The project sensitively enhance the residential amenity of a Grade II listed detached single-family house, believed to have been constructed between 1820 and 1860. The property is arranged over lower ground, ground, first, and second floors, and is situated within a substantial private garden. The principal elevation faces north-west, with the rear garden oriented to the south.

​

The project involves the formation of a sunken garden, along with a pool, gym, and changing facilities, all constructed beneath the rear garden. The pool complex is entirely underground and has no discernible impact on the listed building or the surrounding conservation area. The sunken garden provides natural daylight to the subterranean pool hall while also establishing a discreet and enclosed outdoor space suitable for accommodating a guesthouse.

​

In conjunction with the pool hall and garden, the  project includes three storeys of further family accommodation. This extension provides two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms at garden level, and a kitchen and living area at ground floor level. The accommodation is designed so that the majority of the structure is contained within the sunken garden, with only one storey visible above ground.

​

To link the new underground facilities with the existing house, two short staircases connecting to the existing house via a glazed links at ground floor level were constructed. These connections are made through existing door and window openings, which were adapted for the purpose. The interventions are designed to be both visually unobtrusive and reversible, preserving the architectural character and historic fabric of the listed building.

​

This carefully considered proposal delivers high-quality modern living space with minimal impact on the listed building and its setting. By locating the bulk of the development underground and integrating it with a landscaped sunken garden, the scheme ensures that the historic and architectural value of the property is respected and preserved.

​

In addition to the new pool complex, a new entrance hall has been created by carefully removing the existing conservatory roof terrace and first-floor gallery to reinstate the double-height conservatory, clad in copper and Portland stone. The profile and plan of the conservatory are informed by recorded drawings of the original structure, as well as the curved façade of the existing entrance. Skylights in the conservatory ceiling allow sunlight to be dramatically cast onto the interior’s curved plaster walls. A frameless glazed opening on the north elevation offers a carefully framed view of the landscaped garden beyond. The restrained fenestration is deliberately articulated to create a light and airy space, while minimising the transmission of interior light into the secluded surroundings of neighbouring properties.