising and activities.
The exterior aimed for simplicity and modernity, avoiding the introduction of additional colours into an already busy palette.
The charred timber cladding harmonises with existing materials while maintaining a sleek appearance. The ebonised wood cladding was chosen for its resilience and longevity, which is impregnated into the wood via a combination of chemical processes and charring.
Overhangs in the extension of the build create shade and minimise the glare inside, whilst aligning picture frame windows on the sides of the extension allow visual connection bettween the external patio spaces.
The clients wanted a sociable, visually connected space which allowed them to entertain their family. The original layout didn’t accommodate for their needs, leading to unused rooms and disconnected areas.
The kitchen design needed to create a space which promoted family interaction, as well as being functional with increased worktop space and storage. A built in seating area and central island were introduced to create a primary space for cooking, dining, and socialising. On the far end of the kitchen, long, linear roof lights were introduced to bring in sun to the depths of the property. The new kitchen space serves as a bright social space with improved visibility and flow in relation to the rest of the house.
The media wall was designed to address the need for structural support and housing the TV and fireplace. Functionally, the media wall serves as a subtle divider between the main living space and the kitchen, without sacrificing the flow of natural light.
