As a part of our twentieth year blogs series we are about to look at a sector that has been important to our practice and that is basement extensions.
London Basement Extensions
We have worked on over thirty basement extensions in London of all types and size. From basement extensions to houses and also mews properties, to flats and basements below gardens and to listed properties too. In our first year we started on our first basement extension project in Ellerby Street in Fulham and soon, through clients recommendations worked on basement projects nearby in Hurlingham Road and Broomhouse Road.
London Basement Architects
As architects with a great deal of experience in designing basement extensions we bring both creativity and technical knowledge to each project alongside detailed experience of the planning issues relating to basement design and all points related to compliance with building regulations. We also have longstanding relationships with a range of consultants experienced in basement design from structural engineers to party wall surveyors. Equally we continue to work with a variety of Contractors with whom we have built many basement projects. Our twenty years of experience in basement projects is of considerable benefit to each new basement extension.
London Basement Design
There are a number of design issues that are key in achieving a successful basement extension that we have explored in all our projects. These are the integration of the basement with the ground floor and the flow between the spaces. The sense of light and space within the basement. The design and location of the stair. The efficient planning of the various rooms. Often it is the stair and its location that addresses these points. A stair set below a rooflight works well, connecting the basement with the sky. The stair located in a glass cube extension as at projects in Hurlingham Road and St. Dunstans Road takes this idea further.
The design process is an important aspect of a successful basement project and clear communication with the client is key. Our use of 3D computer models from the very first project has enabled us to thoroughly explore design options and discuss these with our clients. In particular the use of glass in relation to bringing daylight into a space and providing views between spaces.
If you are considering a basement extension please feel free to contact us at Shape Architecture. We would be happy to visit you at your home to discuss the design issues and explain the process.
