Walled Garden

nimtim architects

Lambeth, 2023

Shortlisted

Longlisted

A reimagining of a London Victorian 2-storey garden flat, within the Minet estate Conservation Area in Stockwell. The project added a rear extension, re-configured the interior spaces and included a redesign of the existing garden. The objective was to create a space of reflection and sanctuary from the city: a home full of soft daylight and richly textured natural materials.

The project was above all a collaboration with the clients. Nimtim began work on the project after planning had been secured. They worked closely to develop the internal layouts and material palette within the constraints of the approved envelope.

The outcome was a true reflection of a collective vision and ambition.

The project is very much of its place: a reinvention of a home that celebrates the best of its existing characteristics. Reusing existing soot-stained London bricks and reinvigorating the sheltered, sunken garden as the focus of the house. The home celebrates the qualities of materiality and light that this part of London evokes.
Our clients wanted the home to feel open but not cavernous. On the upper floor a master suite is created with private living space and a large bathroom affording views of the garden. We introduced an internal balcony that permits a dialogue between the bedrooms, the living space and the garden lending an almost civic quality to the flat.
A datum, defined by the walls in the garden is continued throughout. Initially by the continuation of a similar brick internally and then by the introduction of a picture rail or a change in material texture.
Nimtim’s concept for the garden was to create something that would be beautiful to look at but that also defined ‘moments’ within it. We planted lush ornamental grasses and ferns that could withstand the South facing aspect and thrive in the dappled light beneath the canopies of established trees beyond.

“Our favourite bit of the completed project is the framed views of the garden and trees beyond, now within sight from the depth of the plan. We feel so much more connected to the seasonal changes through the transformative quality of light inside.”

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