OLD PALACE LANE

A row of cottages dating back to the first half of the 19th century, adjacent to the site of Richmond Palace and within the Richmond Riverside Conservation Area.

We were approached by the owner of one of the properties to explore the possibility of undertaking a loft conversion with rear dormer. Following a pre-application we successfully gained permission for the design.

Due to space restrictions, we had to ensure that the proposal was as efficient as possible. This involved some layout changes to the existing house, including replacement of the ground to first floor staircase, and lowering of the ceiling in the first floor.To avoid the lowered ceilings becoming a problem we introduced large volume spaces where possible.

In order to further enhance spatial efficiency, and ensure compliance with the building regulations, we worked with a fire engineer to avoid the need for the normal fire compartmentation and enclosed escape routes, which would have used up valuable space.