An L-shaped extension replaces a dated, underperforming 1990s conservatory. The new structure form plays as important a role outdoors as it does indoors, separating the steeply terraced garden into three distinct garden rooms. To the east, it creates a temperate sunken courtyard, while to the west; a lower terrace for soft wild grasses, continuing the wildflower field beyond. Finally, to the north, it offers an espalier wall to a small orchard and kitchen garden.
Inside the modest set of crafted timber-framed spaces form a semi- open plan kitchen, living and reading room. Each area enjoys a sense of privacy, achieved either through subtle angles in the floor plan or, in the case of the dining and reading room, a chimney that mediates between the interior and exterior. Architecturally the extension is overtly referential, drawing inspiration from Edwin Lutyens’ many extensions to historic houses, including Great Dixter.
View from the fields, film photo, Michael Dillon/ Rory Gaylor
Development ground floor plan, layout paper
Interior dining and reading room, photo, Rory Gaylor
Form and massing model, 1:200, card
View from the kitchen garden, film photo, Michael Dillon/ Rory Gaylor
Chimney development sketch, paper
View in through the extension, photo, Rory Gaylor
Corner window and pivot door, photo, Rory Gaylor
Garden reading room, photo, Rory Gaylor
Frame assembly layout, paper
Offset timber frame support, progress photo
Dining Interior view, photo, Rory Gaylor
Form and massing model, 1:200, card
Extension in construction, photo, Rory Gaylor
Top lit dining room, photo, Rory Gaylor
View from the fields, film photo, Michael Dillon/ Rory Gaylor