The character of this modest garden extension is created from the expression of a simple structural construction. Standard timber joists, at 600mm spacings, cross in both directions to allow for a free span between 2 rendered blockwork cavity walls.

Everyday construction techniques and materials were chosen driven by a desire for efficiency - to design cost-effectively and economically.

The house focuses on the traditional meaning of the applied arts and translates it into the contemporary setting - using design and assembly to enhance character and atmosphere where the construction and material costs would exclude.

David Leech architects call this approach 'richly economical'.

The beams above are slightly exposed to create a shallow coffer, although contemporary in appearance the filigree relief is reminiscent of Victorian orangeries and traditional conservatories.

The timber beams sit on shallow pilasters formed where the blockwork is turned through 90 degrees to provide lateral restraint and to give a subtle relief to the bearing walls.

The original window opening to the back room is enlarged to create a generous connection between a new kitchen and a new family room.

 A counter and cupboards are constructed with green through-coloured Valchromat MDF accented by a polished marble countertop.

Drainage access is concealed in a small carpet of polished marble tiles embedded in a struck in situ concrete floor, left unpolished.

The rug of stone suggests inhabitation and aggregate - a contemporary translation of a Palladian terrazzo.

The plant and utility spaces are located in an outhouse in the garden. A wall connects this room back to the main house.

The pilasters extend beyond the wall to form 5 exposed columns. This extended wall frames a new garden court with the columns protruding to hold the cross joisted ceiling structure.

Which is now fully exposed forming a new open pergola hung with wisteria to provide shelter and shade.

David Leech architects proposed to put more effort into the design and elaboration of elements needed to be put together onsite to generate a character and atmosphere for the house.

All doors, rooflights and the double glazed units are proprietary. The standard rooflight sizes therefore set out the module and spacing for the timber beams, which dictates the position of the piers and finally the proportion of the new room.