Retrofit & Rear Extension – Norfolk Park

We were first approached by the client to replace their draughty and tired-looking lean-to conservatory with a thermally efficient extension that was to form a modern and communal kitchen/dining space, enhance light and views into the garden and visually unify the rear elevation.

Sustainability formed a crucial part of the client’s brief. As such, we worked carefully to develop a ground-floor plan that retained as much existing structure as possible, avoiding costly and environmentally damaging steels, while still satisfying all the key aspects of the brief. Retrofit was discussed from the early stages of the project, leading to the development of a whole house retrofit strategy in conjunction with the design proposals.

Part of this process involved the specification of build-ups for the extension that exceed the minimum requirements of building regulations, while also aiming to use natural building materials where possible and maximise lighting from natural sources.

3D renders formed an integral part of design development to explore different material options with the client. The agreed proposal combines brick, to complement the existing house and surrounding properties, with an insulated render on the existing extension to improve thermal efficiency—consistent with the environmentally-conscious brief.