HIDDEN AREAS
HIDDEN AREAS
2011 completion of a whole house refurbishment in Balham extensively enlarged the property and maximised use of natural light. From 3 bedrooms to 5, the house size was increased by just over 65%!
A side and rear extension at ground floor provided an open-plan kitchen/dining/family space whilst at first floor level, the existing bathroom was replaced and all existing bedrooms were redecorated, and a whole new second floor was created by removing much of the existing roof giving two additional bedrooms and a shower room.
Sliding/folding doors to the rear extension opened the elevation to the garden. Passive solar design ensures the south-facing property doesn’t overheat through addition of large areas of glass. A canopy reduces the potential overheating by limiting the amount of summer sunlight entering the house whilst allowing winter sun to enter when the sun is lower in the sky.
The first property for which Turner & Hoskins used secret doors, clever use of space and carving out hidden areas allows for greater storage and maximizing space. Purpose made joinery runs nearly the entire length of the party wall giving storage, study and seating areas. The kitchen (procured at a much reduced price) was designed with a continuous run of units and doors along one wall allowing for two ‘secret’ doors concealing a new toilet beneath the stairs, and a new utility room, which makes best use of the tapered space to the side of the house.
In line with the desire for white, light and minimalism, the clean lines and secret rooms make use of natural light with a roof light providing a sunny toilet facility.
The existing lounge was refurbished, the chimney opened up giving a new hearth and surround allowing a new wood-burning stove to be installed. Further heating beneath the oak flooring adds warmth throughout the ground floor.
Particularly successful, the new master bedroom at second floor level includes sliding/folding doors and a glass balustrade making virtually the whole external wall open to the outside resulting in much desired stunning tree-top views over London. The arrangement of the bed and use of bespoke joinery allows the views to be enjoyed from waking to slumber.
Now, recommissioned, Turner & Hoskins have been tasked with a new first floor extension with an all-glass oriel window to house a bed and in addition a separate permanent garden room/studio.
