Beyond Barriers

We were appointed to design an additional first-floor wing to this 1950s house in Hendon. The new wing, containing a new master bedroom, master en-suite and walk-in wardrobe, has become a retreat for busy parents.

One of the key design requirements identified at the outset of the project was that the property, and any new additions, needed to be fully accessible to create an inclusive house for the client’s son who uses a wheelchair.

The term “Barrier-Free Design” was a phrase coined by the client during the early stages of the project. The aim was to maintain accessible wheelchairs routes throughout the carefully considered placement of doorways and furniture.

A level threshold to the new extension was achieved by adding a secret door from an existing bedroom cupboard into the wardrobe avoided two flights of stairs and gave access to the lift between the ground and the first floor.

Through design development, early 3D models, and discussions with the client we were able to explore and test the idea of making the master bedroom a double-height space, making the most of the new roof extension. Rooflights help to accentuate the height of the space whilst also bringing in more light in. A neutral array of greys, that vary in texture, in addition to a carefully selected material palette help to achieve a luxurious feel that the client desired. The new master en-suite is linked to the bedroom through a walk-in wardrobe. Bianco venato marble is used throughout the master ensuite, including the walls, and floor as well as the bespoke vanity unit built in Italy.

Elsewhere in the property, the house received a full internal refurbishment including a new office that repurposed an underused living space.
Another smaller extension was added to the rear of the property creating a new en-suite for the family's teenage daughter.

The existing ground floor WC was enlarged and made accessible and a new skylight was added that brought much-needed light into the entrance.

The clients commented: "Working with Amos and his associate Joseph was a complete blessing. The result, is a completed project, on time which significantly surpassed our expectations. The designs were inspired and they project managed the project from start to finish. They took control and ensured all was done as and when expected. They are extremely talented, committed and responsive at all times. We cannot recommend them highly enough."