Construction Update V5 - York Road, Leamington Spa

[Newly defined rear façade using stone, brick and structural glass]

Unity Architects' conservation project on York Road, Leamington Spa, has reached a highly anticipated milestone. The structural glazing has now been successfully installed, fully defining the "infinite ceiling" concept and bringing the original architectural vision to life.

The monumental 440mm thick 'garden wall', which previously stood independently awaiting the glass, is now seamlessly integrated with the delicate, highly engineered structural glass enclosure. As beautifully captured within the site photographs, the juxtaposition between the textured facing brickwork and the pristine, contemporary glazing creates a compelling visual dynamic. This fulfils the fundamental driver of the project: to deliver a lasting, memorable architectural statement.

[Cantilevered ‘garden wall’ delicately touched by the structural glass roof]

The spatial generosity of the newly formed footprint is indisputable. An abundance of natural daylight powerfully penetrates the deep plan spaces, illuminating the interior volume. The structural glass roof successfully blurs the boundary between shelter and sky, while the newly installed large-format sliding doors (currently retaining their protective blue film) promise an unhindered physical and visual connection to the private rear garden.

[Dynamic internal spaces flooded with natural daylight]

With reference to the newly defined rear façade, the external materials of stone, brick and glass create dynamism via sections of solid and void. The material palette successfully blends old and new components in a harmonious way. The transparent addition touches the original host dwelling lightly, maintaining critical sightlines from the host dwelling whilst introducing a striking contemporary language to the rear elevation.

[Focal oriel window with structural glazing]

With the building envelope now secure and the internal sense of space fully tangible, the project will shortly advance into the final stages of the internal fit-out and finishing. We remain highly energised as we watch this exceptional addition to the Leamington Spa Conservation Area approach practical completion.

Click here to read more about the project and to see how the original design was beautifully crafted by Unity Architects.

Are you looking for house extension architects in Leamington Spa? Contact us to discuss your project and see how Unity Architects can transform your property.

Expert Content Written by: Jason Laity BA(Hons) DipArch DipAP RIBA [Founding Director and Principal Architect] of Unity Architects.