LAWFORD ROAD
A Passivhaus retrofit and extension of a large townhouse in North London
The clients’ brief for a minimal white interior has been realised in surfaces of varied texture and reflectiveness that bring depth and character to the seamless white interiors. These white surfaces are made evident as thin layers where cupboards open to reveal warm birch plywood interiors, and in the exposed plywood structure of the new study extension.
The plywood elements hint at the hidden presence of the new timber structure of the building: during the work the entire inside of the property was removed to leave a vast 3-storey void within the existing brick shell. Inside this a highly insulated and independent timber frame building was carefully constructed - a building within a building.
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Shortlisted for the NLA 'Don't Move Improve' Awards 2020
"The result is impressive. The clean white surfaces, paired with warming wood, are an obvious match for our aesthetic - but the house is deeper than that. The use of a single system of modular plywood components throughout the house will allow us to adapt it as our needs change, key to the long term sustainability of the building. The insulation and airtightness measures have led to a house that is not only efficient, but comfortable everywhere - it’s strangely pleasant to live without draughts. As an engineer, though, my favourite aspect is how it’s possible to see through the white skin of the building, into its wooden structure and colour coded services, simply by opening a cupboard door or entering the study. We’re looking forward to seeing how the building works with us in the coming years."
Andrew, client
Main Contractor - Bow Tie Construction
Structural Engineer - Bob Johnson Structural Engineers
Passivhaus Designer - CANDO
Approved Inspector - BCA
Plywood study - Calculated Manufacturing
Joinery - Harbour Joinery Workshops and Thomas Collier Joinery
Glazing - Sky-frame, Cantifix, Green Building Store & OM Glazing
Internal doors - Shadbolt
Flooring - Dinesen
KNX Smart home - Client and Future Ready Homes
Photography © French+Tye