case study
keep clean. It was the only question mark I had and I’m now delighted we chose it.” On site the builders initially assumed they should go to Tom with any questions, but they quickly realised they were better off consulting with Chiara. “I had to learn all the building words to communicate with them in English but it was a very pleasant experience,” adds Chiara. “I got a builder’s update every day, part of the reason why we didn’t move out during the works was so we were there keeping an eye on things.” Tom says that as long as he’s got room for his fishing gear and book collection (5,000 strong), he’s happy. “Just don’t touch my bookshelves!” he jokes. “The living room is the core of the house, by nature it’s very dark and we maintained that – even though the walls are a light colour there’s a warm dark feel depending on the light that hits it. In winter it’s great with the telly and fireplace.”
Chiara chose not to add a door connecting the living room (above) to the newly extended studio (bottom) 3D plans helped Chiara and Tom visualise the design and also made it clearer for builders on site. Top left: Ensuite bathroom serving the new studio.
A 3D build
The designer, who is a chartered engineer,
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