The Hirsel
Brief
This project involved the alteration and extension of an existing family home within the Ely Grange Estate, reworking a traditional layout to better suit modern living. The original arrangement comprised a number of enclosed rooms that limited connectivity and daylight, while key living spaces lacked a meaningful relationship with the south-facing garden and pool.
The brief was to reorganise the internal layout, enhance the building envelope through targeted extensions, and strengthen the connection between the house and its landscape setting. The aim was to create a cohesive, light-filled home that balanced contemporary living with the character of the existing property.
Response
The design centres on a comprehensive reworking of the ground floor, combining the kitchen and dining areas into a generous open-plan space that serves as the home’s social heart. Large glazed openings and sliding doors to the south elevation establish a strong connection to the garden and pool, allowing natural light to flow through the plan. A new extension redefines the entrance sequence, creating a clearer and more welcoming arrival.
Ancillary areas are rationalised to improve functionality, including the reconfiguration of the garage and supporting spaces, while the first floor is refined to enhance the organisation and quality of the bedroom accommodation. New timber cladding and upgraded glazing unify the building externally, while new patio strengthens its relationship with the surrounding landscape.
