THE WRITER’ S HOUSE
A thoughtful synthesis of old and new in Winchester
AR Design Studio is delighted to introduce The Writer’ s House, a masterful contemporary extension and sensitive refurbishment of a classic three-storey Victorian villa in Winchester, completed in 2024. With an emphasis on maximizing space, embracing natural light, and maintaining a mindful budget, this project highlights the seamless integration of modern design within a traditional context.
A Subtle, Elegant Extension
The rear extension is an exercise in understated elegance. A singlestorey volume stretches from the original structure, reaching deep into the expansive garden beyond. The rear façade features an expanse of tall, sleek glazing with impressively slim mullions, flooding the interior with natural light and offering unobstructed views of the lush greenery. This elegant glazing mirrors the tall Victorian windows of the original house, creating a subtle dialogue between old and new. The minimalist form of the extension honors the aesthetic goals of the project, maintaining a cost-effective approach while creating a harmonious connection to the Victorian villa’ s delicate craftsmanship.
Embracing Height and Light
A key challenge of the project was to integrate a contemporary extension within the traditional framework of the Victorian home. The solution came in the form of high, three-meter ceilings that match the grandeur of the existing rooms, reinforcing the sense of space and light throughout the home. The large rooflight between the new extension and the original house allows daylight to cascade
6- REFURB & RESTORE