A new sunken kitchen, lit from above by a three meter long rooflight, flows into the new extension. The split level creates a welcome division between the cosy living space and practical, double height kitchen.
Douglas Fir House
Shoehorned into the back of a beautiful Edwardian terraced property, the existing studio apartment was entirely unloved and underwhelming. However, there was opportunity in its ‘good bones’ and the abundant, overgrown private garden.
From the outset, the extension was viewed as a single piece of cabinetry crafted out of a single material - Canadian Douglas fir. The structural frame, doors, windows, cladding and internal joinery were all made from this single material. Selected for its robustness, stability and strength over other softwoods, this enabled the design team to push the limits of timber construction.
The very highest levels of carpentry were achieved with the extension being entirely prefabricated and erected in workshop conditions by the highly skilled team of carpenters in Devon.
Every element of the project was designed with an attention to detail - whether it is how the roof rafters are traditionally jointed to the timber ring beam or how the secret pocket door seamlessly slides and connects into the bespoke window frames.
The entire thermal envelope has been upgraded with high performance double glazing and natural wood fibre insulation, chosen for its breathability and acoustic and thermal properties. MVHR provides fresh, filtered air throughout the property. This all contributes to the apartment's low energy consumption, calculated at just 1.3 tonnes of CO2 per year.
Winner Wood Awards Small Project 2022
Longlisted Dezeen Award 2022
Longlisted Don't Move! Improve Award 2022