Nestled discreetly behind a Victorian pub in a tranquil mews in Hampstead, the Reciprocal House designed by Gianni Botsford Architects stands as a testament to thoughtful design. This London family residence replaces a crumbling cottage from the 1860s while simultaneously revitalizing a single-story extension from 1969, originally crafted by Foster Associates. The new structure harmonizes with the industrial essence of the existing extension, creating a seamless blend of old and new.
The architectural language of the Reciprocal House is defined by its innovative use of materials. A robust steel truss framework supports the building, complemented by concrete blocks and expansive aluminum-framed windows. This minimalist approach draws inspiration from the original extension, ensuring that the new addition resonates with its predecessor’s character while introducing a fresh perspective.
One of the most striking features of the new design is its reimagined roof profile, characterized by sharp, geometric elevations. The facade is elegantly draped in a perforated aluminum mesh, which not only adds visual interest but also serves practical purposes. Its warm copper-brown hue pays homage to the demolished cottage, providing shade and privacy while fostering a connection to the lush greenery surrounding the property.
Gianni Botsford emphasizes the importance of local adaptation in this sensitive context, stating that the design is a response to its environment. The architects have incorporated passive strategies throughout the house to minimize its ecological footprint, ensuring that the home is both modern and environmentally conscious.
The name “Reciprocal House” encapsulates the project’s conceptual framework, fostering a dialogue between the historical and the contemporary. The design equalizes the architectural presence of the 1960s extension with the new addition, resulting in a cohesive yet distinct composition. The landscaping further enhances this connection to the past, utilizing recycled bricks from the original cottage, while a spacious roof terrace invites residents to immerse themselves in the surrounding canopy of mature trees, beautifully intertwining architecture with nature.
In the heart of the four-story residence, a captivating spiral staircase crafted from locally sourced aluminum stands as a sculptural centerpiece, drawing the eye and elevating the aesthetic of the home. This striking feature is complemented by custom kitchen units, wardrobes, and bathroom fittings, all designed to harmonize with the overall architectural vision. Above the staircase, a generous 2-meter-wide circular rooflight bathes the interior in natural light, serving a dual purpose as a ventilation shaft that enhances the home’s passive cooling strategy.
The layout of the ground floor emphasizes openness and flexibility, seamlessly connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas. This fluid design extends into the beautifully restored extension by Foster + Partners, originally conceived for entertaining and accommodating a grand piano, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings and relaxation.
On the upper levels, three well-appointed bedrooms await, along with a roof terrace that offers a serene outdoor escape. The basement studio benefits from tall, light-filled wells that invite daylight into the subterranean space, ensuring that every corner of the home is infused with brightness and warmth.
Sustainability lies at the heart of Gianni Botsford Architects’ design philosophy, shaping every element of their creations. The use of high thermal mass materials, such as exposed concrete, allows for natural regulation of indoor temperatures. Coupled with enhanced insulation and airtight construction, these features significantly lower heating requirements. The residence operates entirely without gas, relying on an air-source heat pump for underfloor heating, and includes an EV charger conveniently located in the front lightwell.
Moreover, innovative systems for rainwater and greywater recycling help to minimize water usage, while green roofs not only enhance biodiversity but also effectively manage runoff. The dynamic relationship between the spiral staircase and the opening rooflight fosters a stack effect, enabling warm air to escape during the summer months and ensuring a continuous flow of natural ventilation throughout the home.