Nestled adjacent to the verdant expanse of Abney Park, a historic Victorian arboretum in Hackney, London, stands Park House, a shining example of the transformative power of thoughtful architecture. S&M Architects have masterfully remodelled and extended a Victorian terrace, creating a light-filled and spacious home perfectly tailored to the needs of two writers and their feline companions. The project is more than just a renovation; it’s a dialogue between architecture and nature, a celebration of the surrounding woodland, and a demonstration of the power of considered design.
The house’s unique position, overlooking a Grade II listed wall bordering the arboretum, presented both a challenge and an opportunity. The existing structure suffered from structural and functional limitations, including a leaky polycarbonate conservatory. S&M Architects replaced this with a carefully designed extension, maximizing space and light while forging a deeper connection with the natural world just beyond its walls.
The newly added ground floor extension boasts a generous dining and living space, artfully crafted to include inviting corners perfect for reading and writing. Hidden behind a sleek folding wall, a discreet toilet and utility storage maintain a clean and organized aesthetic. The design prioritizes sweeping views and plentiful natural light, perfectly showcasing the stunning vistas of the dynamic foliage beyond.
The extension’s curved corner, paired with large glazed windows, highlights the historic ivy-clad wall, creating a serene backdrop for both residents and their feline companions. Above the kitchen, a circular rooflight offers a stunning view of the tree canopy, casting an enchanting interplay of light and shadow across the dining space below.
S&M Architects have embraced a selection of natural materials and colors that draw inspiration from the nearby woodland, effectively merging the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Timber serves as a cohesive element throughout the design, utilized in the structure, joinery, windows, and even the furniture. The handcrafted worktops, crafted from recycled wood-chip waste embedded in terrazzo, introduce a distinctive touch of artistry and warmth to the environment.
Raw terracotta tiles reflect the earthy essence of the forest floor, while the exterior finishes, adorned in rich greens and deep burgundies, capture the essence of the changing seasons. A striking lilac-tiled plinth elegantly encircles the extension, creating a harmonious connection with the existing house.
The needs of both the human and feline residents have been meticulously considered. A landscape of soft seating wraps around the dining and kitchen areas, creating a variety of cozy reading nooks and providing ample hideaways for the cats. An upholstered bay window, complete with a wall light and a fold-out table, offers the perfect spot for reading. A bespoke cat climbing frame, combining playful elements with practical warmth, features a heated bed and numerous spaces for climbing, lounging, and play.
The project’s success lies in its delicate balance. It strengthens the connection between the home and its natural surroundings while simultaneously protecting the trees and historic structures. Screw pile foundations were carefully employed to safeguard the roots of the trees and the integrity of the historic wall. This sensitive approach ensures that the project leaves a minimal footprint on its environment.
“It’s been wonderful to incorporate so many natural materials and timber into Park House,” says Catrina Stewart, Founding Director of Office S&M, “allowing us to create a home that not only connects with its surroundings but it’s made from it too!” Park House is more than just a home; it’s a sanctuary, a place of peace and inspiration, a tribute to the power of architecture to enhance our connection with the natural world. It invites discovery and celebrates the beauty of Abney Park, offering a tranquil and inspiring space for its inhabitants, both human and feline.