Bringing light and elegance to Denmead: A refined Home extension
From Vision to Reality: Redefining Living Space
When our client in Denmead approached us with a desire to enhance his home, he envisioned a relaxing, light-filled space that would allow him to enjoy the pleasures of his garden in comfort.
Although he had an existing conservatory, it would get too hot in summer and too chilly in winter, making it difficult to enjoy his gardening comfortably and creating an atmosphere unfit for many plants and flowers.
The conservatory was also constructed of uPVC, which becomes discoloured and unsightly as it ages, and full glazing, meaning the less attractive parts of the garden (like the side used for storing gardening equipment), were also on show.
The goal was to replace the existing conservatory with a fresh, thoughtfully designed orangery-style extension that would:
- offer optimal thermal control for plants,
- provide a place to relax and enjoy the outside regardless of the weather and
- create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living.
With this vision in mind, we developed a design that combined practical considerations with an elegant architectural style, resulting in a space that’s as inviting as it is functional.
Designing with Purpose: Merging Style and Functionality
Our clients sought an extension that would:
- Maximise natural light to create a bright and uplifting environment.
- Offer a spacious, flexible area for relaxation, gardening, and social gathering.
- Complement the existing traditional-cum-modern architecture, blending seamlessly with the home’s character.
Our solution was to introduce a box-shaped brick design that delivers simplicity with a touch of refinement. The clean lines of this structure balance practicality with style, while a carefully designed dentil course adds subtle texture and depth to the brickwork, providing a timeless yet contemporary finish.
To flood the space with light, we incorporated a striking roof lantern above the extension, drawing natural brightness into both the new extension and the adjoining kitchen and lounge areas. This feature transforms the space, enhancing well-being while giving the room an open, airy feel. We also opted for under-lighting to ensure a cosy atmosphere for night-time relaxation.
Creating Connections: Blending Indoors and Outdoors
Emphasising indoor-outdoor flow, we proposed the addition of bifold doors that fully open to create a smooth transition between the extension and the garden. This feature not only enhances the sense of space but also invites fresh air and natural beauty into the heart of the home, perfect for summer entertaining or peaceful morning coffee moments.
Overcoming Challenges: Practical Solutions for a Seamless Build
During our preliminary assessment, we thoroughly reviewed drainage and sewer locations. Fortunately, the only system found was a redundant private sewage system, so we could proceed with the design confidently. This ensured we could focus on delivering a design that balances creative ambition with practical execution.
While our initial design explored a cantilevered structure, we refined our approach to achieve a more cohesive aesthetic. The resulting design focuses on clean, defined lines and traditional brickwork, enriched with detailed craftsmanship for a polished finish. We opted for a parapet roof with coping stone details for a sleeker, less invasive drainage solution and to ensure optimal durability of the whole orangery.
Bringing the Vision to Life: A New Standard for Home Living
The completed extension is a testament to how thoughtful design can redefine a living space. By blending contemporary elements (roof lanterns, bi-fold doors) with classic detailing (robust brickwork), we’ve created a modern and timeless home.
The amalgamation of the roof lantern and large glazing floods the space with natural light, promoting a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the quality of daily life and provides the best conditions for indoor planting.
Adding frosted glazing on the side elevations also means that any less desirable views, such as gardening tools or storage, won’t ruin the garden’s beauty.
Our clients can now enjoy a spacious, versatile environment that encourages relaxation, social gatherings, and personal hobbies. The improved indoor-outdoor connection makes spending time in the garden effortless, transforming his home into a perfect sanctuary.
