Stealth Extension

This extension to an existing garden flat in Highgate introduces contemporary architecture to a sensitive context.

Located within the heart of a conservation area, the proposal forms a new kitchen at the rear of the property, with full-height glazed walls opening out on to the mature garden.

The use of highly-reflective glazed panels, some up to 3.5m high, results in a form which is effectively hidden during the day, reflecting the surrounding greenery of the mature, south-facing garden beyond.

These works include a full-height pivoting bookcase, operated by a pneumatic floor spring, which opens to reveal a secret entrance to the master bedroom.

The architect and contract administrator for the project was RCKA, whose special projects division design one-off schemes for residential customers. Like the name suggests their schemes aim to present something out of the ordinary and they seek to incorporate design features that are both a challenge to create and a pleasant environment in which to live.