Exceptional Extensions
Similar to many desirable but expensive places to live, London is a big city full of small houses. Building extensions is a popular way to expand living space - just look the proliferation of kitchen and loft extensions to Victorian terraced houses all over the city. However, if the property in question is a small but handsome townhouse in a posh part of town, a cookie-cutter extension just won't do. Luckily for the homeowners, the architects at Archi-tectonics came up with a stylish and considered design which elevates this extension to another level.
The architects created an extra floor on top of the building, in addition to a sideways extension of the existing first floor which hovers above the parking space. The new top floor hosts an open plan kitchen dining room, where floor-to-ceiling glass doors slide open to a bijou balcony for a taste of indoor-outdoor living. The roof is lined with solar panels, generating enough electricity to power the heat pump and to charge the car. A swirling spiral staircase forms the spine of the home, linking the new and old spaces whilst acting as a dramatic focal point in its own right.
The internal areas are airy and spacious, with an array of windows and skylights bringing in plenty of light. The principal bedroom is a masterpiece of understated elegance. Built-in shelving in dark wood teams well with the raw brick wall behind the bed. There is a generous walk-in closet concealed behind slatted wood sliding doors, a neat design feature which adds delicacy and interest. The bathrooms and kitchen are sleek and refined, with focus on contrasting textures and opulent finishes.
Granted, not every house is blessed with the location and space of this exceptional townhouse, but elements of great design - light, quality materials, space that feel dynamic and sculptural - are applicable everywhere. And not a cookie-cutter in sight.
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Archi-tectonicsProduct Inspiration
Sleek and elegant furniture will go wonderfully well in this beautifully refined townhouse. Try the Mr Loveland Sofa from Moroso, the Talk Armchair from Mogg and the Paloma Center Table from Collector.
We love the stylishly sculptural glass lights seen throughout the house. For similar try the Dusk Dawn Suspension Light from Ghidini 1961, the Liuku Suspension Light from Mater and the Jefferson Suspension Light from Lodes.
Add some colour and interest with accessories such as the Mirallmar Mirror from BD, the Interstice Column Vase from Atelier Polyhedre and the Zenobio Coat Rack from Formae.
