THE PROJECT

This Victorian house had remained largely unchanged for many years before our clients purchased it with the ambition of transforming it into a contemporary home while retaining the character of the original property.

The project centred on the design and construction of a rear house extension, alongside internal alterations that would allow the ground floor to function as a modern open-plan living space.

Our architecture team was appointed to review the property and develop a design that would maximise natural light, improve the internal layout and introduce high-quality architectural detailing throughout the extension.

Taking Over the Project

This project was originally started under a design proposal prepared by another architectural designer. However, as the scheme progressed it became clear that the design had not fully resolved several spatial and technical constraints within the property.

Our architecture team was therefore appointed to review the existing proposals and redesign the rear house extension to create a more coherent architectural solution.

One of the key technical challenges related to the roof construction of the extension. The previous design could not achieve a continuous flat ceiling internally because the structural depth and insulation build-up had not been properly coordinated.

The roof construction was therefore completely reworked to resolve these issues. By carefully coordinating the structural design, insulation requirements and rooflight integration, we were able to achieve a clean, uninterrupted flat ceiling internally, which significantly improved the quality of the internal space.

This redesign ensured the extension met modern building regulation requirements while delivering a much more refined architectural outcome.

Rear Extension Design

The rear house extension was designed to transform the previously disconnected kitchen and dining spaces into a generous open-plan kitchen and living environment that now forms the social heart of the home.

A large rooflight positioned centrally within the extension introduces significant natural light into the space, helping daylight penetrate deep into the original Victorian property.

Full-height Crittall glazing provides a strong visual connection between the interior and the garden while maintaining the refined industrial aesthetic chosen for the project.

The extension also incorporates a bespoke kitchen by Roundhouse Design, known for its high-quality contemporary kitchens. The kitchen was designed to sit comfortably within the architectural space, combining minimalist cabinetry with carefully integrated appliances and storage.

The interior material palette was selected to complement the architectural language of the extension. A chevron-pattern engineered timber floor runs throughout the space, adding warmth and texture while providing visual continuity between the original house and the new extension.

The use of exposed brickwork, contemporary joinery and carefully detailed glazing elements helps balance the historic character of the Victorian property with the modern architectural intervention.

Project Outcome

The completed rear house extension has transformed the ground floor of the property into a bright and functional open-plan living space that better reflects the way the clients live today.

The redesigned roof construction allowed the extension to achieve the uninterrupted flat ceiling that had not been possible in the original scheme, resulting in a much cleaner architectural interior.

The combination of the Roundhouse kitchen, Crittall-style glazing and chevron engineered timber flooring creates a high-quality interior that balances modern design with the character of the original house.

The project demonstrates how a carefully considered rear house extension can significantly enhance both the functionality and architectural quality of a Victorian home while respecting its heritage.

Planning and Technical Design

Rear house extensions often fall within permitted development rights, but thoughtful architectural design remains essential to ensure the extension integrates well with the existing property and surrounding context.

Our architecture team developed the design, planning drawings and technical information required to deliver a high-quality construction outcome.

Considering a Rear House Extension?

If you are planning a rear house extension and want to explore how your home could be transformed through thoughtful architectural design, our architecture team can guide you through every stage of the process.

From concept design and planning permission through to technical drawings and construction support, we help ensure that every aspect of the project is carefully considered and professionally delivered.

Contact our architecture team today to discuss your rear house extension project.

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