Garden Studio, Bushmore Crescent

Located in the Shrewsbury Park Estate Conservation Area, a 1930’s estate designed on the Garden City principal and constructed by the house builder, John Laing and Son near Shooter’s Hill, Mark Fairhurst Architects has designed and obtained planning consent for an ingenious garden studio to a family house.

The client wanted a peaceful space to practice piano and study whilst also remaining sensitive to the surrounding context and existing house. The project entailed the restoration and replacement of different elements at front and rear elevation including: the removal of the entrance porch revealing the characteristic arched doorway; relocation of the entrance gate to the side of the front garden as originally designed; as well as the demolition, reconstruction and extension of the existing garage.

The concept of the studio design was derived by the restriction of the new studio being visible from the road this led to the reinstatement of the garage in line with the conservation design guidance. The studio is a continuation of the garage volume located to the rear garden of the property with the addition of a large bay window to one side providing views of the surrounding trees to the rear and flooding daylight to the interior. The ground level is lowered to allow a generous ceiling height.
The former garage area is unsuitable for parking due to its small dimensions; therefore, it will be converted to a utility space for both the existing house and new extension where a laundry room and walk-in shower room will be located.
The scheme is a thoughtful design solution maximising the development of the existing garden area whilst preserving and enhancing the character of the Conservation Area.