Old Mechanic’s Garage Converted To Stylish London Residence

Garage Converted To Residence

Initially a 1950’s mechanics garage and office, this space in Primrose Hill was beautifully converted to a modern home by Patalab architects of London

Garage Converted To Residence

garage conversion to home

The following description of the project is courtesy of the architects
Located in a north-west London courtyard tucked between a Victorian terrace and main railway lines, this landlocked site presented a great design challenge. Our task was to convert and remodel a run-down industrial compound from the 1950’s into contemporary residential accommodation. The buildings, once a mechanic’s garage and office, today comprise a generous open-plan three-bedroom house and two one-bedroom apartments.

Externally the buildings were re-faced, uniting what was previously a patchwork arrangement into a balanced composition. Responding to the courtyard setting a reflective metallic bronze glazed brick was used that glistens in the direct sunlight and give the development a jewel-like appearance.

skylight over dining table

Brick is also the predominant material within the interior. As walls were moved, ground floor slabs lowered and ceilings pushed up to maximize the height on the ground floor, changes in the bond of the white washed brick walls mark the previous position of these elements. The result is a richly textured internal perimeter, imbued with the memory of place. This is contrasted with polished and rough concrete finishes, a coffered ceiling and Oak paneling.

lit wood stairs

garage conversion london

The ground floor of the main residence accommodates the living, dining and kitchen areas.

transformation from garage to living space

garage-converted-to-residence

garage converted to living space

The open floor plan is structured by three elements: large openings bringing in the natural light, a sunken seating area set into the polished concrete floor and a wide staircase leading to the bedrooms on the upper floors.

Patalab architects garage conversion

Patalab architects garage conversion

Patalab architects garage conversion seating pit

Patalab architects garage conversion kitchen

interior architecture

Patalab architects

The site:

Ground floor plan:

section views:

The Gables – Residential Conversion, London
Architects: Patalab
Project Date: 2012 – 2014
Client: Private
Status: Built
Location: Primrose Hill, London
Awards & Commendations:
– Don’t Move, Improve! 2016, WINNER “Best Use of Materials”
– Sunday Times British Homes Awards 16,
– New London Awards 2015, SHORTLISTED

photos by Lyndon Douglas, courtesy of the photographer and Patalab