Glazed extension on Georgian townhouse in Berkshire

On this project we worked with the client and architects, Woodfield Brady, to create a spacious, contemporary family kitchen and dining area in a Georgian townhouse in Henley.

The architects designed a new, three-storey, partially glazed extension to connect the old Georgian house with the original barn. The barn now houses the kitchen area while a further single-storey extension provides additional space for the open-plan dining area. Extensive use of glazing provides plenty of natural light. Light floods into the kitchen through sky lights, a huge roof light and French windows that open onto the courtyard. This, along with the double-height ceiling in the barn, gives an incredible feeling of space. The exposed flint wall and retention of the original beams contrast beautifully with the clean lines of the bulthaup B3 range. The combination of these elements give this contemporary living area an organic, traditional feel.

The clients main requirement was a hard-working, easy-to-use, and sociable area suitable to both family living and entertaining. The wall of tall, elm fronted units is home to the majority of the appliances, including fridge and freezer, raised dishwasher, oven and steam oven and rollo-shutter (to hold small appliances and keep the work surfaces clear). Along the back wall is a run of suspended floating units with the b3 wall panels and shelves behind providing an exciting contrast to the exposed flint wall. The island, directly facing the dining area, provides the perfect working/theatre-style area. Accommodating the sink, storage and large prep area, it ensures the host can socialise and cook with ultimate ease. The finishes selected, including elm veneer, stone worktops, aluminium and glass, all combine with the design of the layout to enhance the living area feel of the space.