Our clients wanted to completely transform their home, either via extensions and extensive refurbishment or via a new build. We undertook a detailed comparative study into which option would provide the right solution, taking into account build cost, running cost and the delivery of custom-made spaces and fit-out. The study firmly pointed firmly towards a new-build solution. The client asked for a contemporary, yet contextual, design. The planning process was complex. New-builds are rarely approved in Richmond and no one on the road had yet gained planning approval for a contemporary design. However, consent was gained unanimously at planning committee, the design being praised for being both modern, yet complimenting its neighbours. The design has twin, 'extruded' gables taken from front to back. These gabled elements provide the large living spaces desired by our clients. The protruding, brick-clad, gabled verges give the house visual strength and together with the recessed gutters, produce a clean uncluttered look. Internal drama is created through a triple height circulation void at the front, giving views of St Matthias Church at the top of Richmond Hill. This space houses a spectacular glass, steel and timber staircase. The gable-ends have large metal windows at the front and rear, taking natural light deep into the plan. The drawing room window is full height, providing views of the forty metre high London plane tree in the rear garden. The solid panels in the gable ends are in carefully-detailed stone. The master suite includes a vaulted, double height bathroom, well lit from above by a linear, ridge level, skylight. The project is currently on site and is due for completion Summer 2018.