Serviden Drive

This project was born from our client's decision to invest in their existing home rather than moving elsewhere. They love the location, had a young family and if they could create more family space it would be perfect.

This modern ‘character’ home sits within a Conservation Area, where our planning journey required careful negotiations with the local authority. From our initial discussions on brief, it was clear we were all aligned. The project included re-constructing an existing linked side garage and an associated rear side kitchen extension. However, this was to be enhanced with a modest rear extension, spanning the full width of old and new.

A storeroom was re-introduced at the front, with the Wc relocated, releasing space for the introduction of a home office. Further space allowed for a coat & shoe store, plus a utility and laundry room. To the rear, we created a wonderful open-plan family space, comprising a kitchen, dining and lounge, all directly addressing the garden. A formal lounge was retained at the front of the house, creating a wealth of spaces for the family to enjoy.

We developed a design that embraced natural light and housed this within a simple and modern form. A small extension to the rear and some incredibly clever structural works afforded a large open-plan arrangement. The form, fronted in bespoke black concrete tile, formed a squared surround, with inset larch-cladding housing two large pairs of glazed sliding doors.

Collaborating with our clients on the material palette was a brilliantly smooth process. The use of birch ply is a common theme throughout the project, and with RHJB’s involvement with both the main building design and interior design, we were able to propose a simple complementary palette of colours and materials. Spanning from the handmade kitchen, utility and larder units to the lounge media suite and fitted furniture within the study – all working in harmony and conveying a sense of consideration throughout the house. White walls and Crittall-style glazed doors all serve to promote connection and welcome natural daylight wherever possible.

We are thrilled to have received such glowing feedback from our clients. They have revelled in the open-plan space and are delighted at how it has brought their family together; from breakfast to dinner, and from movie nights to entertaining friends. This project has delivered a striking talking point around a functional family home.