FDA was asked to develop a proposal for altering the existing two storeys Coach House annex to the Main House currently used as an ancillary space to the swimming pool and the orchard. The design intent was to create a simple layout with an open plan that will offer flexible opportunities for the family to use it as a recreation play and pool pavilion space and gain a natural integration between the pool pavilion, pool, garden and the Main House. Currently all these elements seem to be strongly separated visually and functionally which is the exact opposite of how the Client would like to see and use them.

Restricted budget lead us into limiting excavation works by retaining existing wall footprints but reducing the building height. By implementing a lower, better proportioned volume with timber cladding and traditional, less pitched roof (a nod towards local traditional architectural vernacular) to soften the building’s presence in the dense surrounding greenery.

The use of natural materials such as the timber vertical boards to the South, North and East elevations, attuned to the two existing timber clad out buildings currently located in the garden, as well as the traditional cedar shingles to the roof, are chosen to give the intervention a discreet and unobtrusive tone in the short and long term, as they need minimal maintenance whilst securing a lasting appearance and performance.

The opened covered space with large glazing sections to the West elevations of the building ensures that the modified space is well integrated with the property’s garden, with a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.