Kings Road House

Overlooking the South Park Gardens in Wimbledon, this Edwardian house has been transformed in every possible way. This bold yet quietly resolving family home is a contemporary equivalent to the traditional brick homes along Kings Road.

The client approached Matthew Giles Architects to develop designs to extend, remodel and refurbish their south London home. Having recently purchased this dilapidated building, they saw an opportunity to create a truly bespoke family home. A schedule of spaces required was provided, and they expressed an interest in modifying the appearance of the building, while improving the thermal efficiency of their detached home. A new sheltered front porch is carefully articulated using heavy masonry elements and chamfered edges are a consistent form throughout, enticing views while reducing impact on neighbours. A textured limewash process known in Scandinavia as ‘Sækkeskuring’ was used over the face of brick to add to the monolithic appearance. A first-floor rear bay window is angled away from overlooking neighbouring extensions, enhancing views and privacy, while beneath this within the punctured extension, an internal planted lightwell is positioned between the study and garden-facing seating area separating work, dining, and lounge while supporting cross ventilation. The now warm and bright interiors are designed around connection, quality and texture, with bespoke joinery by Matthew Giles Architects. Fun is had with a kite shaped roof light and a sculptural, turned oak handrail. Kings Road House does not feel grand, rather an exemplar of natural, sustainable materials that stands as an ornament for the area.