The owners of a charming home in the hills west of Paso Robles recently decided to remodel their not-so-charming kitchen. Referred to San Luis Kitchen by several of their friends, the homeowners visited our showroom and soon decided we were the best people to design a kitchen fitting the style of their home. We were delighted to get to work on the project right away. When we arrived at the house, we found a small, cramped and out-dated kitchen. The ceiling was low, the cabinets old fashioned and painted a stark dead white, and the best view in the house was neglected in a seldom-used breakfast nook (sequestered behind the kitchen peninsula). This kitchen was also handicapped by white tile counters with dark grout, odd-sized and cluttered cabinets, and small ‘desk’ tacked on to the side of the oven cabinet. Due to a marked lack of counter space & inadequate storage the homeowner had resorted to keeping her small appliances on a little cart parked in the corner and the garbage was just sitting by the wall in full view of everything! On the plus side, the kitchen opened into a nice dining room and had beautiful saltillo tile floors. Mrs. Homeowner loves to entertain and often hosts dinner parties for her friends. She enjoys visiting with her guests in the kitchen while putting the finishing touches on the evening’s meal. Sadly, her small kitchen really limited her interactions with her guests – she often felt left out of the mix at her own parties! This savvy homeowner dreamed big – a new kitchen that would accommodate multiple workstations, have space for guests to gather but not be in the way, and maybe a prettier transition from the kitchen to the dining (wine service area or hutch?) – while managing the remodel budget by reusing some of her major appliances and keeping (patching as needed) her existing floors. Responding to the homeowner’s stated wish list and the opportunities presented by the home's setting and existing architecture, the designers at San Luis Kitchen decided to expand the kitchen into the breakfast nook. This change allowed the work area to be reoriented to take advantage of the great view – we replaced the existing window and added another while moving the door to gain space. A second sink and set of refrigerator drawers (housing fresh fruits & veggies) were included for the convenience of this mainly vegetarian cook – her prep station. The clean-up area now boasts a farmhouse style single bowl sink – adding to the ‘cottage’ charm. We located a new gas cook-top between the two workstations for easy access from each. Also tucked in here is a pullout trash/recycle cabinet for convenience and additional drawers for storage. Running parallel to the work counter we added a long butcher-block island with easy-to-access open shelves for the avid cook and seating for friendly guests placed just right to take in the view. A counter-top garage is used to hide excess small appliances. Glass door cabinets and open shelves are now available to display the owners beautiful dishware. The microwave was placed inconspicuously on the end of the island facing the refrigerator – easy access for guests (and extraneous family members) to help themselves to drinks and snacks while staying out of the cook’s way. We also moved the pantry storage away from the dining room (putting it on the far wall and closer to the work triangle) and added a furniture-like hutch in its place allowing the more formal dining area to flow seamlessly into the up-beat work area of the kitchen. This space is now also home (opposite wall) to an under counter wine refrigerator, a liquor cabinet and pretty glass door wall cabinet for stemware storage – meeting Mr. Homeowner’s desire for a bar service area. And then the aesthetic: an old-world style country cottage theme. The homeowners wanted the kitchen to have a warm feel while still loving the look of white cabinetry. San Luis Kitchen melded country-casual knotty pine base cabinets with vintage hand-brushed creamy white wall cabinets to create the desired cottage look. We also added bead board and mullioned glass doors for charm, used an inset doorstyle on the cabinets for authenticity, and mixed stone and wood counters to create an eclectic nuance in the space. All in all, the happy homeowners now boast a charming county cottage kitchen with plenty of space for entertaining their guests while creating gourmet meals to feed them. Credits: Custom cabinetry by Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry Contracting by Michael Pezzato of Lost Coast Construction Stone counters by Pyramid M.T.M.

Photo by Trent Bell
Trendy entryway photo in Portland Maine with blue walls and a glass front door

This small space demanded attention to detail and smart solutions, starting with the table and chairs. Too tiny for a standard kitchen table, we added a table that folds down against the wall with foldable chairs that can be hung on the wall when not in use. Typically neglected space between the refrigerator and the wall was turned into spice cabinets, ceiling height uppers maximize storage, and a mirrored backsplash creates the illusion of more space. But small spaces don't have to be vacant of character, as proven by the distressed aqua cabinetry and mismatched knobs.

Private residence. Photo bu KuDa Photography.
Inspiration for a closet remodel in Portland

The new fenestration at the Great Room brings the outdoors in much better than the former individual windows did. The rear wall had to be rebuilt with 2x6 studs per the Professional Engineer's analysis due to the height and the proportion of glass to structure.

