The Property
Hodges Close, Thurrock
This was a detached family house in Thurrock and was built after 1948, which meant that we were not able to benefit from Permitted Development. At our first visit, the property appeared large and looked as if it would have many rooms. In fact, there were only three bedrooms, with one en-suite, and a family bathroom. There was a garage, used only for storage.
Step One
The Brief
Our design brief was to create two additional bedrooms while staying within budget, a budget sensibly planned but with reasonable constraints. We suggested that a loft and roof extension would be minimally intrusive and the most cost-effective way to realise this. Our clients was clear that aesthetics were especially important – they always are to us too, so we knew we were on common ground.
Step Two
Our Solution
- To secure comfortable head height, the roof line was raised by 1m. And of course, our design for the dormers had to comply with local planning policies, whilst also being practical, to maximise useable space. We proposed four gable-pitched dormers in total; two each at the front and rear. To ensure a consistent and elegant appearance, they were designed to be in proportion to, and aligned with, the windows below.
- The entire roof structure and tile work were upgraded with new fascia boards to freshen up the building’s overall appearance. We feel that the choice of red roof tiles delivered a striking improvement and sets off the rest of the house well.
- A new staircase was created directly above the existing one to access the loft extension; it was designed to minimise disturbance to the existing rooms on the first floor.
- We were able to achieve two good sized bedrooms with a shower room. Large skylights were specified to not only benefit from natural light but to add to the feeling of space and extend head height. This is an effective design solution which is often overlooked.
- Our client was keen on setting up a home business, so we suggested converting the existing garage into a fully functioning beauty treatment suite, with a separate front entrance.
- The original three-bedroom house now benefits from an additional two bedrooms and a converted garage from which to run a business – all of which gained planning approval. The planning process required a lot of negotiating but the result was worth the wait.
- Sometimes the smallest changes can have the biggest impact. From the roof plan, to the front and rear elevations, clean symmetrical lines and pleasing proportions are paramount. Space was gained, facilities improved, and the aesthetics of the house enhanced.
Where do you provide architectural design services?
While Hodges Close is in Thurrock, Divi Design also provide architectural design services across all London boroughs.
We’ve completed projects throughout the capital, such as home extensions in Havering and transformative developments in Romford.
So whether you’re in Barnet, Greenwich, or any other area in London, we’re on hand to provide architectural design services.
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