Proctor & Shaw’s Hope Villa extension

A serene blend of contemporary minimalism and natural warmth, this extension by Proctor & Shaw frames a lush courtyard through expansive glazing—merging indoor comfort with a tranquil garden retreat.

Proctor & Shaw
Peckham, London

Proctor & Shaw’s Hope Villa extension in Peckham is a striking example of contemporary residential architecture, skillfully balancing form and function. Clad in narrow, vertically laid Accoya timber battens, the extension introduces a refined yet natural aesthetic that harmonizes with its surroundings. The project embraces a "reduce, reuse, renew" philosophy by retaining the steel structure of the previous extension while introducing a new timber framework. Responding to planning constraints, the design cleverly expands upwards, creating a dramatic double-height "tower" living space with high-level windows that channel daylight deep into the home.

A defining feature of the extension is its tiered rooftop garden, where the high parapet has been transformed into a productive allotment. This approach not only resolves the existing awkward massing but also introduces a new dynamic to the home's spatial organization. The interplay between the interior and exterior is enhanced by a full-height sliding glass door, which opens the skylit dining space to a newly landscaped rain garden. Inside, birch-lined walls conceal services and storage, maintaining a seamless and uncluttered aesthetic.

At the rear of the garden, a separate studio building functions as a flexible space, adaptable for use as a gym, workspace, or additional living area. This thoughtful addition enhances the functionality of the property while maintaining a strong architectural dialogue with the main house. Through its careful composition of materials, spatial ingenuity, and sensitive integration with its site, Hope Villa stands as an elegant and intelligent response to the challenges of urban living.