Working with interior designer Hilary Scott, Mowlem & Co has created a stylish and sympathetic bespoke kitchen for a fascinating renovation and extension project. The impressive Victorian detached house has ‘an interesting planning history’ according to Hilary. Previously it had been bedsit accommodation with 27 units but in recent years it had become derelict and neglected, until was bought by a premiere league footballer with a view to restoring it to its former glory as a family home. Situated near the Botanic Gardens in Kew and in a conservation area, there was a significant investment and considerable planning negotiation to get it returned to a single dwelling. Hilary had worked closely with the client on previous projects and had their couple’s full trust to come up with a scheme that matched their tastes and needs. Many original features were restored or replaced to remain in keeping with the architecture, for example marble and cast iron fireplaces, panelling, cornices and architraves which were considered a key fabric of the building. The most contemporary element of the renovation is the striking double height glass extension to the rear in which the kitchen and living area are positioned. The room has wonderful views out to the garden is ideal both for family life and entertaining. The extension design involved an architect for the original plans and another to project-manage the build. Then Mowlem & Co were brought in because Hilary has worked with them for many years and says they were the natural choice to achieve the high quality of finish and bespoke joinery that was required. “They have done an amazing job,” says Hilary, “the design has certain quirky touches and an individual feel that you can only get with bespoke. All the timber has traditionally made dovetail joints and other handcrafted details. This is typical of Mowlem & Co’s work …they have a fantastic team and Julia Brown, who managed this project, is a great kitchen designer.” The kitchen has been conceived to match the contemporary feel of the new extension while also having a classic feel in terms of the finishes, such as the stained oak and exposed brickwork. The furniture has been made to bespoke proportions to match the scale of the double height extension, so that it fits the architecture. The look is clean and linear in feel and the design features specially created elements such as extra wide drawers and customised storage, and a separate walk-in pantry (plus a separate utility room in the basement). The furniture has been made in flat veneered stained oak and the seamless worktops are in Corian. Cooking appliances are by Wolf and refrigeration is by Sub-Zero. The exposed brick wall of the kitchen matches the external finishes of the brickwork of the house which can be seen through the glass extension. To harmonise, a thick glass shelf has been added, masterminded by Gary Craig of Architectural Metalworkers. This is supported by a cantilevered steel frame, so while it may look deceptively light and subtle, “a serious amount of engineering has gone into it,” according to Hilary. Mowlem & Co also created further bespoke furnishings and installations, for a dressing room plus bathrooms and cloakrooms in other parts of the house. The complexity of the project to restore the entire house took over a year to finish. As the client was transferred to another team before the renovation was complete, the property is now on the market for £9 million.

The extensive use of ceramic tiles has played a central role in transforming a once-derelict, classic Victorian mansion into a beautiful and fully restored family home. The house in Nottingham’s The Park conservation area was built by the noted local architect, Thomas Hine in the 1870s but was converted into six flats in the 1960s. When the present owners took over three years ago, it was unoccupied and derelict. Many of the priceless original fittings had been torn out and dumped in the garden and the floorboards were seriously damaged or missing. The beautiful Minton tiled entrance hall was badly neglected and need of restoration. It was decided to use ceramic tiles in ten of the rooms, including the seven bathrooms, the fabulous, state of the art, supersized kitchen and the large patio area. The owners had considered using marble and natural stone but eventually went for porcelain look alikes because of their durability, low maintenance and wider variety of colours to enhance and maintain the character of the historic building. They say the extensive choice of shades, textures and formats enabled them to create a stunning interior design which would tastefully combine the neo-classical architecture with a comfortable modern look. The couple say the range was so huge they could have any feel or ambiance they wanted. Their choice included a selection of Versace products because the colours and stylish designs were exactly right for the Victorian property. East Midlands Ceramics was the chosen supplier and the company worked closely with the main contractor, Gary Cutts, who has distinguished track record in the restoration of classic and listed buildings. The owners say: “EMCs role was absolutely invaluable. They connected completely with the project and gave us very useful suggestions and advice. “For example, EMC’s Stephen Slawson told us Versace were about to bring out a new range which would be ideal for us – which it was. They kept us right up to date with everything.” The Minton tiled floor was restored by using an EMC Tiles - recommended Tilemaster cleaning machine and cleaning solutions, designed to bring discoloured and neglected original tiles back to their former glory. EMC Tiles sales director, Stephen Slawson, co-ordinated the project for the company. He said: “This was a multi-faceted project involving an exceptionally wide range of products, formats, materials, skills and techniques – all of which show our industry at its very best. “We recommended a specialist to restore the Victorian Minton floor, using the latest machinery. Versace tiles were used extensively, especially the Marble series, which was newly launched at the time of fixing. The distinctive medusa panel was showcased in two bathrooms. Large format 80x80 polished porcelain was used in the kitchen, with intricate featured inserts and taco. A patio using 20mm thick porcelain was fixed conventionally and a balcony, again using 20mm porcelain was fitted using pedestals. Wood look alike floor tiles created a harmonious flow from the fully fitted gym to the area surrounding the indoor pool. We supplied all the appropriate materials to ensure the highest quality of stability and finish. EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson, said: “This was a massive undertaking – involving 650 square meters of tiles. Stephen took personal charge of our involvement with both the contractor and the customer, to make sure everything ran smoothly. The Park is one of Nottingham’s premium conservation areas – where property owners are painstaking in their efforts to maintain the character, appearance and prime condition of their unique and individual period houses. This meant that there was an exceptionally high demand to meet the most exacting standards. Ceramic and porcelain tiles were the ideal materials for this type of project – hardwearing, stylish and in keeping with the classic building. We didn’t just supply of new tiles but we also provided the techniques and materials to restore the original Minton floor. The use of porcelain tiles inside and out creates a unifying factor in this wonderful period property that I’m sure even the Victorian architect, Thomas Hine, would have approved of.” Photo credit: TTA Member East Midlands Ceramics

