Garden Lodge
Living with Nature in Harpenden
A modern interpretation of Edwardian elegance, this award-winning pavilions ensemble showcases unique roofs that blend the lodge with its lush garden.
Garden Lodge is a celebration of thoughtful, eco-friendly design, where the timeless charm of an Edwardian Lodge meets a considered modern extension. Composed of three distinct volumes, the new addition respects the original building’s massing and proportions, ensuring it sits harmoniously alongside the historic structure. Two of the volumes contain the kitchen/dining and living areas, while the detached third volume, tucked discretely to one side, provides a gym and hangout space for the family’s teenagers.
Pitched roofs crowned with frameless skylights draw daylight deep into the luxury interiors, all while remaining invisible from the street. This minimalist treatment preserves the Lodge’s dignified frontage and accentuates the airy feel inside. A reimagined, design-focused layout establishes a central axis through the home, culminating at a see-through fireplace that both marks this axis and frames the view outdoors. Angled corners of the new extension further embrace the garden and a prominent tree, inviting nature in at every turn. The result is a transition between old and new, where the historic character is preserved, the modern spaces are sustainable, practical, and low-maintenance, and the garden is always part of the experience.
Light : Large Zenith Rooflights
Light is an essential element in this house, invigorating the white painted brick walls with natural brightness from above. The renowned, cutting-edge roof forms feature strategically placed skylights that let sunlight pour in, forming zenithal pools of radiance throughout the interior. This infusion of daylight fosters a sense of tranquillity and connection to nature, enhancing the home’s airy atmosphere. Here, each day begins bathed in warm, energising light, contributing to a calm, top-tier living experience.
Craft : Brick and Concrete
Craftsmanship is at the heart of this home’s design, evident in every meticulously considered detail. Externally, beautifully articulated brickwork and roof tiles match the original house, ensuring the best visual harmony. Inside, the polished concrete floor sweeps seamlessly outdoors, inviting the landscape into the living spaces. By bridging elements, our award-winning London architects have preserved the historic character while integrating contemporary refinement, creating a home that feels both timeless and perfectly crafted.
