The
form of the extension is derived from the existing story and a half dwelling
on the site.
The extension is positioned to the north of the existing dwelling within
the sloped rear garden area. Formally it is detached from the existing dwelling
by a single story glazed flat roofed box which doubles as a secondary means
of entrance. In plan form the extension has a deliberately casual relationship
with the existing dwelling in order to signify that an additive process has
been undertaken. Although contrary with local planning guidelines, since the
new extension does not blend seamlessly with the existing house, this is consistent
with the local rural pattern of agricultural development where structures are
added in accordance with functional necessity. This pattern is seen to have
value by means of its honest and rational expression of development. This interest
in typology is evident in a number of projects under development by NORD.
The
envelope of the building is treated in a homogeneous manner is order to reinforce
the notion of a uniform skin.
All
components walls, roof, windows and doors are pulled to the outer face
of the building envelope so that there is no hierarchy between elements.
There is an attempt to create a kind of architecture that is stripped of
articulation and expression and appears dumb and generic in it’s
formal language.
As the site rises to the north the building form is stepped down in the landscape.
A retaining wall wraps round the extension on three sides to create a strong
sense of protection and enclosure.
Internally there is a clear contrast between the two floors. On the lower level
the ceiling level is deliberately below that which we would expect and the
primary aspect is out to the brick enclosed courtyard spaces to the north and
west. Consequently there is a sense of a flat interior space from which the
adjacent external space has been extended, this notion is reinforced by the
floor treatment which is consistent throughout interior and exterior spaces.
