Offham Road
Ground floor reconfiguration, rear + first floor extension
Status: In progress
Location: West Malling
Project Description:
Murtagh Studio was engaged to assist a young couple in transforming their four bedroom character filled home into a more functional and well connected living space. The couple discovered the studio through local community correspondence and sought expert guidance to reconfigure their detached red brick property while preserving its period charm. With its traditional sash windows and elevated presence, the home possessed a striking exterior, but the internal layout felt disjointed and inefficient. Initially commissioned to assess the interior flow, it became evident that small yet carefully considered extensions would be necessary to achieve the couple’s vision of a forever home.
The redesign focused on improving connectivity throughout the house, particularly on the ground floor, where an overly complex arrangement of corridors disrupted the natural flow of movement. By refining the layout, Murtagh Studio introduced a new kitchen with a central island, seamlessly integrating a dedicated dining space and sitting area to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. In addition, a new home office was strategically positioned to take advantage of the property's expansive traditional windows, allowing for a bright and inspiring workspace. These adjustments not only enhanced the practicality of the home but, also reinforced its connection to natural light and its south facing garden.
To ensure the extensions complemented the existing architecture, a restrained and thoughtful approach was taken. The new additions were constructed using traditional brickwork, respecting the home's historic aesthetic while introducing modern elements such as slim, large glazed openings to foster a stronger relationship with the outdoor space. On the first floor, a modest new volume was designed to accommodate an ensuite for the principal bedroom, carefully incorporating original sash windows to maintain visual harmony with the rest of the house. The result is a home that effortlessly blends classic architectural features with contemporary touches, enhancing its functionality without compromising its heritage.
