Rear Extension with Charred Timber Cladding and Open-Plan Living

The primary aim of this project was to create a large, light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space with a strong visual and spatial connection to the property's mature rear garden.

We designed a full-width rear extension that combined the original kitchen and living room, while adding a dedicated dining space and utility area. To enhance flow across the entire ground floor, we connected the new rear space to the front drawing room via double doors, ensuring light and movement from front to back. The former dining room at the front was converted into a functional home study.

Given the garden’s mature character and the landscape designer’s concept, we focused on using natural, tactile materials to create a seamless transition between indoors and out. The rear façade features charred Accoya timber cladding, chosen for its durability and distinct texture, which is enhanced by the charring process. Varying plank widths were used to frame the pivot door, now the main access point to the garden, adding rhythm and subtle detailing to the elevation.

While the focus was on the rear extension, we also undertook targeted refurbishment and reconfiguration works on the upper floors to improve the overall layout and usability.