A niche garden room with character

The exceptional nature of the Kings Row project was not in its scale, but in the detailing and its intrinsic build challenges; an internal glass covered well and large glazed roof section are features of the final build. The Barr Group were commissioned to build a contemporary garden room, designed by Anderson Orr Architects in close collaboration with the property owners.

Planning consent required careful consideration of material choices and a clear definition between the original property and the new structure. Matched coursed stone was used in keeping with the rear facade of the property, balancing the old with the new.

Particular attention was given to the bridging between the existing and new structures, in particular rolled edges to the lime plasterwork which frame the old stone outer wall. The main internal bridge features a copper faced detail to the timber lintel, adding textural interest and tonal balance.

The glazed roof section acts as both an architectural feature and a light source, spanning the width of the garden room. At five metres wide, the single glazing panel was carefully craned into position over the Kings Row roof and into its steel frame cradle.

Fixed square picture windows sit at either side of the space, aligned in size and position, giving a line of sight from one old stone garden wall to the other. Considered apertures are an important element of the design of this bijoux space - providing its dwellers with a wealth of garden vistas.

Outside, the external steps were removed to form a wider levelled terrace area with a concrete micro-screed finish running from inside out. Sliding glazing panels to the terrace open the house out to the garden... British weather permitting!

The single-storey stone-clad structure both complements and contrasts the Grade II listed residence against which it sits. Designed not to shout but to enhance, the end result is a pleasing balance of old and new.

The project, completed earlier this year was a timely addition to the property and one which we hope has given our clients much pleasure. We thank them for allowing us to share their imagery and project details.