How do you extend a white building while maintaining its character and enhancing its presence? This was the central question for a recent project, where our client’s home - a 1970s end-of-terrace rendered in white - called for a thoughtful extension that not only complemented its existing aesthetic but also brought new life to the space. In the local area, many extensions have been made, but few have engaged meaningfully with the character of the original buildings. Instead, many have resorted to cladding dormers in tiles, which often feel disconnected from the main structure.

For this project, we explored how a change in colour at the loft level could create a more cohesive design. By introducing a subtle shift in hue, we envisioned a dormer that would blend more naturally with the existing building while also creating a sense of intersection, as though the main structure itself was emerging from the roof. This would not only unify the old and new but also provide visual interest, allowing the extension to feel like a continuation rather than an addition.

We also considered the weather conditions in London - specifically, the frequent grey skies - and how they might play a role in the design. A dormer in a tone that mirrored the often -overcast London sky would allow the extension to subtly blend in, creating a beautiful, understated effect that celebrated the city’s unique atmosphere. The result would be an extension that is both architecturally coherent and responsive to its environment, ensuring that the original home’s charm is preserved while introducing modern sensibilities.