From hempcrete walls to mid-century conversation pits and even a house shaped like an ark, this year’s Open House Festival offers a rare glimpse inside some truly exceptional homes. We’re proud to be sponsoring the Remarkable Homes category, not least because it's given us time to reflect on what we feel makes a home feel truly special. For us, it starts with character. When the personalities and passions of the owners are centre stage, the result is always a bold and original set of design choices. To help you navigate the many incredible spaces on offer, we have explored the full festival line-up and curated this selection of the homes we’re most excited to visit.
A low energy refurbishment of an Edwardian house, with rear extension and loft conversion. Wood fibre insulation, MVHR, airtightness layer, triple glazing, timber structure and low embodied energy materials.
Architecture for London, 2020
A double-height ark floats above a masonry base & entrance footbridge. Off the elevated living area a smokers' balcony overlooks the lush garden below. Above, semi circular terrace and winter garden nestles within the wooded surrounds.
Birds Portchmouth Russum Architects, 2016
Renovation and extension of a Grade 2 listed, five storey house by Dominic McKenzie Architects. New rear extension constructed using bespoke brickwork. Lower ground floor lined with douglas fir panelling throughout. Bespoke kitchen and pantry. Upper ground floor sensitively remodelled by DMA. Rear garden by Kawauchi Rowe Garden Design. Interior design consultant (upper floors) Patrick O'Donnell.
Dominic Mckenzie Architects, 2024