Maidenhead, Berkshire.
A contemporary Thames-side home that pairs a restrained, elegant aesthetic with a resilient structural design.
What was the client’s brief?
Riverside plots often provide the most charming of new build settings, even when they require the application of a great deal of vision. Thankfully, our client was able to see beyond the uninspiring 1960s house that occupied an extraordinary setting on the banks of the Thames, imagining instead an unapologetically modern house with ‘real architectural merit’ that would transform the site and capitalise on the stunning views. The brief stipulated the incorporation of sustainable features and technologies that would create a low-impact, energy-efficient home for current and future occupants to enjoy.
What are we doing?
We designed a pared-back, two-storey home that uses a restrained palette of timber, glass and render to elegant effect, creating a unique property that nevertheless sits happily alongside its neighbours. The orientation of the house makes full use of the available light which floods into the double-height spaces via the large expanses of glazing and roof lights that are a feature of its design. Balconies, stairs and terraces interrupt the rectilinear form, creating visual interest and extending the living areas into the gardens at the rear which track towards the river beyond.
What challenges did we need to overcome?
Among the many planning and environmental constraints connected with developing a contemporary new build in an established residential setting were those relating to its situation within a high flood risk zone. The resulting design saw the structure elevated over piled foundations to provide protection against any possible future flooding. Because the site lies in a conservation area, we also had to take great care to design a home that, although ultra-modern in style, would respect and compliment the character of the neighbouring buildings. A pre-application was undertaken to ensure our vision was aligned with local authority guidelines.
What is the finished design?
The house is currently awaiting planning permission. At the front, the understated design achieves a thoroughly contemporary aesthetic, without revealing too much about the space within – the façade also cleverly conceals the six garage spaces that were a feature of the original building and which were a prescribed element of the new structure. The design seamlessly integrates a number of sustainable technologies, including a rainwater harvesting system, PV panels, air source heat pumps and exceptional levels of insulation to ensure this family home is as practical as it is visually captivating.
Renovations.
We’ve helped transform many wonderful living spaces through renovations and extensions over the years.
Whether you’re looking for a contemporary glass addition, a complete makeover for a period Victorian or Edwardian property, internal remodelling options for houses built more recently, or a complete restoration of a derelict building, we’ll be able to help.
Using our 3D design process, you can explore a range of alterations before embarking on the more detailed phase of your renovation or extension.
Listed Properties.
With our wealth of experience working on listed and heritage properties across London and the South East, HollandGreen has successfully negotiated consents with Local Authority Conservation Officers and with Historic England for a wide range of renovation and extension planning requests.
We work with Specialist Heritage Consultants, and Archaeologists to provide detailed assessments of historic buildings, and have gained approval for ambitious, but sympathetic alterations to properties of historic interest, including those Grade ii* which fall within the top 3% of protected properties in the UK.
New Builds.
For many people the prospect of building their own home is the ultimate dream. At HollandGreen, we’re proud of the fact that we have helped a number of people achieve this dream.
If you are fortunate enough to have a plot of land that has the potential to be built on, or a house that you would like to knock down and start again with a blank piece of paper, we’d love to help.
We can advise on likely planning implications to help establish the feasibility of your project. Our exciting design journey will help you navigate through planning, choosing your builder, and delivering your dream new home.
Barn Conversions.
Barn conversions offer the perfect opportunity to create a unique countryside home, packed with character. At HollandGreen, we’ve had extensive experience in converting existing agricultural buildings into residential dwellings, in accordance to the recent changes to ‘Class Q’ Permitted Development Rights.
From traditional listed stone walled buildings with slate roofing, to more modern metal clad farm sheds for the modern, industrial look, you can create luxurious country living perfect for you. What a great opportunity to create a characterful family home that’s sympathetic to its rural setting, and generally larger in volume and scale than a modern build.
Conservation Areas.
Many properties fall within locations specified as a Conservation Area or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and we have specific experience working with planning departments across London, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.
Please do get in touch if you have any specific questions around what can be possible within a Conservation Area, even if you are just at the early stage of purchasing the property.
Luxury Basements & Pools.
If you’re battling to add space to your property, creating a basement storey can provide the perfect option to add significant living space, without having to move.
With basements closer to the main living areas than lofts, there is greater flexibility in terms of use, from home cinemas, wine cellars and playrooms, to office spaces, personal gyms and swimming pools.
To find out whether adding a basement to your property will add value to your house, we recommend seeking advice from your local estate agents. Talk to us about Permitted Development Rights, as basement extensions are often possible, if a cellar space already exists.
Luxury Kitchens & Lofts.
The way people use their living space is changing. We find that for most of our clients, the kitchen is now the hub of the modern home, and we’re proud that we’ve become known for our inventive and aspirational kitchen extensions.
We’ve helped hundreds of home owners across London and the South East create open, bright and contemporary kitchen living spaces that combine cooking, dining and living within one social and inviting area.
We’re also known for our carefully considered, aesthetically pleasing loft extensions that both increase living space and add a wonderful new aspect to your home.
- Renovations
- Listed Properties
- New Builds
- Barn Conversions
- Conservation Areas
- Luxury Basements & Pools
- Luxury Kitchens & Lofts