EXTENSION PROJECT

The rendered extension, with its wrap-around staircase, also acts as a stylish roof terrace

Two flatstoone familyhome

NEIL TAYLOR, FOUNDER OF TAP ARCHITECTS, EXPLAINS HOW A CURVED REAR EXTENSION AND WRAP-AROUND OUTDOOR STAIRCASE TRANSFORMED TWO GEORGIAN FLATS INTO A FAMILY HOME WITH THE WOW FACTOR

HOME NOTES

HOMEOWNERS

James and Jonna Dempsey PROPERTY

Four-bedroom Georgian villa in Edinburgh ARCHITECT

TAP Architects (taparchitects.co.uk) BUILDERS

Ramsay Built TOTAL COST £150,000*

The unusual curved shape of the lobby is complemented by minimal decor A picture window adds extra light and views over the garden

THE PROBLEM Putting a Georgian villa back together after it had been made into two flats

THE SOLUTION

‘After meeting with the homeowners we conceived the idea of a single-storey extension with a roof terrace and external stair wrapping around into the garden. Steps were also added to the garden patio to connect the lower ground level via a small sunken courtyard. When assessing the house we could see the remnants of a half round stair tower that had once existed on the back so we followed the same form and geometry for the new extension, as the owners wanted to be sensitive to the Georgian buildings in this part of Edinburgh. An extensive renovation was undertaken inside to move the bedrooms downstairs and living areas into the upstairs rooms. The effect is totally transformative for the feel of light in the home and connection to the garden.’

With a listed or period property, allow a lot of time for discussion with your architect “ and ensure you’ve ticked off all of your requirements"

NEIL TAYLOR, TAP ARCHITECTS

FOCUS ON external stairs

Neil Taylor shares his must-have requirements

1BEFORE YOU BUY ensure your desired staircase will comply with building regulations.

2BASE YOUR DESIGN around who will be using the staircase. Backless stairs look cool, but might not be suita for everyone.

3SIZE AND SHAPE of the staircase should be dictated by the space. This design matches the property’s period style.

4THINK ABOUT DRAINAGE before choosing the materials and design, especially if it’s not attached to a mezzanine or roof terrace with a drainage system.

5USE OF MATERIALS should be guided by the age of the building. Steel can feel modern, light and airy, while a more solid look may suit a modern traditional design.

The new curved staircase reinstates direct access to the garden as well as being an elegant and modern design statement The curved shape of the lobby and boot room entrance gives an almost theatrical look to the space