Hampstead House
Carver Farshi
Camden, 2024
Longlisted
The reinvigoration and extension of a Neo-Georgian house that both celebrates the heritage of the original building and introduces a highly contemporary, light-filled extension.
We started by peeling off the ill-conceived extensions and rationalising the circulation through the interior spaces. Springing off this central circulation, a linear extension stretches out into the garden, giving panoramic views. The original rear façade of the house, now uncovered and reinstated, brings light into the previously dark spaces of the plan.
Using a traditional and craft-led approach, original features of the property were revived alongside a highly detailed, materially contrasting new addition, creating a sympathetic layering of old and new within this North London family home.
“Just a few of our MANY favourite things about the project are: 1) The kitchen. Yes, the fins, which I was so dubious about. Also, open the garden-facing glass doors, especially when it's raining. 2) The flow: seeing to the garden from the front door and that the formal areas (lounge, dining room) are flowed through rather than cut off from the rest of the house. 3) The loft is supposed to be a kids zone, but we love it up there, especially if we are home on a sunny winter day. 4) The contrast between old and new. I absolutely love the mix of traditional feel and then our uber modern extension. 5) The detail in the downstairs wood frame doors, panelling, and ceiling in the lounge 6) The mix of materials—wood, glass, concrete, and brick—is especially important in extension. I could go on for ages, but I'm limited to 800 characters!”
