Surrey House

Adam Knibb Architects' Masterful Extension: Seamlessly Merging Old and New

In a quest to harmonize modern living with historical architecture, Adam Knibb Architects embarked on the ambitious task of designing an extension for an early 20th-century house. The objective was clear: to optimize the existing layout and create additional spaces that the original house lacked, while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. The result is an architectural masterpiece that envelops the eastern and southern facades, blending old-world charm with contemporary elegance.

Open-Plan Living: A Seamless Flow

The reimagined layout offers the clients an expansive open-plan living area that seamlessly integrates a playroom, living room, and kitchen/dining area into one cohesive space. This design not only maximizes the available square footage but also enhances the flow of daily activities, making it ideal for a modern family. Large-format glazing provides stunning views of the South Downs, creating a visual continuity between the indoors and the surrounding natural landscape.

Connection to Nature: Embracing the Outdoors

One of the defining features of the extension is its strong connection to the outdoor environment. Sliding doors effortlessly link the internal spaces to the garden, encouraging fluid movement between the two. The hard landscaping around the house acts as a buffer zone, creating a harmonious transition from the interior to the exterior. Whether the family is dining, playing, or relaxing, the seamless integration with the outdoors enhances their living experience.

Architectural Harmony: Old Meets New

The first-floor extension mirrors the existing gable, with a timber-clad link situated behind it to maintain a clear hierarchy between the old and the new. This thoughtful design choice preserves the architectural integrity of the original house while introducing a contemporary element that enhances its functionality. The use of vertical timber cladding was informed by the surrounding woodland context, ensuring that the extension blends perfectly into the landscape.

Natural Light and Solar Gain: Bright and Inviting Spaces

Ample natural light floods the interior spaces, thanks to the large areas of glazing and strategically placed skylights. These elements not only brighten the living areas but also provide significant solar gain, making the house more energy-efficient. The abundance of natural light creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall sense of well-being for the occupants.

A Sanctuary of Modern Living

The new extension by Adam Knibb Architects is far more than just an addition to a house. It is a sanctuary that meets the evolving needs of a modern family while respecting the historical essence of the original structure. The project successfully brings together open-plan living, seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity, and an abundance of natural light to create a harmonious living environment.

Overcoming Challenges: Building During a Pandemic

Completing the project during the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges. Delays in obtaining materials and other logistical issues tested the resilience of both the architects and the contractors. However, their commitment to the project and to the clients' vision ensured that the extension was completed to the highest standards, despite these unprecedented obstacles.

Material Choices: Aesthetic and Functional Excellence

The choice of materials played a crucial role in the success of the project. Exposed timber rafters create clever shelving screens, functioning both as open storage and permeable room dividers. This innovative solution maintains the connection between the sitting area and kitchen while providing practical storage options. The rafters, made from strong structural steel with oak cladding, balance and anchor the room with their darker color, adding a touch of sophistication to the space.

Enhancing Well-being: A Home for the Future

The architectural solutions developed for this extension go beyond merely adding space. They significantly enhance the occupants' sense of well-being, offering beautiful visuals and a physical connection to the outdoor space. From the moment you enter the front door, calming views of the garden invite you to venture further into the home. This design philosophy not only enriches the living experience but also fosters a deeper connection to nature.

The Impact of Thoughtful Design

The extension has had a transformative impact on the entire house. "When our son looks out of his window on the first floor, he sees a beautiful green roof that merges with the garden," says the client. This thoughtful design element encourages biodiversity and collects rainwater, making the house more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Adam Knibb Architects have created a timeless extension that marries the best of historical architecture with modern design principles. The project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful, innovative design in enhancing both the functionality and beauty of a home. It is a space where a growing family can thrive, today and into the future.