Gatti House

A Contemporary Extension Rooted in the Landscape

Set within the Hampshire countryside on the edge of the South Downs National Park, Gatti House is a contemporary extension that reimagines a historic family home for modern living. The design creates generous new spaces that strengthen the relationship between the house and its gardens while respecting the scale and character of the original building.

The proposal balances openness with privacy, creating light-filled living spaces that embrace their rural setting while providing the comfort and security expected of a contemporary family home.

Framing Views, Connecting Spaces

The extension reorganises the ground floor around a generous dining and living space that becomes the social heart of the home. Large corner sliding doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, opening the house towards the surrounding landscape and allowing family life to extend naturally into the garden.

A double-sided fireplace forms a subtle connection between the existing snug and the new dining space, linking old and new both physically and experientially while creating a warm focal point throughout the seasons.

On the first floor, carefully positioned new accommodation enjoys elevated views across the Hampshire countryside, bringing natural light deep into the home while enhancing the everyday experience of its occupants.

Materiality

The contemporary extension is wrapped in a rhythmic screen of vertical timber fins that introduces depth, texture and solar shading while responding to the colours and character of its rural setting. As the timber weathers naturally, the architecture will become increasingly integrated with the surrounding landscape.

Expansive glazing contrasts with the solidity of the timber cladding, creating bright, open interiors that frame carefully composed views while maintaining a refined and understated architectural expression.

Contemporary Living, Respectfully Designed

Rather than imitating the historic house, the extension establishes its own architectural identity through simple forms, restrained detailing and a carefully considered material palette. The result is a confident contemporary addition that complements the existing home while transforming the way it is experienced.

Gatti House demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can create flexible family spaces that feel intrinsically connected to their landscape without compromising the character of the original building.