Whittaker Parsons transforms a dark terraced Townhouse into a sustainable haven
Their design ethos revolves around finding an equilibrium between innovation and preservation. In the Interlocking House, they meticulously balanced the extension’s footprint, ensuring minimal intrusion into the garden while maximising the infusion of natural light through carefully crafted pitched volumes and generous skylights.
Whittaker Parsons, renowned for their innovative architectural designs, have seamlessly married aesthetics with functionality in their recent project: transforming and extending a dated, five-bedroom terraced townhouse nestled in the heart of a Hackney Conservation Area. Their approach revitalised the property and significantly reduced its environmental footprint, exemplifying a conscientious blend of form and sustainability.
The studio’s philosophy centred on the ethos of building less but better, a concept that resonated throughout the project. By maximising the utility of existing spaces, they minimised the necessity for extensive extensions, thus curbing the household’s annual carbon emissions by an impressive 16 percent. This commitment to sustainability echoes in every facet of the renovation.
Situated within the Graham Road and Mapledene Conservation Area, the property underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, employing breathable, robust, and recycled materials to craft a tactile family abode tailored to the demands of modern life. From the outset, Whittaker Parsons embarked on a journey to enhance the residence’s connectivity with its surroundings, beginning with a comprehensive redesign of the ground floor.
The ground floor underwent a substantial overhaul to foster better circulation and a seamless transition to the lush backyard, an uncommon luxury in Northeast London. Wider internal openings between rooms ushered in an era of open-plan living, while a meticulous redesign of the side extension ensured harmonious integration with the existing structure. The extension’s footprint was carefully considered, striking a delicate balance between expansion and preservation of outdoor space.
At the heart of the extension lies a captivating interplay of two interconnected pitched volumes fashioned from aerated blockwork and Woodfibre insulation. The façade, adorned with a matte black cork render, not only exudes timeless elegance but also contributes to the dwelling’s thermal and acoustic efficiency. Inside, FSC ash-faced plywood lining and polished ground concrete floors create a warm and inviting ambience, accentuated by bespoke touches such as the Die Specker Terrazzo kitchen worktop.
To minimise environmental impact, Whittaker Parsons opted for sustainable alternatives, eschewing conventional materials wherever possible. From the painted timber boards lining the walls to the jute floor insulation crafted from repurposed coffee bean sacks, every element was carefully chosen to enhance longevity and eco-friendliness.
The commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere construction materials, permeating every aspect of the dwelling’s design. Embracing natural light and ventilation, the interiors exude a sense of airiness and serenity, promoting the well-being of their occupants. Even the smallest details, such as the bright yellow rubber flooring in the family bathroom, underscore the studio’s dedication to crafting spaces that are as visually stunning as they are environmentally conscious.
Despite facing formidable challenges, from navigating the intricacies of a Conservation Area to overcoming the logistical hurdles posed by the pandemic, Whittaker Parsons remained steadfast in their pursuit of excellence. Through meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, they transformed a dated townhouse into a sustainable sanctuary that seamlessly blends modern living with timeless elegance.
For more information, visit: https://whittakerparsons.com/
