The client needed an extension added to their English country garden home to meet the needs of their growing family and provide accommodations for guests. Constructed in the 1920s to 1930s, the house was built on shallow foundations. It was also moving differentially to an existing rear extension.  The client's brief was very particular: create a sympathetic, two-storey side extension constructed of materials in keeping with the period of the dwelling.

 

          The extension was built as an independent structure on deep foundations. It included movement joints to allow for any differential movement.  Although constructed according to modern standards, the extension's appearance integrates flawlessly with the original structure. Treating the extension as an independent structure has, as expected, been quite beneficial. The differential movement between the original and new extensions is occurring in the place for which it was designed to do so. The clients are pleased with the new playroom and guest room, which includes a bathroom. The fact that the extension was built to withstand differential movement has given them peace of mind as well as wonderful new living spaces to enjoy with family and friends.