Art Deco House
Cambridge
This property was a gift to work on, as the 1930s is one my favourite periods in architecture. My client had bought the house from its architect owner. The initial brief was to remove a previous single-storey side extension and design a new side and rear extension. Through our discussions it became clear that the family was uncomfortable with the layout of the house, which didn’t suit their needs. My conceptual designs showed how the spaces could be made to flow – and included the option of building the rear extension over two storeys, providing additional bedrooms and bathrooms. The ground floor layout also set aside space for a music
room, which had emerged as a family priority. Art Deco and the Bauhaus movement drew inspiration from the age’s advances in travel and industrialisation. Hence, my idea for an ‘ocean-liner’ curved extension. This was combined with suntrap wraparound windows and a castellated main entrance, which was turned through 90 degrees. The conceptual sketch drew gasps of surprise, and second thoughts, before my delighted client decided that the first-floor extension should be curved as well. Bespoke Crittall
steel windows completed the sensitive modernisation. The local planning authority was also pleased to see the charm and integrity of this 1934 property respected and celebrated, and it fully supported the application.
Project Value: £330,000
Total Floor Area: 186 sqm
Location: Cambridge
Services Provided: Planning & Building Control Drawings
RIBA Stages: 0 - 3