After living in their home for many years, the clients for this project in Surrey approached Snell David with the intention of making a series of alterations to their property. Initially the project explored adjustments to the ground floor, by reconfiguring external doors at the rear of the kitchen and creating a snug and utility on the side to make the spaces more practical. From here the project expanded to include a large excavation to create a basement gym below a proposed garage, with guest accommodation above. With stringent planning requirements on areas due to the property sitting within a Greenbelt, the designs were carefully developed to maximise the space within the approved areas.

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The construction of the works took place during the first Covid lockdown, and the basement excavation required piling to hold up the house. Unfortunately, this meant that whilst the client was stuck at home, all they could see from their study was a massive hole in the ground for many weeks. It was a mud bath to the rear and side during this time but once the excavation was back filled, this quickly improved and the works above ground could begin to take shape.

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As part of the design an external lightwell was constructed to the rear of the garage, which lets light stream into the basement gym, creating a light filled space that is contrary to typical basement. As the client is an avid sportsman, the gym was carefully designed to incorporate all the gym equipment that the client had into the space. The project completed at the beginning of 2021 and as we entered a further lockdown, the client enjoyed having more space and use of the gym with the yoga floor in the middle. The basement design also included a steam room, gym changing and wine room.