FEATUREARABELLA YOUENSPHOTOGRAPH(MIXING ELEMENTS) BEN BLOSSOMJOHN DYER GRIMES,founder, Dyer Grimes
Architects, dyergrimesarchitects.com
MIXING ELEMENTS
Where outdoor space is at a premium, design an
extension that adds extra space indoors while also
making the most of the garden. This extension
(above) by Gruff uses the unusual sawtooth roof
line to create a covered external seating area
beside an outdoor fireplace. Making the fireplace a
visual focal point underlines the fluid connection
between indoors and out. Charred larch cladding
brings a contemporary feel to the design.“NEVER SAY NEVER WITH
A LISTED BUILDING –
THERE WILL BE A WAY
THROUGH, AS LONG AS
WHATEVER YOU’RE DOING
ULTIMATELY RESPECTS
THE HISTORIC FABRIC
OF THE BUILDING”
BRIDGE THE GAP
Not all extensions need to protrude out into the
garden; sometimes the internal flow of a house can
be immeasurably improved by linking two parts
together. Such designs – this oak-framed one (top)
is by Julius Bahn – can increase the circulation of
a house, which can be particularly awkward in an
older building that has been added to over the
centuries, while also creating a light-filled space
to enjoy the garden views.