The Wraparound,

Petts Wood

A contemporary side and rear extension to an existing semi-detached house, including partial demolition and reconfiguration of the access and parking.

The transformation of this 1930s home enhances its functionality, flow, and relationship with the surrounding landscape. A wraparound extension, combined with carefully considered interior interventions, improves spatial connections while preserving the character of the original house. The design focuses on refining movement through the home, opening up key living areas, and seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.

Planning Consent Granted

A single storey side and rear extension to the existing 1920s semi-detached house in Petts Wood, Orpington, Bromley, Kent, South-East London, England, UK. It incorporates improvements to the front approach and access, including the new parking payout with permeable paving, a series of brick steps, terraces and planters, a warm brick building plinth with crisp white render above.

Arrival

The project reimagines the front approach to the house, enhancing both its visual presence and functionality. A carefully designed sequence of brick steps and terraces resolves the level change, creating a more structured and welcoming transition from street to doorstep.
By replacing the former recessed porch and aligning the entrance with the main floor level, the design improves accessibility while maintaining an open feel, eliminating the need for balustrades or handrails.

Petts Wood, Bromley: 1930s house front with new brick steps, planters, permeable paving, and parking by Studio Roundhouse. Bromley architects for residential renovations and driveways.

Palette

Brick is used sculpturally to form steps, planters, and low walls, adding texture and depth while subtly defining the entrance. The parking area features permeable paving, which integrates sustainable drainage solutions while complementing the material palette of the house. Integrated lighting highlights the carefully balanced levels, reinforcing the sense of arrival. The timber entrance door provides a tactile and warm contrast to the brick and ties seamlessly to the internal material choices.

Front access area of a thoughtfully designed extension and renovation in Orpington, Bromley, London, by Studio Roundhouse. Modern architectural solutions tailored for functional family living in Petts Wood.

Façade

From an overhead perspective, the relationship between the front landscape elements is clearly articulated, with the structured paving pattern complementing the surrounding greenery. At eye level, the new entrance arrangement frames the façade, with the carefully proportioned windows and timber elements harmonizing with the home’s architectural language. The refined interplay of light and shadow on the brickwork and planters adds further depth to the approach, ensuring that the home’s presence is both inviting and considered.

Hallway

Stepping inside, the reimagined entrance hallway is now a seamless, level space. Removing the lowered internal porch enhances circulation, while a new opening—replacing a former window—connects the playroom in the side extension to the main layout. Reclaimed dark wood parquet from the previous kitchen extension has been repurposed in the playroom, preserving texture continuity and promoting sustainability.
A defining feature is the subtly colored "spine" that begins at the staircase base and extends through the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Integrating concealed storage and a discreet WC door, it balances function with refined design. Vertical timber fins accent the staircase, while lighter-toned fins echo the cabinetry, easing the transition between spaces.

Garden

At the garden end, the extension spans the full width of the site, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living. A simple yet spacious decking area extends from the house, proportioned to accommodate both a relaxed lounge setting and alfresco dining. A built-in bench along the folding windows mirrors the seating provision inside, reinforcing the connection between the two spaces and offering a flexible spot for relaxation. The transition between hard and soft landscaping is carefully considered, with the majority of the garden dedicated to lush greenery, maximizing the available soft landscape. Framed by vibrant planting and layered hedging, the outdoor space fosters a natural and inviting atmosphere, balancing openness with privacy.

Design Development

When we first considered extending our home we had a vague idea of what we wanted, but essentially faced a blank canvas. The thought of navigating planning permission and making sure the design actually worked for our family felt daunting. I hadn’t considered using an architect, but we decided to work with Konrad, and it was the best decision we could have made.

From the very first meeting, Konrad took the time to truly understand how we lived in our house. He didn't just ask about square footage; he asked about how we spent our evenings, how we liked to host friends, and what was important to us as a family. He really listened and used that information to guide us towards a vision we hadn't considered whilst keeping our ideas in mind the whole way through. He helped us think about the flow of the house, clever storage solutions, and the practical usage of every space.

Konrad's sketches were invaluable in helping us visualize the design, and his practical advice on everything from materials to roof pitch was spot on. He was incredibly responsive whenever we had questions and explained everything clearly and patiently. We felt like he was really invested in creating the perfect plan for our family home and always available.

He also took a huge amount of stress out of the planning application process. Konrad's expertise and ability to balance planning regulations whist giving us the look we wanted gave us complete confidence. He navigated the process seamlessly, and we secured planning permission without any issues.

Honestly, before working with Konrad, I questioned whether an architect was necessary, but now, I can't imagine undertaking any building work without one. Konrad transformed our vague ideas into a beautiful and functional design that perfectly suits our needs. He simplified a complex process, and his expertise was worth every penny.

The Wraparound,

Petts Wood

A contemporary side and rear extension to an existing semi-detached house, including partial demolition and reconfiguration of the access and parking.

Planning Consent Granted

Design Development

Pippa & Paul

Planning Drawings