A striking project full of small delights and skilful solutions
Kate Darby Architects and David Connor Design for Kate Darby and David Connor
Contract value: £160,000
GIA: 115m²
Croft Lodge Studio, a striking project full of small delights and skilful solutions, boldly encapsulates the remains of a 17th century cottage into a modern house. A minimalist black box clad in corrugated metal with large openings, it sits well in its surroundings, without pastoral sweetness or prettiness.
The new building wraps the old with care, and has merits of its own. The composition of the facade is balanced and driven by the location of the original structure. Inside, spaces are surprisingly welcoming, with the old adding theatre and poetry. The contrast is enjoyable, demonstrating confidence and maturity. The take on conservation is unusual. Its bluntness might be questioned, but it is stimulating and intriguing.
See the other winners of the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 – West Midlands