The White House

Extending a Modernist Landmark

The White House is a design proposal for a contemporary extension to a Grade II* listed 1930s modernist home in Surrey, originally designed by architect Amyas Connell. As one of the region's most significant examples of early Modernism, the house presented a rare opportunity to explore how contemporary architecture can respond to an important historic building without compromising its architectural integrity.

The brief called for a new open-plan kitchen, dining and living space to support modern family life, replacing an existing summer house while respecting the defining principles of the original design: light, openness and a close relationship with the landscape.

A Dialogue Between Old and New

Rather than imitate the existing architecture, the proposal establishes a clear distinction between the historic house and the contemporary addition. A lightweight frameless glazed link creates a respectful transition between the two, allowing the extension to read as a new architectural layer while preserving the identity of the original building.

The design explores how contrasting forms can coexist, creating a thoughtful dialogue between the clean geometry of Connell's architecture and a softer, more fluid contemporary intervention.

Architecture Defined by Light

Glass is the defining material of the proposal, preserving views from the original house by allowing uninterrupted sightlines through the new extension and into the surrounding gardens.

A gently curving glazed façade wraps the principal living space, introducing a contrasting geometry that reflects the landscape and changes with the light throughout the day. The transparency of the structure ensures the extension remains visually lightweight, allowing the historic building to retain its architectural prominence.

A Contemporary Interpretation of Modernism

The proposal explores how contemporary architecture can complement significant heritage assets without resorting to imitation. By prioritising light, transparency and carefully considered proportions, the design builds upon the principles that define the original house while expressing a confident architectural identity of its own.

The project reflects Adam Knibb Architects' approach to designing within sensitive historic settings - creating contemporary interventions that respect the past while responding to the needs of modern living.