Approach House, Shrewsbury, Shropshire

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Reworking of a 1970s house

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This refurbishment re-established architectural coherence to a house that had been gradually altered over many years. Previously, a steep driveway and prominent garage dominated the front elevation, with the main entrance hidden away at the rear. The landscape was resculpted to accommodate a new garage and parking area, discreetly tucked behind a sandstone wall and mature hedge. The driveway gradient was reduced, and new steps, softened by tiered planting, now lead visitors to a generous porch.

 

The apparent bulk of the house and its external deck was reduced and rationalised into distinct horizontal layers of materials; timber cladding, render and brickwork.  The new, spacious entrance hall, with interiors by C&O Architects, incorporates integrated storage, a concealed door to a home office, and a sweeping staircase leading up to the reconfigured open-plan living spaces.