Algiers House | Low-Energy Retrofit and Extension

Algiers House has evolved through a close, iterative collaboration between the client and Arboreal Architecture. The project reimagines an existing family home through a considered programme of retrofit, extension and spatial reconfiguration, improving energy performance while creating a more generous and adaptable living environment for a growing family.

Rather than treating the house as a blank canvas, the design works with the existing building, combining targeted interventions with a clear architectural approach to daylight, thermal comfort and the relationship between interior and garden. The result is a home that better accommodates contemporary family life while making more effective use of the existing structure.

Ground Floor Extension

A new rear extension expands the ground floor, bringing together the original rear room and the new addition to form an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. Set at a slightly lower level, the extension introduces a subtle change in spatial character while establishing a stronger connection with the south-facing garden.

The reconfigured plan accommodates different patterns of everyday use, from shared meals and family gatherings to quieter moments of relaxation. Integrated storage and carefully arranged living zones maintain a sense of order without compromising flexibility.

Generous glazing and rooflights bring natural light deeper into the interior, helping to create a bright and welcoming space. Their placement forms part of a considered daylighting strategy, balancing access to sunlight with the need to manage solar gain and minimise the risk of overheating.

A Transition Between House and Garden

A new external deck extends the living space into the garden, creating an intermediate zone between the interior and the landscape. This threshold supports a range of activities, including outdoor dining, play and relaxation, allowing the garden to function as a natural extension of the home throughout the warmer months.

The relationship between the extension, deck and south-facing garden gives the ground floor a more open character, strengthening the connection between daily domestic life and the outdoors.

Loft Conversion

At roof level, the loft is transformed into a flexible space that serves as both a home office and occasional guest accommodation. A new rear dormer increases the usable floor area, while an additional window on the eastern elevation introduces daylight and views across the garden.

The design balances practical requirements with a sense of openness, creating a space that can adapt as the family's needs change. By making better use of the existing roof volume, the conversion adds functional space within the house's established footprint, complementing the improvements made at ground-floor level.

Project Information

Location: Ladywell, Lewisham, South-east London

Building type: Existing single-family house

Scope of works: Low-energy refurbishment, rear ground-floor extension, internal reconfiguration and loft conversion

Key features:

• Rear extension creating an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area

• Improved spatial flow and connection to the south-facing garden

• External deck extending the living environment outdoors

• Loft conversion providing flexible home office and guest accommodation

• Rear dormer and additional eastern window to improve daylight and usability

• Daylighting and glazing strategies designed with solar gain and overheating in mind

• Building fabric improvements to support energy efficiency and thermal comfort

• Integrated storage and adaptable spaces for evolving family needs

Photos and visuals: Arboreal Architecture