Project Details
The second phase of a small mixed-use development, the infill house occupies a narrow slot in a 19th century terrace which gave access to a coach house. Patel Taylor’s design retains access to a workspace studio, and provides a markedly contemporary home within the 19th century urban gain.
Its glass screen facade ensures privacy and light, making the spaces behind quite distinct from those in a Victorian house. It adds to the character of the street, while sitting easily within the terrace of its 19th century neighbours.
The design shows how a modern living space, with economic value, and ideally suited to urban life, can be conjured from modest ‘leftover’ spaces in the city.
The process for the facade began with an image of agate, provided by Professor Richard Weston of Cardiff University. The image was enlarged, printed onto silk and laminated between two panels of toughened glass. The glass was then fitted to form the original agate design.
Sunday Times Small House of the Year 2012
Hourglass used their glass laminating process to encapsulate the silk print between two pieces of toughened glass using EVA film. The resulting 42 panels were then installed to re-create the original photograph of the sliced agate.