Cheadle Architects has vast expertise in adding an extra dimension to older properties, with many clients not wanting their extension to compromise the vintage look of the building.
A recent project we undertook was a small kitchen extension on a gorgeous period mid-terrace Victorian townhouse in Hale. This property had lovely existing detail, with the owners having a style around how they lived and furnished the property. The task for Cheadle Architects was to maintain the elements whilst playing with a new contemporary and quirky kitchen extension, thinking about how efficiently we could make the space work for what was to become a new addition to the family.
Planning
In our consultation with the client, we instantly understood that this would be a very tight deadline. The couple were imminently expecting a child and the turnaround had to be within four weeks.
We worked with the client to give various options and ideas for the new layout potential, exploring options between flat, sloped and pitched roofs, how to create natural light in the space and all pros and cons of each design. Our emphasis was on how this space would be practical and futureproof with the arrival of a young child. We had restrictions in that it was a classy Victorian property with very high ceilings, but we were all happy that we could meet the tight timeline with the agreed plan.
Work
The plan for the home was a very small extension, adding only 5m² whilst knocking through to the dining area and opening the space up to the living room area. This plan would allow for a greater sense of play and movement and add greater flexibility in how the space could be used.
When the builders dug out the existing kitchen floor, the original foundation was revealed to be helpfully deep. We partly raised the floor to bring the insulation up to the current regulations and keep the space warmer. We discussed the potential to remove steps that transitioned between the living area and the kitchen, which the client decided they wanted to keep – as well as the original fireplace and traditional stove features.
The 5m² doubled the size of the kitchen and allowed for a spacious dining area, incorporating an industrial exposed brickwork wall. Following a consultation with our architect, the kitchen beams were exposed to showcase an additional kitchen feature and roof lighting based on visuals and images and discussions on the mood of the room.
The mix of rustic and industrial finishes worked well with the clean lines of the contemporary kitchen, the new Critall-style glazing and doors complimented the existing timber framed sliding sash bay window on opposite ends of the house, creating added levels of luxury to the space.
The finished result is a fabulous small extension that created equal parts small family living and entertaining space with the added dual aspect.
Satisfaction
The client had previously had a basement and loft conversion before this extension, but both felt that their regular day-to-day living space missed something. With this project, even the tiniest of extensions filled that missing piece of their home.
Cheadle Architects love the challenge of working with confined spaces and opening up the space into something perfect for small families and occasions to entertain. If you would like something similar for your property, contact Cheadle Architects today.
