Little Brownings

The judges were impressed by the exceptional attention to detail and high quality of design, whilst also retaining a sense of liveability, warmth and character throughout. The contemporary design simultaneously demonstrates a consideration for the practical use of the space, and the overall concept and materials used showcase the architect’s approach to sustainability and placemaking.

"This overall winner strikes the balance between practical and playful with contemporary touches such as clay worktops in the kitchen and a secret study on the landing. But there isn’t a whiff of pretension. It’s a much-loved family home that oozes warmth and character." - Anna White, Property and Lifestyle Journalist, 2022 Judge

"One of my highlights of the competition. This home delighted me from start to finish. A beautiful space with a level of detailing that surpassed my expectations. Everything in the house has a reason for existing, some things are playful, others beautiful or functional, but they all make you happy." - Kunle Barker, Property Expert and Broadcaster, 2022 Judge

Learn more about Archmongers

Archmongers' brief was to refurbish the house into a contemporary house, including a front extension to replace the existing lean-to. The project works with highly detailed solutions to add better connected modern spaces without adding very much to the footprint. The skeleton of the mid-century house was good, but the kitchen and hallway circulation needed to be redesigned to better integrate the main living spaces. The front extension works very hard to accommodate the kitchen and utility room in a restricted space. Yet it also showcases a jewellery box of design features to extend the perception of space, allowing enjoyment of the surrounding terrace and trees.

It is an example of how progressive the 60s houses were, as with some help, it is now an uncompromising modern house for years to come.

"The durability of our concept and materials demonstrates our approach to sustainability and placemaking. These values have underpinned our work on Little Brownings, which sits within the renowned Dulwich Estate. Our design instils a freshness to the estate, but is driven by a sensitivity to its original vision, the context of each space, and the people that occupy it.

"The quality of detail of the Little Brownings project exceeds what you normally see in a modestly-sized space. Our original and enduring design ideas culminate throughout the property to unlock its true potential and help its occupants flourish." - Johan Hybschmann, Partner, Archmongers Architects