Play Everywhere
A playful and sensitive addition to a historic semi-detached home in Surrey.
The project demonstrates the power of partnership and collaboration. Our clients achieved a significant addition to their historic semi-detached, semi-rural home by partnering with their neighbours through the planning process. Works for both properties were then delivered by locally based studio Delve demonstrating the richness and quality that comes through thoughtful and collaborative working.
Our clients wanted an addition that was sensitive in form and character to the existing house. Internally they wanted an open, welcoming space where their children would feel empowered to play anywhere. And they wanted a design and materials that could blur the boundary between the house and the garden.
The main body of the addition is indistinguishable from what was there thanks to the co- ordinated response with neighbours. Beyond this, each side has its own distinct character reflecting the families that live in them. On this side of the house, a new side addition is defined by warm exposed timber structure and a combination of glazing and a red cladding board that complements the red brick of the original parts of the house.
Playful and carefully placed openings frame views of the large garden. The rhythmic timber glazing creates a lightness to the new interventions and also gathers light from the morning sun. At the end of the kitchen space is an arched picture window framing views of the garden and offering a restful moment with a window seat so someone can read while someone else cooks. The arch references original windows at the front of the house.
Nimtim secured planning permission for this half of the semi detached house co- ordinated with the adjoining neighbour’s architects Delve. Delve, based locally, then delivered the project under a single contract to completion bringing value and efficiency for both families. The outcome is a carefully considered and beautifully finished new home that sits harmoniously with its neighbour. Things are better when we do them together.
