This project involved a deep retrofit and extension of an existing historic Regency style end of terrace to make a modern, energy efficient family home. Previous alterations and extensions since its original construction made for small, dark rooms and convoluted circulation.

The addition of a modest extension, set back from the existing house across two new courtyards, is an adaptation which allows both the existing house to breathe, and family life to extend out in a series of gently choreographed and characterful spaces, framing and leading to the garden beyond.

A traditional palette of materials was used to build the extension. Silica sand in the limewash applied to the regular module of brick creates a gentle texture which captures the coastal light playfully. Along with lead capping and timber cladding the materials chosen were intended to combine to form gentle and organic external elevations animated by natural texture and tone.

Architecture and interior design are considered as one, choreographed as a series of connected spaces moving from old to new, each with its own particular spatial and light qualities, and with a shared material language and a special connection to the landscape beyond. Deep timber linings mark out the transitions between spaces.

Designed to maximise natural light and ventilation to all rooms in the house, PV Panels to the roofs ensure a renewable energy source and other improvements include provision of a heat pump for space and water heating and a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system.