The Burrow

Urban

Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a surprising oasis from its urban setting.

Overview

Size
100m2
Location
Muswell Hill, London
Plot type
Urban
Build cost
£5000/m2
Performance
Embodied energy

Realising a couple's dream to build their own sustainable oasis in the heart of a London suburb that they had grown to love. This self-build journey had all the ingredients for a 'Grand Designs' episode. A challenging site, high performance aspirations, bespoke architecture and clients with an unwavering determination to make the right decisions despite the hurdles they faced.

'The Burrow' is a stunning new home that offers an example of what is possible for infill and back land developments. From the outside, it may seem compact and understated but, once inside, it gives back in spades!

Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting.

The Challenge

Long-time residents of Muswell Hill, Andrew and Christina sought to transition from periodic renters to permanent residents by creating their forever home. Their dream was to construct a sustainable residence that respected its urban context while offering a retreat from city life. The challenge was substantial: a narrow, overgrown plot burdened with restrictive urban guidelines and a need for a creative architectural response.

Design & Innovation

'The Burrow' is a semi-submerged two-bedroom home, thoughtfully designed to maximise space and natural light. The design journey began with a critical evaluation of an existing approval, leading to significant modifications tailored to the clients' aspirations. This included enhancing the basement's liveability with strategic lightwells and reorienting living spaces for optimal light and flow. The meticulous placement of acoustic treatments ensures a serene auditory experience, complementing the tactile and visual harmony of timber interiors and resin floors.

Key innovations

  • Anti-float Technology: We installed a unique drainage matrix under the basement slab to counteract groundwater pressure, reducing the need for heavier, carbon-intensive materials.
  • Timber Innovation: Utilising mass timber elements such as Glulam and CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) for both structural integrity and visual warmth, we minimised the environmental impact while enhancing the home’s biophilic design.
  • Smart Space Utilisation: Every inch of 'The Burrow' was designed with purpose - integrating utilities and storage seamlessly into living spaces to eliminate unnecessary corridors and maximise functional living area.
  • Advanced Environmental Controls: From infrared heating systems embedded in ceilings to illuminated skylights that mimic natural light, every detail was crafted to enhance energy efficiency and comfort.
Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting.

Client Experience

Andrew and Christina's journey was a collaborative process from the outset. Despite external challenges like COVID-19 and supply chain disruptions, their dedication never wavered. Their active involvement, from VR walkthroughs to hands-on joinery installation, was crucial in bringing their vision to life. Their home is not only a structure but a manifestation of their values and aspirations, realised through perseverance and a partnership grounded in trust and mutual respect.
Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting.

Reflections & Future Directions

'The Burrow' taught us the importance of aligning deeply with client visions from the outset. This project has sparked interest among urban developers and planners, leading to discussions on how such innovative design solutions could address broader housing challenges. Our experience with sustainable materials like blown cellulose insulation has also shifted our approach, reinforcing our commitment to cost-effective and environmentally friendly building practices.

This project not only transformed a disused site into a vibrant home but also set a benchmark for future Warehome projects, where sustainability and client-focused design converge to redefine urban living.

Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting. Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting.

Conclusion

This project not only provided a bespoke architectural solution to a unique urban challenge but also embodied our shared commitment to sustainable living and client-centric design. By transforming a neglected space into a thriving, low-energy home, we have demonstrated that even the most constrained urban environments can be reimagined as places of comfort, style, and sustainability. As we reflect on the success of "The Burrow," we are inspired to continue pushing the boundaries of architectural design. Each project is an opportunity to explore new ideas, implement sustainable practices, and enrich the lives of our clients. We look forward to carrying the insights gained from this project into future endeavours, helping more individuals and families realise their dream homes, and contributing to the creation of more sustainable urban landscapes.

Additional Information

Useful Links

"It has been an absolute pleasure dealing with Warehome, who have created a beautiful inspiring design for our new home in north London. Joe and his team have an incredible passion for helping people realise their dreams. Unlike any other practice I’ve worked with, Joe has a laser-focus on the cost of building and the practicalities of construction."
Andrew Wallace
Client

Conclusion

This project not only provided a bespoke architectural solution to a unique urban challenge but also embodied our shared commitment to sustainable living and client-centric design. By transforming a neglected space into a thriving, low-energy home, we have demonstrated that even the most constrained urban environments can be reimagined as places of comfort, style, and sustainability. As we reflect on the success of "The Burrow," we are inspired to continue pushing the boundaries of architectural design. Each project is an opportunity to explore new ideas, implement sustainable practices, and enrich the lives of our clients. We look forward to carrying the insights gained from this project into future endeavours, helping more individuals and families realise their dream homes, and contributing to the creation of more sustainable urban landscapes.

Additional Information

Useful Links

Final Thoughts

This project not only provided a bespoke architectural solution to a unique urban challenge but also embodied our shared commitment to sustainable living and client-centric design. By transforming a neglected space into a thriving, low-energy home, we have demonstrated that even the most constrained urban environments can be reimagined as places of comfort, style, and sustainability. As we reflect on the success of "The Burrow," we are inspired to continue pushing the boundaries of architectural design. Each project is an opportunity to explore new ideas, implement sustainable practices, and enrich the lives of our clients. We look forward to carrying the insights gained from this project into future endeavours, helping more individuals and families realise their dream homes, and contributing to the creation of more sustainable urban landscapes.
Transforming an overgrown and disused garage into a low energy, semi-submerged and hidden home that acts as a suprising oasis from its urban setting.
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