The extensive use of ceramic tiles has played a central role in transforming a once-derelict, classic Victorian mansion into a beautiful and fully restored family home. The house in Nottingham’s The Park conservation area was built by the noted local architect, Thomas Hine in the 1870s but was converted into six flats in the 1960s. When the present owners took over three years ago, it was unoccupied and derelict. Many of the priceless original fittings had been torn out and dumped in the garden and the floorboards were seriously damaged or missing. The beautiful Minton tiled entrance hall was badly neglected and need of restoration. It was decided to use ceramic tiles in ten of the rooms, including the seven bathrooms, the fabulous, state of the art, supersized kitchen and the large patio area. The owners had considered using marble and natural stone but eventually went for porcelain look alikes because of their durability, low maintenance and wider variety of colours to enhance and maintain the character of the historic building. They say the extensive choice of shades, textures and formats enabled them to create a stunning interior design which would tastefully combine the neo-classical architecture with a comfortable modern look. The couple say the range was so huge they could have any feel or ambiance they wanted. Their choice included a selection of Versace products because the colours and stylish designs were exactly right for the Victorian property. East Midlands Ceramics was the chosen supplier and the company worked closely with the main contractor, Gary Cutts, who has distinguished track record in the restoration of classic and listed buildings. The owners say: “EMCs role was absolutely invaluable. They connected completely with the project and gave us very useful suggestions and advice. “For example, EMC’s Stephen Slawson told us Versace were about to bring out a new range which would be ideal for us – which it was. They kept us right up to date with everything.” The Minton tiled floor was restored by using an EMC Tiles - recommended Tilemaster cleaning machine and cleaning solutions, designed to bring discoloured and neglected original tiles back to their former glory. EMC Tiles sales director, Stephen Slawson, co-ordinated the project for the company. He said: “This was a multi-faceted project involving an exceptionally wide range of products, formats, materials, skills and techniques – all of which show our industry at its very best. “We recommended a specialist to restore the Victorian Minton floor, using the latest machinery. Versace tiles were used extensively, especially the Marble series, which was newly launched at the time of fixing. The distinctive medusa panel was showcased in two bathrooms. Large format 80x80 polished porcelain was used in the kitchen, with intricate featured inserts and taco. A patio using 20mm thick porcelain was fixed conventionally and a balcony, again using 20mm porcelain was fitted using pedestals. Wood look alike floor tiles created a harmonious flow from the fully fitted gym to the area surrounding the indoor pool. We supplied all the appropriate materials to ensure the highest quality of stability and finish. EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson, said: “This was a massive undertaking – involving 650 square meters of tiles. Stephen took personal charge of our involvement with both the contractor and the customer, to make sure everything ran smoothly. The Park is one of Nottingham’s premium conservation areas – where property owners are painstaking in their efforts to maintain the character, appearance and prime condition of their unique and individual period houses. This meant that there was an exceptionally high demand to meet the most exacting standards. Ceramic and porcelain tiles were the ideal materials for this type of project – hardwearing, stylish and in keeping with the classic building. We didn’t just supply of new tiles but we also provided the techniques and materials to restore the original Minton floor. The use of porcelain tiles inside and out creates a unifying factor in this wonderful period property that I’m sure even the Victorian architect, Thomas Hine, would have approved of.” Photo credit: TTA Member East Midlands Ceramics

