Mid-Century Modern House
Retrofit, basement extension & landscape
KOA Architecture was appointed across RIBA Stages 0–5 for the transformation of an existing 1960s bungalow in Nottingham. The project reinterprets the character of the original dwelling through a contemporary intervention: a rear basement extension, remodelled roof and dormer, extensive glazing, internal reconfiguration, terraces and an integrated approach to the rear landscape.
Rather than treating the house as a building to be replaced or concealed, the design developed from research into its 1960s origins. Archival research established that the original dwelling was granted permission in 1964 with a basement, upper-level accommodation and a garden terrace, and this history became an important part of the planning and design strategy.
The concept draws on characteristic mid-century ideas: strong horizontal roof lines, expressed structure, generous glazing, open-plan living and architecture integrated with landscape, translated into a contemporary proposal rather than reproduced as pastiche.
Designing around the client
The architecture, interior and landscape were developed as interconnected environments around the client’s circumstances, wellbeing and love of vintage and mid-century design. Proposed features include a conversation pit, a feature staircase, open-plan social spaces and strong visual connections between floor levels.
The client’s health requirements also shaped the design: daylight, outlook, movement through the house and access to external spaces all formed important parts of the process.
Planning, refusal and redesign
An earlier proposal was refused, principally over its scale and built form and the potential effect on neighbouring amenity. KOA developed a revised response informed by the property’s planning history, consultation and the original 1964 design, retaining the ambition of the concept while reconsidering scale, roof treatment, privacy and external form.
The revised application proposed a rear basement extension, new roof design, alterations to the rear dormer, five rooflights and a decking area. Planning permission was granted subject to conditions on 21 September 2021.
Retrofit, sustainability and reuse
A central principle of the project is retaining and transforming an existing dwelling rather than redeveloping it. Improvements to the envelope, roof and glazing sit alongside a sustainable drainage approach, while the architecture seeks to improve daylight and environmental performance.
Architecture, interiors and landscape
The sloping site steps down towards the rear garden, allowing the basement level to open directly onto terraces and landscape. Glazing, changes in level and the relationship between basement and garden create a gradual transition between inside and out.
From concept to construction
KOA’s involvement has continued from briefing and conceptual investigation through planning, technical development and construction. The progression from hand sketches to planning drawings, Building Regulations information and construction details shows the mid-century concept becoming a buildable proposal. The project is currently under construction.
- Location
- Nottingham
- Role
- Architectural Designer
- Stages
- RIBA Stages 0–5
- Status
- Under construction
- Scope
- Feasibility and concept design, Architectural research, Planning design and resubmission, Design development, Building Regulations, Technical design, Construction-stage support, Landscape design coordination
- Recognition
- Nominated for consideration for Channel 4’s Extraordinary Extensions