Side return extension & loft conversion - Walthamstow

Brief: Side Return and Loft Conversion

Budget: Undisclosed

Scope: Householder Planning Application & Building Regulations

The clients of the project bought this property in a poor state of repair. When they approached us they had a good idea of what they hoped to achieve and presented us with an extremely comprehensive ideas pack.

We developed design ideas that they had not previously considered to test their thinking. Ultimately we agreed that a refined design similar to their initial thoughts aligned the most closely with their needs however the exercise was invaluable in the decision making process.

We successfully gained planning permission for a 7 meter deep side return extension with a 3m eaves height. This is considerably higher than the local council are usually comfortable with however the property being an end of terrace and the neighbours external level being half a meter higher will have weighed in on this decision.

The rear elevation is a simple design. The door head was used as a datum to change from a stretcher brick bond to a soldier brick bond. The is a simple and cost effective way to add interest to an elevation. The rear doors are a good quality set with small frame which maximise the amount of glass.

Initially the clients wanted a large lantern over the dining & seating area of the extension. We convinced them that instead two smaller slot skylights that bring lighted into the darker areas of the room would be more appropriate. There was little need for more light next to the rear doors to the garden. The skylights also help subtly break up the room, defining the different uses of the space.