Bespoke Modular Studio

This project was driven by the client’s brief to create a striking statement building in his London garden, a space that would blend both functionality and design. The intended use was multifaceted, serving as a home office by day and offering occasional overnight accommodation for guests. The client’s vision for the building was ambitious, requiring a balance of practical zoning and aesthetic impact, with an emphasis on maximising the space’s versatility and comfort.

One of the key challenges in the design process was the necessity to divide the interior space effectively to cater to the mixed-use requirements, while also respecting the boundary conditions imposed by the site. These restrictions, coupled with the need to maintain a visually impactful structure, required us to be particularly creative with the roof shape. A unique and thoughtful approach to the roof design was crucial to achieving both the functionality and the architectural statement the client sought, while also adhering to the site’s limitations.

However, during the early stages of this bespoke project, we found that the client’s vision for the building did not align with the budgetary constraints, making it clear that the scale and complexity of the design would require significant financial investment. Despite the enthusiasm for the project, the budget mismatch led to the difficult decision to put the project on hold for the foreseeable future.

This experience highlights an important lesson in the design and construction process: how early and accurate costing can help prevent disappointment later. By establishing a clear and realistic budget from the outset, we can ensure that our clients understand the financial commitments required to bring their vision to life, preventing misunderstandings and helping to refine the scope of the project to fit within a feasible framework. Early costing assessments not only save time but also help manage expectations, allowing clients to make informed decisions about how to proceed.