Kaaren Rutherford - George Row Extension

The existing Grade II Listed building at George Row in Bermondsey was constructed in c.1830-40 and awarded a Grade II Listing in 1982 together with a number of other significant wharf, warehouse and support trade buildings within the St Saviours Dock conservation area. Initially constructed as a chain-maker’s workshop the building was converted to offices in the mid-1980’s with the addition of a third storey housed within a slate-clad mansard roof. The extension at George Row is designed to replace the existing top storey and mansard roof, the design of which has caused historic serial leaks, with a more effectively detailed, climate responsive enclosure and terrace to be incorporated into existing first floor flat demise. The resulting flat will comprise two floors and include 4 bedrooms (or office, gym and cinema type spaces as required) on Level 1 and a large open-plan living and entertaining space on Level 2, opening onto a south facing, planted terrace.

Following extensive research into the history of the area, particularly ‘Jacob’s Island’ and the rise and fall of the manufacturing industries supporting the shipping trades associated with the Pool of London, the design focuses on simple, crafted forms and materials. In-keeping with the existing Crittall windows, the extension enclosure is designed as a series of steel framed, high-performance glazing positioned above the existing parapet. Predominantly east facing, the extension design takes advantage of the abundant, cooler morning sun to provide year-round warmth without excessive solar gains. High level openings along the north and east upper floor glazing work together with the terrace concertina doors to provide natural cooling through cross-ventilation. Ample natural light is experienced in all spaces including the internal protected stair via a skylight. The roof space is utilised to provide a 5kW solar energy collection centre connected to electrical and hot-water systems.