projects » skylark berkshire

SKYLARK

Contemporary full-width rear extension to terraced property, Berkshire

Intriguing single-story contemporary extension, with wrap-down bespoke glazing.

CLIENT REQUIREMENT

The client wanted to take full advantage of permitted development rights to add a new kitchen and dining area to the rear of their home, utilising a limited garden space.

CHALLENGES

We needed to make the most of a small garden plot to create a spacious contemporary extension that maximised the living space without under-sizing the remaining outdoor area. Accordingly, we had to find a way to secure approval for an extension that was larger than generally accepted by planning.

Our
Approach

While a small, limited extension would have sufficed, we wanted to give our client not only a beautiful new kitchen and dining area but one that took full advantage of the restricted rear garden to create an airy and open atmosphere within the living space.

To do this, we created a simple minimalist design that extended the full width of the existing house boundaries. We made the most of natural light and the garden behind by incorporating roof lights. These wrapped down to provide diverse light sources and allow the light to play around the main kitchen space throughout the day. Glazing that overlooked the redesigned remaining garden area creates an impression of a merged interior and exterior space and an overall unified living experience.

To realise our vision for this larger-than-usual contemporary extension, we successfully pursued a strategy of obtaining permission using a lesser-known planning route known as The Larger Home Extensions Neighbour Consultation Scheme. This scheme allows for extensions larger than would normally be possible under Permitted Development Rights, provided a consultation with neighbours (following a set format) is undertaken first. The scheme runs until May 2019.

Learn more about the Permitted Development approach here.