Pergola House

Benjamin Wilkes

Lewisham, 2022

Shortlisted

A timber framed single-storey extension to a Victorian family home, combining two pitched brick volumes which provide a direct visual connection to the pitched roof of the existing outrigger. The pergola structure is formed of a series of oak ribs which afford both privacy and shade. The ribs are repeated internally to provide structure for the glazed roof which are then grounded to frame the gallery wall. Warm and tactile materials such as clay render, oak and terrazzo combine to create a bold and colourful interior.

The brief was to enlarge the kitchen space to accommodate the needs of a growing young family. Openings were formed to the existing rooms, with deep steps introduced to negotiate the level change. High shelves were integrated between the timber structure to display artefacts, beyond the reach of small hands.

To reduce site wastage, bricks from the existing external wall were salvaged and reused on the flank walls. Materials such as clay render, terrazzo and oak were chosen both for their sustainable credentials and their ability to weather beautifully. The colour palette is a muted interpretation of the rich contrasting tones of the original Victorian house interior. The brickwork emulates the traditional London stock brick, using a combination of bonds to provide a contemporary expression.

Learn more about Benjamin Wilkes

“An inside/outside bench creates an adaptable seating area; utliised as a contemplative spot in winter and a social link in summer.”

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