Wow, we thoroughly enjoyed this project! This was not the first time we have been able to work along side this incredible family. Their organization throughout the process and amazing design sense truly brought this project together into the spectacular dream estate they now call home. Normally when we go into a large scale renovation, the surprises never seem to stop. This is because individuals take it upon themselves to superficially fix problems instead of correcting the root of the issue and then working forward from that point. This is not just the case with home owners but also with contractors limited by budget or ethics! We love working with this family because they want things done right and bought a home that was extremely well built. It was a little rough around the edges because of neglect and age but that all changed quite quickly. The family knew what they wanted and that was to maintain the stunning exterior in it's original glory but to bring the interior to modern day design with a warm contemporary flavor. This also meant a much more open concept floor plan. Demolition was extensive but we were extremely pleased to be able to provide a single mother with the reclaimed fir floors and all of the bathroom fixtures and part of the kitchen went to the Restore in Langford. We were also able to recycle a large portion of the material pulled out. Our industry is a scary one at times with it's emphasis on form over function, and we feel great about how much we were able to combat this throughout our time spent on this job. Features include - winding solid oak stairs; espresso stained, hand scraped oak floors to match with cork underlayment; a curved glass master steam shower that is a marvelous work of art; a rotating tv that can be viewed from both the elegant soaker tub or the master bedroom; fully automated interior with an integrated sound system and video intercom; a wall to wall custom espresso closet; custom built-ins in the side entrance and formal dining areas; a custom kitchen that is draped by a spectacular coffered ceiling; two elaborate, custom cedar decks; and much more! A large thank you, again, goes out to the clients for inviting us into there home, into there lives, and into there family. Never have we felt so welcome and thus so eager to make something very special. Also a thank you to the team we have been blessed to work with including amazingly talented joiners, painters, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, plasterers, tilers, architect and general all around incredible helpers (you all know who you are).

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo: Lisa Castagner

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo Lisa Castagner

Working with interior designer Hilary Scott, Mowlem & Co has created a stylish and sympathetic bespoke kitchen for a fascinating renovation and extension project. The impressive Victorian detached house has ‘an interesting planning history’ according to Hilary. Previously it had been bedsit accommodation with 27 units but in recent years it had become derelict and neglected, until was bought by a premiere league footballer with a view to restoring it to its former glory as a family home. Situated near the Botanic Gardens in Kew and in a conservation area, there was a significant investment and considerable planning negotiation to get it returned to a single dwelling. Hilary had worked closely with the client on previous projects and had their couple’s full trust to come up with a scheme that matched their tastes and needs. Many original features were restored or replaced to remain in keeping with the architecture, for example marble and cast iron fireplaces, panelling, cornices and architraves which were considered a key fabric of the building. The most contemporary element of the renovation is the striking double height glass extension to the rear in which the kitchen and living area are positioned. The room has wonderful views out to the garden is ideal both for family life and entertaining. The extension design involved an architect for the original plans and another to project-manage the build. Then Mowlem & Co were brought in because Hilary has worked with them for many years and says they were the natural choice to achieve the high quality of finish and bespoke joinery that was required. “They have done an amazing job,” says Hilary, “the design has certain quirky touches and an individual feel that you can only get with bespoke. All the timber has traditionally made dovetail joints and other handcrafted details. This is typical of Mowlem & Co’s work …they have a fantastic team and Julia Brown, who managed this project, is a great kitchen designer.” The kitchen has been conceived to match the contemporary feel of the new extension while also having a classic feel in terms of the finishes, such as the stained oak and exposed brickwork. The furniture has been made to bespoke proportions to match the scale of the double height extension, so that it fits the architecture. The look is clean and linear in feel and the design features specially created elements such as extra wide drawers and customised storage, and a separate walk-in pantry (plus a separate utility room in the basement). The furniture has been made in flat veneered stained oak and the seamless worktops are in Corian. Cooking appliances are by Wolf and refrigeration is by Sub-Zero. The exposed brick wall of the kitchen matches the external finishes of the brickwork of the house which can be seen through the glass extension. To harmonise, a thick glass shelf has been added, masterminded by Gary Craig of Architectural Metalworkers. This is supported by a cantilevered steel frame, so while it may look deceptively light and subtle, “a serious amount of engineering has gone into it,” according to Hilary. Mowlem & Co also created further bespoke furnishings and installations, for a dressing room plus bathrooms and cloakrooms in other parts of the house. The complexity of the project to restore the entire house took over a year to finish. As the client was transferred to another team before the renovation was complete, the property is now on the market for £9 million.

