sneyd park retrofit
This project presents a unique opportunity to retrofit and extend an existing building of poor environmental performance and limited architectural merit with an exemplary low energy mid-century modern building in bristol’s prestigious sneyd park conservation area.
The clients' original plan was to knock down and replace the existing house, but after completing a feasibility study it was deemed that retrofitting, remodelling and renovating was a better option. The site is in a conservation area in Sneyd Park which opposes the demolition of existing buildings. Maintaining and retrofitting the existing building rather than demolishing it will be vastly better in terms of environmental impact, whilst still achieving an extraordinary transformation.
The existing house was built in the 1950s, and the proposed house is to be a contemporary interpretation of mid-century design which simultaneously resonates with the context of the conservation area. The internal layout and materials will be carefully chosen to enhance the unique mid-century essence of the home (notable American examples from the era were given to us by the clients) while also supporting a contemporary feel. For the clients, who are passionate about gardening, protecting the biodiversity of the garden and green space around the building is of utmost importance.
It is the intention of the project that the retrofitted home will provide a precedent for how an outdated house can be updated and improved to bring it up to modern environmental standards whilst maintaining the overall character of the building.
