Aldley Road - a modern rear extension to a brick house with full height glass and stepped garden

Aldley Road

This extension transforms a traditional Victorian townhouse into a contemporary family home, redefining the connection between interior living spaces and the garden. Set within a dense urban terrace, the design replaces a dated rear addition with a light-filled extension that combines functionality, craftsmanship, and understated elegance.

Client

Ms. Pearson

Client

Ms. Pearson

Location

Surrey, United Kingdom

Location

Surrey, United Kingdom

Size

650sqft

Size

650sqft

Type

Extension

Type

Extension

Category

Residential Architecture

Category

Residential Architecture

Services

Architecture, Technical Design, Project Management

Services

Architecture, Technical Design, Project Management

Year

2024

Year

2024

Status

In Progress

Status

In Progress

Project Overview

The Garden Room Extension transforms a traditional Victorian townhouse into a contemporary family home, redefining the connection between interior living spaces and the garden. Set within a dense urban terrace, the design replaces a dated rear addition with a light-filled extension that combines functionality, craftsmanship, and understated elegance.

Design Approach

The new structure is carefully embedded within the landscaped garden, stepping down to follow the natural topography of the site. A palette of warm brick, stone, and glass ensures a seamless relationship between old and new, while full-height glazing allows the kitchen and dining areas to flow effortlessly into the outdoor terrace. The restrained architectural language celebrates proportion and detail, complementing the character of the original Victorian façade.

Spatial Layout

The extension creates a generous open-plan kitchen and dining area at garden level, designed for everyday family life and entertaining. Large sliding glass doors flood the interior with daylight and provide uninterrupted views of the sunken courtyard garden. The use of consistent materials from interior to exterior blurs the boundary between house and landscape, creating a calm, cohesive atmosphere.

Sustainability & Materials

Sustainably sourced brickwork, thermally efficient glazing, and robust natural stone finishes contribute to the longevity and environmental performance of the project. The design maximises passive light and heat gain, minimising the need for artificial lighting and mechanical heating throughout the day.

Outcome

The Garden Room Extension is a timeless and refined addition that enhances both the character and comfort of the original townhouse. The result is a beautifully balanced home — one that respects its Victorian heritage while embracing contemporary family living.

We wanted to create more space for family life without losing the charm of our Victorian home, and the result couldn’t be more perfect. The new extension feels bright, calm, and beautifully connected to the garden — it’s transformed how we use the house every day. The attention to detail has been exceptional.

Ms. Pearson

Private Client