Summers House

A detached property dating back to the 1930s, Summers House has undergone various alterations and extensions over the years resulting in a fragmented floor plan that no longer served the needs of modern family life.  The vision was to seamlessly blend traditional architectural elements with contemporary design, providing a home that meets the demands of 21st-century living.

The original structure has been preserved and enhanced through sensitive alterations, ensuring the house retains its character while offering the comfort and utility expected in a contemporary family home. Key to this approach is the replacement of existing, inappropriate modern windows with new flush timber casement windows, restoring the building's traditional aesthetic.

A new entrance extension redefines the principal elevation of the house, providing a more coherent facade. This extension carefully incorporates traditional materials, such as flint, brickwork quoins, and clay tiles, all of which complement the existing 1930s architecture and strengthen the home's historical character.

The centerpiece of the project is the new side and rear extension, which offers a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. The extension is designed to appear traditional from the street-facing facade, maintaining harmony with the original building. However, the rear elevation introduces a contemporary design that opens up to a spacious, light-filled kitchen, dining, and family room. This open-plan area is designed to foster a strong connection with the garden and outdoor living spaces.

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A key feature of the extension is the use of Dekton, a high-performance surface material that creates a striking chamfered facade. The material’s sleek, modern appearance contrasts with but complements the traditional elements, bridging the gap between old and new. The juxtaposition of these materials creates an architectural dialogue that speaks to both heritage and innovation, providing a home suited for modern living while respecting its history.

The new extension leads directly into beautifully landscaped gardens, extending the living space outdoors. A matching pool house, designed with the same materials and aesthetic as the house, completes the setting, creating a spectacular environment for both relaxation and entertainment. The pool house and gardens form a cohesive and visually striking outdoor living space that enhances the overall atmosphere of the home.

In addition to the architectural enhancements, the design incorporates sustainable elements to ensure the house is energy-efficient and adaptable for future generations. The careful choice of materials, the introduction of energy-efficient windows, and the open-plan layout contribute to creating a home that is both comfortable and environmentally conscious.

The Summers House renovation and extension transforms an outdated property into a modern, functional family home that retains its charm and character. By blending traditional and contemporary elements, the project creates a dynamic living space that is both timeless and forward-thinking. The result is a spectacular home set within a beautiful landscape, offering a unique blend of heritage and innovation for the 21st century.

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