Client: Private | Architect: HNA Architects | Contractor: Lichfield Construction Ltd
This large detached property had fantastic views and setting but the existing property didn’t make full use of these. It was proposed to re-design and extend the domestic property to make better use of the site and to generally improve the quality and size of the living accommodation.
Having worked successfully with both Architect and Contractor on similar previous projects, Edge Structural Design Ltd were approached for the structural design of the extension and numerous internal alterations.
The Architect’s design allowed for ‘opening-up’ of the ground floor layout, creating an open-plan space incorporating kitchen, dining and informal living areas linked via bi-fold doors to the external spaces. This was made possible through the installation of a number of steel beams to allow removal of internal loadbearing walls to create the new open-plan space.
Further structural alterations and a rear extension allowed the creation of a new master bedroom complete with walk-through dressing area and en-suite bathroom. Three further bedrooms were enlarged and provided with en-suite bathrooms and the property was re-roofed to maximise available floor space at first floor level.
The structural alterations and extension allowed the Architect to achieve his ambitions for the property; creating an open-plan living space flooded with natural light that makes the most of the incredible views of the surrounding countryside. The extension was designed and constructed to blend harmoniously with the existing house and its surroundings.
Our client provided us with a unique challenge to re-design an existing house and make better use of the site. This project offered a great opportunity but would require major structural alterations to ‘open-up’ the property and allow it to reach its’ full potential. After many concept schemes and much negotiation and contemplation, we finally reached a design that our client and ourselves were eager to proceed with. We required the services of a structural engineer with experience of working with existing buildings and who, more importantly, able to share our vision to deliver a clean and contemporary atmosphere.
It was essential for us to appoint an engineer with a sensitive approach to aesthetics; having collaborated on various previous projects, we were confident that Edge Structural Design would fulfil our requirements and our client’s expectations. Edge were very competent throughout the design and construction phases and Penny (Edge’s project engineer), came to be an important member of the project team; ourselves and the contractor, found Edge to be reliable and responsive as construction works evolved and advanced.
Following completion, ourselves and the client were very pleased with the result: a light and modern family home which now enjoys fantastic views and a connectivity to the surrounding site which Edge’s concise and detailed work help create. The success achieved on this project, has already encouraged us to collaborate with Edge on other projects and we are confident we will continue to work with them on future projects.
