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Designing Domestic Bliss – A Feature in ‘Essential Surrey’ publications

Earlier in 2023, Reigate Architects was selected to feature in the March editions of Essential Surrey’s titles: The Richmond, The Elmbridge, The Guildford, and The Surrey Downs magazines. One of our projects takes centre stage in an editorial aptly titled “Designing Domestic Bliss,” offering an engaging glimpse into our architectural abilities.

Situated in Reigate, Surrey, our Oak Way extension and alterations project stands as a testament to our skill in redefining spaces. The scheme focuses on restoring a sense of connection and providing a larger space to accommodate a single split-level kitchen/living room/dining and games area.

A Tribute to Early 20th Century Elegance
Drawing inspiration from the elegance of early 20th-century design, copper accents and Crittall-style windows and doors were introduced, lending a feel of timeless sophistication to the space. Complementing this, a brand-new parquet-style herringbone floor adds a sense of classic charm.

First Impressions are Important
The decision to enlarge the hall was not just a functional choice but a deliberate effort to elevate the initial impression upon entering the home. The result is a welcoming view that invites visitors with a feeling of openness, warmth, and luminosity.

The design creates a welcoming composition that encourages connection, relaxation, and the joy of everyday living. The layout invites you to move freely and enjoy the flow between the kitchen, living area, and dining space. Natural light floods the interior, providing the sense of airiness and tranquillity.

If you are planning to make adaptations to your current property or embark on a new home build, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process. We understand that your home is your sanctuary, and we strive to create spaces that reflect your unique style and meet your practical needs.

For further information or to speak with a member of our dedicated team about your project, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Embracing the Future: Supporting Architectural Apprentices 

In July 2022, Reigate Architects embarked on an exciting journey by welcoming our inaugural Architectural Apprentice, Lauren, into our team. As we continue to shape the architectural landscape, we recognise the invaluable role apprenticeships play in nurturing future talent and driving innovation within our industry.

We are committed to mentoring Lauren and providing her with the experience and knowledge she requires on her journey to becoming a Part 1 qualified architect, after completing her four-year, architectural degree course at London South Bank University.

Lauren is very much part of our team and is immersed in every facet of our practice, gaining first-hand insights that complement her academic foundation.

At Reigate Architects, we firmly believe in the power of apprenticeships to shape the future of our profession. By integrating apprentices into our practice, we not only enrich their educational journey but also invigorate our own perspectives with fresh ideas and boundless enthusiasm.

As we continue to nurture Lauren’s growth, we are excited about the possibilities she brings to our firm and the broader architectural community. Her progress reaffirms our commitment to supporting apprenticeships and shaping the next generation of architects.

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Adding Sustainable Features to your Design – Green Roofs

Green Roofs – Sustainable Benefits:
As energy efficiency and concerns for the environment become important design considerations, Reigate Architects are keen to incorporate features to create greener, more environmentally friendly buildings. One such feature is Sedum roofs.

Green roofs – A natural solution:
Sedum roofs, also known as green roofs or living roofs, offer many advantages over traditional roofing solutions. These reduce your carbon footprint and also lower energy bills, in an attractive manner.
Here’s why:

1. Thermal Performance: Sedum roofs enhance the thermal performance of your building, reducing the need for heating and cooling. This translates into substantial long-term energy savings.

2. Biodiversity and Conservation: Green roofs provide a habitat for wildlife and support pollinators, contributing to the preservation of local ecosystems.

3. Rainwater Management: Acting as a natural filter, sedum roofs purify rainwater and reduce stormwater runoff, alleviating the strain on urban drainage systems.

4. Urban Heat Island Mitigation: Green roofs play a vital role in countering the urban heat island effect, helping lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Aesthetic Beauty: Green rooftops can enrich and enhance urban and rural landscapes, fostering a sense of well-being and tranquillity and promoting integration between man-made structures and the natural world. They can be the perfect partner for a garden office or for a flat roof extension that is overlooked from an upstairs windows.

Our Old School Mews, North Downs house, West Reigate projects demonstrate how sedum roofs were incorporated into our designs.

6. Low Maintenance: Sedum plants are naturally drought-tolerant, requiring minimal upkeep, cutting or pruning; they thrive independently.

7. Air Quality Improvement: Like all plants, sedum contributes to reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere, enhancing air quality and aiding in greenhouse gas reduction.

8. Wildlife Support: By attracting bees, butterflies, and other essential insects, sedum roofs support wildlife in city environments.

If you’re looking to make sustainable adaptations to your property or considering undertaking a sustainable and/or passivhaus project, talk to Reigate Architects who can bring your vision to life.