When the owners of this detached home on the edge of Cambridge engaged Butcher Bayley Architects to design and oversee the rear extension, the key goal was to create a bright, welcoming sanctuary for family and friends.
The previous owners had added a conservatory years before but when the family bought the house in 2007 they saw the potential to improve it. “We undertook big refurbishment just after we bought the house but left the conservatory as it was. But it was too hot in summer, too cold in winter – so it had become a bit of a dumping ground!”
Keen to make better use of the space, they turned to architect Butcher Bayley Architects. “BBA were the only architect we met, when we got together with Luke, he really understood what we wanted. His confidence in being able to deliver it gave us the assurance to move forward.”
After over a decade in their home they knew exactly what they wanted: a flexible living space that connected seamlessly with the garden and could be enjoyed all year round. “We wanted sliding doors with minimal obstruction when looking out and we worked closely with Luke to refine the design until it felt just right.”
To realise the vision, BBA worked with IDSystems to specify an open-corner sliding door system utilising theEDGE2.0, that transforms the entire rear of the home. With no fixed corner post, the glazing opens completely to connect indoors with outdoors – flooding the space with light and framing uninterrupted garden views. Above the doors, a timber canopy wraps around a projecting window seat – creating a warm, natural focal point and a cosy place to read, relax, or enjoy the garden even on cooler days.
The finished extension replaces the old conservatory with a bright, open, and contemporary living space that perfectly meets the family’s needs. “We absolutely love it and use it every day.”
“When the weather is good, it’s even better with the sun shining through. It’s now the perfect space to entertain friends and family. Working with BBA and IDSystems was so easy – they were responsive and guided us through every stage.”
Location: Cambridge
Architects: Butcher Bayley Architects
Main Contractor: Mark Downs Building Services
Photos: David Valinsky Photography
