Readers were drawn to accounts of a mint ice-cream-coloured extension to a Hampstead house and the upcycling of a dilapidated Victorian house into a modern brick villa
#1 Minty House, Hampstead, by Peter Morris Architects
It’s no surprise that this quirky and refreshing project caught readers’ attention over the summer. The mint ice-cream green colour and use of primary shapes in the design are cheery and evoke ‘those joyful childhood memories of play’, said architect Peter Morris. Exterior curves were fashioned from an ultra-light polystyrene-based imitation stone material, which delivered an immaculate fluted rear bay window at a low price. Inflation meant that costs were tight but alterations were made and the final result is a feast for the senses.
#2 Kings Road House, Wimbledon, by Matthew Giles Architects
How do you upcycle a dilapidated Victorian house into a sophisticated modern brick villa? Matthew Giles Architects may have just had the answer. Front, side and rear extensions replaced antiquated elements and created generous living spaces. A textured limewash process lightened the brickwork while traditional banding echoes nearby terraces. Tactical angles provide privacy from neighbours and direct views towards the garden. With such an all-encompassing transformation, it’s hard to imagine the ‘before’ photo!
#3 Simon House, Honor Oak, by Civic
The clear aims and modest flourishes of this extension appeal. ‘There was an oasis of useful winter sun outside not being used; just waiting to be let in,’ recalled architect Dan Jones. Much of the new floor area is covered by glazing and sliding aluminium windows line two sides, allowing daylight to passively heat the home while providing views of the vibrant garden. During warmer months, nearby leafy trees provide shade. Inside, an American cherry wood fascia and polished concrete floor are elegant and understated.
#4 Harpenden House, Hertfordshire, by Emil Eve Architects
Emil Eve Architects has a high bar when it comes to bespoke homes, but this renovation and extension of a worn Edwardian property is some of its finest work. Three undulating and angled volumes break up and animate a wide rear facade. Inside, references abound with sloped roof lights recreating the essence of calm Nordic light – ‘a nod to one of the owners’ Norwegian heritage’, practice co-founder Emma Perkin revealed. Sliding partitions, inspired by Japanese design, allow the ground floor to be opened or divided up as needed.
#5 Hackney House, London, by Draper Studio
Stone bricks have certainly intrigued readers this year, appearing both here and in our rundown of top Products stories. Hackney House configures the low-carbon blocks in an open weave pattern, adding character, depth and texture to a ground-floor extension without detracting from the much-loved garden. ‘It has prompted the studio to relearn what we do with stone’ reflected architect Adam Draper. Although there were issues with dimensional uniformity, precision will only improve and the studio is hoping that, in future projects, it can use the bricks in more structural ways.