Tamaras House

The alteration and addition to this modest Victorian era home has a confident, modern and mannered intervention. This project adopts what has become a desirable way for families to consider the many wonderful architectural possibilities when confronted with the opportunity to up-cycle original period homes to the modern era.

When skilled architects are commissioned for these modest alterations and additions, great results can be achieved as demonstrated here. Celebrating the old with sensitive and respectful modern additions can deliver real and immensely inspirational works.

Here the two halves of the home each sensitively address opposing surroundings; the street fronting original portion respectfully maintains the streetscape with no hint of the rear modern addition. The rear addition makes the most of opening up to the back private garden. On entering the original cottage and through to the rear addition, the transition is handled simply and subtly. Occasional pockets of natural light from above draw you through to the new addition.

The architect’s deliberate monochromatic and restrained palette has created a tranquil interior bathed in natural light. This combines to make the modest home a delight to occupy, evoking a sense comfort and well being. The verdant rear garden animates and invigorates the interior by its proximity and effortless transition from inside to outside.

Strategically angled rear walls on the upper level respond easily to the conditions of the site. The zig-zag rear profile effectively allows sun access to the southern neighbour. While the full height vertical metal operable louvres maintain sun and view control for the occupants within the new build, and privacy from the rear neighbour.

The angled walls along with the indispensable brave louvres are the outstanding elements that establish the defining character of the addition. The two elements furthermore inject a dual function. The neighbours gain from the elegant form and the bold graphics of the louvers, avoiding a bland intervention. The occupants enjoy the varying qualities of light created by the louvers enriching the interiors.

An exemplary project for the subtle way of dovetailing the new to the old, and the rear treatment provides a dignified build to the adjoining neighbours and is the real success of this home.

Sustainability

Adjustable louvres and external blinds have been carefully selected to allow the owners to manage the performance of the home during seasonal changes. Cross flow ventilation to all spaces was included. The face brickwork and refinished windows ensure minimum future maintenance.