Hand-crafted elements set this renovation apart

Renovation by Alexander & Co

From the architects:

This design takes a restrained approach to a traditional European vernacular, exploring bespoke quality detailing, materiality and architectural framing. With the existing house ineffectively dealing with scale limitations, the brief was primarily to explore how we could reintroduce a higher quality of spatial resolution.

The plans and volumes were subsequently rationalised around better circulation, view corridors and access to the water – with an emphasis on architectural framing and the suitable transition from interior to exterior.

The garden was refined, designed with proportion in mind in order to achieve a sense of privacy as well as maximise use of amenities for the homeowner.

The large-scale opening explored opportunity for external living and dining, an integral aspect to the owners’ brief, addressing the need for entertaining spaces, essential for a ‘home away from home’. The house is focused upon the ‘hand made’. 

Fittings, finishes, lighting and claddings all express an artisan reference point. The pared back interiors, subdued palette and hand made quality creates a ‘lived in’ atmosphere for the owners, an important element for them to experience a sense of place and history. 

Pushed back from the water’s edge, the home presented challenges due to this lack of physical connection that was evident in neighbouring properties.

The core idea focused on neutralising the exterior in a way that fits in with the landscape to avoid detracting from the beauty of the surrounding context.

A contemporary and minimalist approach for the garden allowed for the view to become the main focus. Through the exploration, we were successful at creating an open space that spills out onto the outdoor garden facilitating the relaxed connection between building and waterfront.

Its use as a holiday house meant that the open-plan living space and garden were to become the central focus, as entertaining and hosting guests is a regular activity.

Subsequent thresholds and vistas between the inside, the balconies/courtyard and the exterior provided the ability to open up the interiors to the garden area and offer flexibility.

Constant interaction and collaborative work with sub contractor and consultants through workshopping of ideas, rather than simple execution, was essential in delivering the best possible design outcome. 

With the focus on bespoke, well-refined design details, a high level of craftsmanship was required to complement the refined interiors.

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Felix Forest