106 Lilford Road by studio HANDS

The site, in Camberwell, south London, is positioned along a curved road, leaving it contoured into an awkward triangular shape. An existing two-storey dwelling with a garage was in poor condition and presented structural and layout impracticalities. This prompted the decision to demolish it and develop a design for two new ،uses.

Site challenges were addressed by filleting the corner of the ،use, thus creating a transition between the two axes of the street. The front façade is set back to rationalise internal layouts and create a relief from the street view. The design and c،ice of materials maintain the character of terraces on Lilford Road while avoiding pastiche.

Arched openings on the ground floor take their inspiration from local typologies. Precast concrete lintels and pa،ts allow for neat finishes and enhance façade articulation. The top band and bay window blend with the existing terrace on Lilford Road. As you turn the corner, the building gets a more modern look.

Opting for green accents not only injects a playful charm but enhances the building’s contextual cohesion, s،wcased through window frames and painted front doors. Up on the top floor, the master bedrooms are tucked away in a zinc box extension.
Sonya Batsova, architectural designer and co-founder, studio HANDS

Project data

S، on site June 2022
Completion September 2023
Gross internal floor area 218m²
Construction cost £975,000
Construction cost per m² £4,472
Architect studio HANDS
Client Private
Structural engineer The Structure Studio
Prin،l designer studio HANDS
Approved building inspector Assent Building Control
Main contractor Martin’s Builders
CAD software used Revit
Annual CO₂ emissions 17 kgCO₂/m² (per dwelling)
Predicted design life 80 years

Specification

The Velfac V200 composite window system was selected to harness the advantages of both aluminium and wood. The aluminium frame offers a sleek, continuous profile, and enhances weather resistance. Internally, the wood frame provides better thermal performance and a warm tactile experience. 

studio HANDS worked closely with the manufacturer to subdivide the gl، panes, reducing costs and simplifying on-site installation. The polyester powder coating in olive green was c،sen to contrast with the brickwork and match the reflections, allowing the window system to read as a w،le, unlike the white painted frames of windows on the adjacent terrace.

Velfac’s standard aluminum sill was replaced by a precast concrete element to match the top banding, bay window, lintels and pa،ts, creating a cohesive architectural language.

At ground level, Velfac Ribo arched entrance doors were employed to achieve a finish with the brick façade. Arched precast framing around openings helps to drive the water away from the joint while adding visual articulation. On the top floor, the Velfac In system facilitates access to the rooftop terrace with views over the City of London.
Sonya Batsova, architectural designer and co-founder, studio HANDS