The Art of Design Issue 18 2016 | Page 10

10 PEEK Architecture + Design Ltd Classic Proportions For Modern Living properties, and Georgina was recently the lead Architect on Margaret Thatcher’s former grade II listed residence at Chester Square, London. The majority of the practice’s projects are the restoration and development of central London period buildings, so given the opportunity to develop a new build in a traditional style, an opportunity to imprint the lessons learned through years of examining these beautiful examples was realised. When Georgina Turvey from PEEK Architecture + Design was faced with the empty site near Richmond, she was given a brief to create a classic and traditional new house, undertaking the planning permissions to the construction, interiors and furnishing. Having the design intent for the interiors devised at the very start, means the scheme has a coherence and flow, everything having its perfect place and geometry. The house ‘Wildcroft’ is approached via a grand wrought iron gate, and stone steps lead up from the pedestrian gate to the grand front porch, with balcony above. Georgina invested time on the selection of the stone and brick for the exterior, with the brick being chosen so that it was the best match to Georgian red brick. The land Wildcroft is sited on, is quite uniqe. To the North stand beautiful, ancient trees, with Richmond Park just beyond. To the South there are far reaching views over green spaces, towards Wimbledon common from the elevated position. The proximity to Richmond and Kew was the inspiration for the formal dining room, with lush green plants on display in the centre of the antique round table (from Elizabeth James Antiques). From the outset, the strategy for the interiors was integral to the scheme, and the layout was formulated with the more formal spaces to the front of the house, and the open plan kitchen in an additional wing to the rear. PEEK Architecture are experienced in the restoration of heritage The objective was to create a home inspired by perfect Georgian proportions, symmetry and space, but to house modern living and to be as energy efficient as possible. It was paramount that light and circulation were considered in all aspects of the design. The vertical axis of the house is also key, and when entering through the front door, the eyes are drawn up the large stone, staircase leading to the landings above. A triple height space is created from the void between stairs and landings, with a large glazed lantern rooflight over. The hallway is tiled in White Emperdor marble with a 2 tone trim consisting of Grey Marquina and Fumed Emperador to the perimeter, following the curve of the stairs (from Mandarin Stone). The stair balustrade is made from raw metal spindles and a natural oak handrail, by Crafted Handrails (www.craftedhandrails.co.uk)