This new build family house has been constructed within a Conservation Area in Richmond upon Thames.

The design seeks to acknowledge the different Victorian buildings on either side and to respond to them in a contemporary manner.

The deep plan building is organized around a central atrium space, off which all the main rooms of the house open. It is designed to find a middle ground between modern open plan and traditional separate rooms, by defining rooms as spaces, but allowing overlapping of spaces at the edges. Large sliding walls and doors also add flexibility.

Circulation is through the main rooms and up short flights between different levels rather than by traditional corridors and stairwells. The commission also included designing the exterior and garden spaces.

Awards
2002 Manser Medal runner up
2002 RIAI Regional Award commendation

Publications
Building Design
Architecture Ireland
Gail Abbot [2008] Living with Light, Cico books, London.