Kitchen
A dazzlingly contemporary extension wrapped in a traditional exteriorChoosing brickwork that matches the original so closely makes this extension, designed by FC Architects, almost invisible from the outside. The pitched roof and choice not to extend the full side return also nod to the earlier life of the building. It all makes the large, light-loving patio doors less of a feature in their own right as they, too, blend in more easily with such a backdrop.
An extension to a between-the-wars home looks as if it’s always been thereFrom the inside of this detached 1930s family home in Cambridge, a key feature that stands out is the unusual window formation – a change from the more typical large expanse of uninterrupted glass and bifold doors. This is significant, as it’s a major detail that helps the new part of the house blend in with the original building, as you can see in the next photo. The new extension houses a sleek and contemporary kitchen-diner, but architect Kieran Hawkins of Mailen Design was keen to put it in context. “We wanted to make a room that respected the feel of an early 20th century English house. The rhythm of the windows and doors, and views of the garden, also helped to define the layout.”Materials including wood and ceramics were key to the characterful feel of the room. “It’s important to use natural materials that age well wherever possible,” Hawkins adds.
Go the whole hogWith general rubbish, food waste and recycling to consider, giving over the whole area under the sink to a complete waste system makes sense in a busy home. The pull-out design makes it easy to access, and the separate units lift out, so they’re a doddle to empty. A fully integrated design like this means there’s no need for any precious floor or worktop space to be taken up with ugly rubbish caddies.
Floating shelves & downlighters
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