Redeveloping residential projects often presents a unique challenge. Homeowners tend to hold deep sentimental ties to their existing structures while simultaneously seeking modern functionality. Striking this delicate balance requires a thoughtful approach, one that architecture studio McLaren Excell (not to be confused with the automotive marque McLaren) mastered in their transformation of a tired 1970s house in Wimbledon. The result is a striking new residence that embraces contemporary design without losing sight of timeless architectural integrity.
Set on a site previously occupied by a dated structure, the new home is a confident and bold statement in modern architecture. Featuring a contemporary grey brick exterior, clean lines, and cubic volumes, the house commands attention on its quiet residential street. The designers replaced the existing building with a structure tailored for 21st-century living, one that combines striking aesthetics with practical functionality.
Designer:
The client’s vision was key to this transformation, particularly their passion for materiality and brick houses. McLaren Excell honored this by using a restrained palette of brick, concrete, and timber, crafting a sculptural form that exudes solidity and depth. The bricks, sourced from Danish manufacturer Petersen, possess a subtle, chalky finish that enhances the home’s monolithic yet textured appearance. Darker tones define the exterior, reinforcing its fortress-like presence, while the interior features lighter hues that introduce warmth and an interplay of light and shadow.
Brick, one of the oldest construction materials, plays a crucial role in maintaining a sense of historical charm. While its use connects the home to traditional craftsmanship, the grey tone injects a contemporary sensibility into the design. This thoughtful interplay between old and new ensures that the house feels both timeless and forward-thinking, creating a seamless blend of nostalgia and modernity.
Despite its imposing façade, the home is far from austere. Designed for both entertainment and relaxed family life, the interior spaces seamlessly adapt to the client’s daily needs. A skylight allows natural light to filter through the house, following the sun’s path throughout the day, creating an ever-changing ambiance. The deep-set windows and exposed concrete beams further emphasize the structure’s solidity, reflecting its urban surroundings.
Inside, the layout prioritizes comfort and fluidity. The ground floor features a living room, study, lounge, and kitchen-dining area, fostering an inviting atmosphere for both social gatherings and quiet moments. The second-floor houses four ensuite bedrooms branching off a communal area, while the third floor is dedicated to the primary suite. This private retreat boasts wrap-around terraces and a fireplace, offering an intimate space that harmonizes with the rest of the house’s bold yet serene character.
Luke McLaren, co-founder of McLaren Excell, emphasized the project’s striking presence, noting that the house commands attention and defies immediate understanding. He described it as bold and unapologetic, standing as a testament to the client’s vision for a truly unique piece of architecture.
Indeed, the house challenges convention, sparking conversation among passersby. Its enigmatic, inward-facing façade offers little at first glance, yet inside lies a calm oasis, a tribute to the beauty of brick, concrete, and natural light. The Wimbledon home by McLaren Excell is a masterclass in balancing bold architecture with intimate living spaces, an enduring testament to thoughtful and innovative design.
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