Single Storey Rear Extension in Layer-de-la-Haye 18173

LAYER-DE-LA-HAYE, ESSEX

Single Storey Rear Extension

Structural Engineer: Brett Design Partnership

Building Contractor: Stanway Building Solutions Limited

Situated in a quiet Essex village this home already had a lot to offer. The potential for improvement was, to some extent, a gift to us. The substantial front and rear elevation to the property meant that any extension would generate significant space without creeping too far into the back garden.

The original kitchen was small in comparison to the property’s footprint and did not make full use of the light and space available from the rear, seeking instead the double aspect light. Our job was to support the owners through a considerable extension which would provide light and airy open plan space to incorporate and enlarge the original kitchen and blend it seamlessly into a family living space.

The showpiece of this project is the striking gable frame extension which returns into the garden, drawing light from all directions and to the full height of the extension’s apex.

PROJECT DETAILS

The Final Designs

The height adds drama and interest and yet provides a tranquil area for the family to stop, read the paper, drink coffee and move easily in and out of the garden. The kitchen was completely re-installed and re-modelled to work with the stunning new floorplan, making good use of a breakfast bar return to help section the space. Working closely with the owners, we introduced design and build features which would bring long-term benefit such as roof lights throughout, to maximise light from above. The owners were particularly pleased with our suggestion to incorporate picture windows to the sides of the gable extension, not only do they add light, but they provide apertures to the garden without the intrusion of glazing bars, meaning the pool can easily be seen from the seating area. An introduction we are particularly proud of is the reveal of the inner staircase via the means of a glass gallery. Not only does this provide a talking point but it allows light to flood into a moribund stairwell and adds interest as the owners travel throughout the house, thus spreading the effect of the glorious gable frame into other parts of the building. Whilst the bulk of the extension has materials which suit tie in with the previously used construction, we have introduced anthracite profiles to all glazing and notably, the adopted suggestion of red cedar cladding to the rear to add relief to the overall texture and an opportunity for the building to change over time as it seasons so a soft silver. From our experience, we truly believe that extending your home can offer a great amount of potential and freedom to any circumstance you are looking to improve on. If you’d like to speak to us about making the best use of your available space and improving your home, we’d be delighted to discuss this with you further.

Begin Your Design Journey

Single Storey Rear Extension in Layer-de-la-Haye

Single Storey Rear Extension

The Final Designs

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