Workshop CJ Wood Architects

PROJECT: Built nearly a hundred years ago, the house is fairly unusual. It has some typical Kentish features such as a Kent peg tile roof and oak beams built into the exterior brickwork and this is combined with an uncommon symmetrical shape and hints of the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 1900s. With good views across the Kent countryside, the house is in a lovely setting. It was however in need of renovation and the configuration of the rooms meant it lacked a large family living space. About ten years ago planning permission for an extension had been refused so I was pessimistic about the prospects for making any radical improvements. I was looking for an architect with a holistic approach who could design renovations and an extension which met my needs but were sympathetic to the original building. An acquaintance recommended Chris Wood to me on the basis that he had experience with similar small but difficult projects. PROCESS: To begin with Chris presented me with a number of options for possible extensions and renovations to bring the interior layout up to date. After in depth discussions, we agreed on a plan to both open up the interior spaces and to extend the house. Chris designed renovations which were all exactly in keeping with the existing interior and an extension which, although a modern glass and timber structure, completely respected the original house through the use of sympathetic timber work and tiling. This felt like the right approach at the time and, now it's complete, has resulted in a perfectly harmonious building. Planning permission was (much to my surprise and delight) obtained smoothly and later I asked Chris to make two further planning applications for an extension to the garage and a garden wall, both of which were also successful. I needed a fully managed service and wanted to proceed quickly. Chris produced a comprehensive package of tender documents and helped to manage the tender process and the ultimate choice of builder. He drew up and supervised the building contract, holding site meetings with myself and the builder once a week during the works. Bringing his practical experience to bear has been invaluable in managing the project successfully and achieving the right quality. I have recommended Chris' practice to some friends who have a house nearby. RESULT: The works have transformed the house, creating a modern kitchen/dining and living area where family and friends naturally congregate and interact. At the same time the house still has a cosy parlour, study and bedrooms the feel of which I think the original 1920s owners would recognize and appreciate. The house now perfectly meets my needs. The extension feels naturally part of the house and the new terrace and hallway “flow” into the garden which, like the house, seems to have been given a new lease of life. PERSONAL: Chris proved gifted in designing an elegant and sympathetic extension as well as innovative renovations that made the best use of very limited space. He also has huge expertise in the technical aspects of building and materials. This proved invaluable when dealing with the builders/overseeing their work and ensured that the works were undertaken to the highest standards of construction and insulation. Chris kept me informed throughout all stages and during the build he prepared and circulated detailed minutes of our site meetings with the builders and other consultants. He always responded promptly to my calls and emails and took time to explain technical problems to me. In summary, Chris is a highly skilled professional and provides a first class service.

CLIENT REFERENCE: Elaine Smith A: PROJECT: I acquired a mansion flat a short walk from St John's Wood High St. with a view to using it as my London base for 6 months of the year. Previously a rental Investment it needed complete renovation. The layout was little altered from the 1920's original and very wasteful of space. Living in New York for some years now, I am used to spacious open plan apartments and I wanted to replicate this in London. B: PROCESS: I was initially put in contact with Christopher/ wcjw via our solicitor whom my brother and I have worked with for many years. We have gutted the flat, starting from scratch and Chris has steered the whole process - providing assistance and guidance where I needed it - from the initial options for alternative layouts with the pros and cons of each, to detailing my chosen design, producing highly technical drawings and specifications, dealing with approvals, tendering, managing the builder on site and (crucially) looking after my interests whilst away in the U.S. C: RESULT: A high quality finish, with a transformational layout that meets my requirements by using every inch (and nook) of space and achieving appropriately proportioned room sizes without sacrificing the open feel of the flat. In summary, the flat is light, airy, feels spacious and is practical with every detail considered to enhance the quality and usability of the space. D: PERSONAL – Chris listened to the brief given and did an excellent job of meeting those requirements. He is clearly talented at understanding space and in thinking through and articulating the possibilities. In addition, he is very organized, detail oriented and practical, staying on top of technicalities, third party requirements and managing construction. He is a good communicator, listening, articulating problems, possible solutions, timing etc as well as responding in a timely fashion to requests. I particularly appreciated his management skills while I was absence in the US, and also his help and advice on interior design.