ArchShowcase Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Ennismore Gardens in London, England by ÜberRaum ArchitectsFebruary 5th, 2018 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: ÜberRaum Architects ÜberRaum Architects’ Ennismore Gardens project is located in a Grade ll listed Victorian terrace in the Knightsbridge Conservation Area. The ground floor apartment was refurbished and a one storey rear extension added. With a basement and six storeys, a Doric entryway and stucco façade marks the property’s historic significance. Leaving this untouched emulates the architects’ intentions – accentuating period details alongside contemporary features.
The rear elevation is varied in form and materiality, demonstrating the uncoordinated expansion work of the past. ÜberRaum’s intervention, a contemporary dining space, engages with this eclecticism. Made entirely of glass, the structure captures a unique perspective of a traditional building typology. By retaining visibility of the original elevation, inside and outside blur together, while inset lighting quietly ensures the celebration of structural detailing. Preserved by this transparency is the light well courtyard of the flat below, tucked between the building façade and the existing extension the conservatory sits upon. Maintaining access to a roof terrace, the seemingly weightless addition has minimal impact on views and daylighting. Internally, the contemporary addition adds proportion and 20% more floor space. This is complemented by grouping communal living spaces and adding a bespoke kitchen, bathroom and built-in joinery. Historically significant features were reinstated to re-establish the two-bed property’s character, including the replacement of unoriginal doors and fireplaces with more authentic pieces. Similarly, traditional materials such as dark timber, brass and marble were reincorporated into contemporary detailing. Existing windows were double glazed and energy efficient systems added to extend the property’s lifespan. Contact ÜberRaum Architects
Categories: Apartments, Microstation, Renovation, Residential |