The 18th century house in the countryside of Kent consists of two parts -- the refurbished historic space and the modern cottage extension. British architect Guy Hollaway sought out to create a holiday home for his family that mirrored the architectural concepts he explored with his studio practice.
Naturally, the endeavor "required many different design and construction skills in respecting the traditional construction methods," while adding the glass- and concrete-based modern cottage extensions.
As the contemporary element called for rearranging the traditional layout to incorporate open-concept spaces, the "reconstructed internal brick walls with traditional lime mortar introduce another historical detail."
A definite highlight of the modern cottage extension is the "fanciful" spiral staircases that is behind a curve glass. It leads to the utility room.
Photo Credits: Charles Hosea
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Refurbished Historic Spaces
- Opportunity to update and renovate historical buildings while incorporating modern elements, such as glass and concrete extensions.
- Open-concept Spaces
- Growing demand for flexible and open floor plans in residential and commercial spaces, requiring rearrangement of traditional layouts.
- Innovative Staircase Design
- Increasing interest in unique and visually impactful staircase designs, like spiral staircases with curved glass.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Architecture
- Architects and designers can explore new ways to blend old and new elements in renovation projects, incorporating modern materials like glass and concrete.
- Construction
- Contractors can develop skills and expertise in working with traditional construction methods while incorporating modern design elements in building extensions.
- Interior Design
- Interior designers can find opportunities in reconfiguring traditional layouts to meet the demand for open-concept spaces, as well as incorporating unique staircase designs as focal points.