Working with interior designer Hilary Scott, Mowlem & Co has created a stylish and sympathetic bespoke kitchen for a fascinating renovation and extension project. The impressive Victorian detached house has ‘an interesting planning history’ according to Hilary. Previously it had been bedsit accommodation with 27 units but in recent years it had become derelict and neglected, until was bought by a premiere league footballer with a view to restoring it to its former glory as a family home. Situated near the Botanic Gardens in Kew and in a conservation area, there was a significant investment and considerable planning negotiation to get it returned to a single dwelling. Hilary had worked closely with the client on previous projects and had their couple’s full trust to come up with a scheme that matched their tastes and needs. Many original features were restored or replaced to remain in keeping with the architecture, for example marble and cast iron fireplaces, panelling, cornices and architraves which were considered a key fabric of the building. The most contemporary element of the renovation is the striking double height glass extension to the rear in which the kitchen and living area are positioned. The room has wonderful views out to the garden is ideal both for family life and entertaining. The extension design involved an architect for the original plans and another to project-manage the build. Then Mowlem & Co were brought in because Hilary has worked with them for many years and says they were the natural choice to achieve the high quality of finish and bespoke joinery that was required. “They have done an amazing job,” says Hilary, “the design has certain quirky touches and an individual feel that you can only get with bespoke. All the timber has traditionally made dovetail joints and other handcrafted details. This is typical of Mowlem & Co’s work …they have a fantastic team and Julia Brown, who managed this project, is a great kitchen designer.” The kitchen has been conceived to match the contemporary feel of the new extension while also having a classic feel in terms of the finishes, such as the stained oak and exposed brickwork. The furniture has been made to bespoke proportions to match the scale of the double height extension, so that it fits the architecture. The look is clean and linear in feel and the design features specially created elements such as extra wide drawers and customised storage, and a separate walk-in pantry (plus a separate utility room in the basement). The furniture has been made in flat veneered stained oak and the seamless worktops are in Corian. Cooking appliances are by Wolf and refrigeration is by Sub-Zero. The exposed brick wall of the kitchen matches the external finishes of the brickwork of the house which can be seen through the glass extension. To harmonise, a thick glass shelf has been added, masterminded by Gary Craig of Architectural Metalworkers. This is supported by a cantilevered steel frame, so while it may look deceptively light and subtle, “a serious amount of engineering has gone into it,” according to Hilary. Mowlem & Co also created further bespoke furnishings and installations, for a dressing room plus bathrooms and cloakrooms in other parts of the house. The complexity of the project to restore the entire house took over a year to finish. As the client was transferred to another team before the renovation was complete, the property is now on the market for £9 million.

Havisham This lamp is a twist on a classical shape. It is cast in a bronze resin and hand finished in gold leaf, giving it an air of fabulous neglect. The shade is a gold metallic voile backed with a bronze silk. This lamp design is a limited edition of 20. It will be delivered to you with its own certificate of authenticity and individual number.

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo: Lisa Castagner

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo: Lisa Castagner

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo: Lisa Castagner

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo: Lisa Castagner

The conversion of a large attic space is, in this project, the opportunity to release the potential of a trapped space. Underused, neglected and relegated to the storage of forgotten belongings, the design of the roof space becomes the revelation of concealed possibilities. The outline for the project is the transformation of the cathedral-like timber structure under the roof into a self-contained space, separate from the rest of the house. And to a degree the architecture too is part of the brief, as the client has indicated that naval architecture should become a source of inspiration for the architect. The roof is reminiscent of a steep capsized keel and is extended to the north to create a gable-ended façade and to re-balance the front elevation, while dormers are inserted into the front and rear slopes to create dual-aspect interiors. The stairwell is located centrally to the floor plan to emphasize the ascent and generate an architectural focal point that organizes the arrangement of the spaces around it. It has a swinging form, inspired by the mechanism of the periscope, that bounces users in one direction and then the other. The stair thus acts as a sort of sextant that measures the position of the individual in relation to the surrounding space. The converted roof is designed ad hoc from the inside out, inviting users to engage with the outside either through windows or via the telescope-like elongated crawl space adjacent to the stair enclosure. It will accommodate a bedroom, a bathroom and study area open onto the landing and stairwell. Photo: Lisa Castagner