Bracondale
Client: Private
Location: London Borough of Greenwich
Sector: Residential
The Client
We first met our wonderful client several years ago when he had just moved into this modest end-of-terrace property. Despite not having a background in construction, our client was incredibly brave and recognised a possible opportunity to extend the terrace and create an entirely new dwelling within the large, underutilized side garden.
The Brief
The original brief outlined two distinct objectives: the existing dwelling would be extended to the rear and fully renovated for rental purposes, while a new-build property would serve as the client’s personal residence. Each property’s requirements differed accordingly. The rental property needed a practical and neutral design to appeal to prospective tenants, whereas the new dwelling allowed for greater client input and personalisation.
Having lived in the existing house for several years before the commencement of works, the client had become increasingly concerned about issues like overheating and poor thermal performance. Addressing these concerns became a key aspect of the brief, with a focus on designing both properties to optimize heating and cooling. Careful consideration was also given to selecting materials that would enhance thermal comfort and overall energy efficiency.
Design
After a very long process of pre-application meetings with Greenwich the approved scheme was a contemporary response to the existing terrace. The siting of the proposed dwelling was to continue the same rhythm of the terrace whereby the main pitched massing sits pronounced with a smaller side outrigger. As part of the planning design requirements the overall width, height and pitch was to match the existing which created a set of constraints that were challenging and somewhat limiting. Our response was to reinterpret the original architecture but with a simplified design solution. The existing architecture has a banding of timber on one half of the main pitched massing. This language has been adapted on the proposed and a timber screen concealing a large full height window to the staircase has been implemented. As part of the planning discussions with Greenwich the side outrigger was to be single storey in order to maintain an open feel with the terrace and adjacent dwellings. This is to be completely clad in timber to allow it to sit discretely within the site. The proposed material palette is to create a strong dialogue with the existing but the use of a paler brick with a naturally weathered Douglas Fir timber creates a delicate contrast.
To future-proof the heating systems for both properties, the client opted to install air source heat pumps as the primary heating source, completely eliminating gas reliance—a commendable step toward sustainability. Additionally, the client selected triple-glazed windows and doors for the proposed designs, including replacing all rear windows in the existing house. This choice, combined with low G-value glass, will significantly mitigate overheating in both properties.
For the new dwelling, the design includes a double-height staircase space with a timber slatted privacy screen over the large window. This screen also functions as a brise soleil, effectively reducing overheating caused by low afternoon sunlight on this façade. Together, these measures represent a thoughtful approach to energy efficiency and climate responsiveness.