This 4-bedroom character family property sits within an eclectic tree lined street scene with a mature garden to the rear. Critically, the garden had no meaningful relationship to the existing home, and could only be seen and enjoyed through a couple of small windows. RHJB were approached with a brief to expand the living space of this character property by adding a rear ground floor extension, creating a versatile family space that incorporated a kitchen, dining and living area. The brief was subsequently expanded to include a first floor housing a master bedroom suite. Our design features large areas of glazing to both floors, to capitalise on natural daylight from a predominantly east facing rear elevation. Level changes to the rear afforded the opportunity of large glazed doors and a level threshold, all of which add to the grandeur of the proposals. RHJB entered into positive discussion with the local planning authority during the planning process. The contemporary nature of the proposals was ultimately embraced and supported by the local authority. This culminated in the approval of a design that ‘challenges the norm’, and creates a large, open and dynamic extension to this family home. Find out more about this project on our website https://www.rhjbarchitects.com/portfolio-item/haynes_road/