Notting Hill Garden House is a minimal residence located in London, United Kingdom, designed by Nick Hill architects. The design reimagines a neglected, awkwardly-shaped plot at the end of the garden to create a sequence of new living spaces, both internal and external, that aim to make the most of their garden surroundings. The host property already offers a variety of elegant finely-finished living spaces so, with a more limited budget, the opportunity for the Garden House was to make something simpler, less urbane, but much more strongly connected to the garden, both physically and tonally.

The material palette – mineral-washed brickwork inside and out, exposed ceiling joists, galvanized steel window frames, end-grain woodblock flooring – references more traditional garden buildings while at the same time creating internal spaces with a strong material character of their own. Exposed construction and careful detailing showcases the simple craftsmanship of its construction while avoiding additional costs of applied linings or fine finishes. Generous window openings heighten the proximity of the outside, further enhancing the relationship between the building and its garden setting.

Photography by Emily Marshall