Shenley Rear Extension
A house of two halves; this reworking of a traditional semi-detached cottage in Shenley (Hertsmere), creates a large open-plan kitchen, living and dining room for a sociable family.
Built in the early 20th century, the small windows and outdated conservatory of the original cottage, created a barrier between the internal accommodation and the breath-taking views over the Hertfordshire greenbelt.
The new extension sought to frame the picturesque views and bring much needed daylight into the home; providing a modern living experience, better suited to the daily life of the family.
Making use of the Permitted Development legislation, the rear extension projects outwards by six metres, almost doubling the footprint of the existing cottage. Private spaces such as the study, playroom and utility room are located in the original cottage, with its low ceilings and dark spaces.
A new hallway has been located in the centre of the house, connecting the original front entrance with the new extension and offering stunning views at the front of the house towards the rear garden and beyond to the Shenley countryside.
A balance was sought between bringing in maximum daylight and creating a functional rear elevation window arrangement; a window seat provides additional seating for the living room area; the large sliding doors in the kitchen offer level access to the future rear patio; A low-level side panoramic window offers views out to the dining area and rooflights are strategically located to bring daylight deep into the plan.
