Serviden Drive

+ Bromley, Kent

This project was born from our clients deciding it was better to invest in their existing home rather than moving and upscaling elsewhere. They loved the location, had a young family and ultimately wanted to create more family space. Their 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 both us and our clients were 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 small rear extension, spanning the full width of old and new. A garage storeroom was re-introduced to the front, and facilities such as a WC were relocated on the plan, releasing space elsewhere for a home office. Additionally, further space was allocated to being a; coat/shoe store, a utility room, laundry room, and then, at the heart of the home, a wonderful open-plan family space comprising kitchen, dining and lounge – all directly addressing the garden). A formal lounge was retained to the front of the house, creating a wealth of spaces for the family to enjoy.

Continuing our modern agenda, contrasting old and new, 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 collaboration afforded a large open plan arrangement to the rear of the home, unencumbered by structure.  The form, fronted in custom-made black stone tile, formed a squared archway, which in turn framed a larch clad subframe (and two distinct sliding door arrangements

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 where ever possible. Nothing seen more dramatically than with the large frameless roof light that features within the kitchen.

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 as well as a functional family home.

Photo Credit: Ricksouzaphoto.com