New two story dwelling

MiL Architects were asked to prepare an outline planning application proposing a new two story house in a large expanse of garden adjacent to the existing dwelling.

It was considered that through careful re-design of the front and rear gardens, it would be possible to integrate a new house without causing detriment to the existing dwelling – both in terms of amenity space and privacy. A comprehensive design and access planning statement was submitted with the planning application which detailed the history of the site and the surrounding context, as well as a robust argument in favour of development based on recent local precedent.

The scheme is currently being considered by the local authority.

Landscape design

We were approached by the clients to propose a landscaping design for their rear garden – an irregular shaped space surrounded by high retaining structures on two sides. They wanted to create a hierarchy of spaces, and to provide more appropriate play areas for their young children. The concept was based on creating subtle level changes which would be used to enclose separate areas of the garden, providing a centralised terrace area which appears to be sunk into the landscape, as well as a more intimately proportioned courtyard which could someday be used for a sauna and / or pool for the children. The geometry was inspired by the irregular shape of the garden, and indeed the house itself, which has undergone several renovations and extensions over the years. A combination of 2D and 3D drawings were prepared, as well as a fly-through video which really helped to visualise the proposals

Loft conversion to existing bungalow

Existing three bed bungalow in Northern Ireland where MiL have proposed a loft conversion.  This was approved in principle at planning stage by another practice, therefore the skylights and first floor gable windows had already been installed. Adopting a flexible approach to the design of spaces, MiL Architects incorporated a master bedroom with en-suite and walk-in wardrobe, a second single bedroom, a Study and a Media Room which can also both be used as extra bedrooms if required. The Media Room space will have services provided for a projector and screen to make match days feel more authentic, or for making the most of a quiet night in with a movie. See more images enclosed.

Loft conversion to existing bungalow

Existing three bed bungalow in Northern Ireland where the client requested a loft conversion.  This was approved in principle at planning stage, therefore the skylights and first floor gable windows had already been installed. The brief was to maximise the use of the attic space with the aim of creating two additional bedrooms. Through careful planning, MiL Architects have managed to incorporate two bedrooms, a study and a second family bathroom, as well as increase the storage capacity to cope with the additional number of inhabitants.

Side extension to existing bungalow

Existing two bed bungalow in Northern Ireland where the client required a new extension and re-organisation of the existing internal layout to make the home suitable for a disabled family member. A master bedroom with en-suite facilities was provided by relocating the kitchen into the new extension adjacent to the living room. A new open plan living / kitchen / dining space was created which provides a safe and secure space for the family to interact, whilst also providing supervision to the primary resident. The extension was permitted development and after agreeing the design, MiL architects submitted a building control application to the local authority.

Masterplan project

For this masterplan project, MiL Architects were asked to  bring some life back to the site on a narrow piece of land overlooking the hills of Donegal. The site is currently occupied by two relatively new houses and a number of old sheds. The brief was to create a landscaping plan which would present a natural boundary for each of the existing houses. This in turn would be used to develop new land registry maps. MiL Architects studied photographs of an old cottage which used to grace the site, and attempted to instill a sense of ‘memory’ into the project. At the same time, the option for a potential third dwelling was investigated which would markedly increase the value of the site for the client.

Following completion of the masterplan proposal, MiL architects were instructed to progress with the planning stage design of a third house on the site. Aside from the apparent width restrictions on the side due to the proximity of the shared access land to the north-east, there was a piped stream to the south-west which meant the footprint of the house would need to be quite small. MiL decided the best approach was to utilise the attic space from the outset. Planning guidance and local precedents suggested that a two story dwelling or a dormer proposal would not be acceptable, therefore headroom on the upper floor was achieved by introducing a step in the ground floor slab – something which provided an extra 400mm headroom upstairs. The triumph of this project was the ability to retain that old cottage style mixed with a contemporary aesthetic, whilst at the same time incorporating five bedrooms and two double height spaces. An extremely efficient layout, with only 10.8% of the gross internal floor area used for circulation spaces, helped to maximise the potential of this infill site.

Rear extension and loft conversion to existing detached house

This proposal incorporates a rear extension allowing for an enhanced connection to the garden. New dormers at second floor level accommodate two new double bedrooms with bespoke storage and study space. A simple but very effective plan for this five bedroom house renovation and extension positions all the ancillary accommodation in the core of the building, enabling generous and well-lit primary rooms to the front and rear of the dwelling. MiL Architects also designed the landscaping scheme

Rear extension and loft conversion to existing detached house

This proposal involves a new roof dormer, accommodating an additional bedroom with en-suite facilities, as well as general modernisation of this semi-detatched house. At ground floor level, the internal layout is modified to rationalise the plan, expand the living spaces and improve the circulation. Extending sideways, adjacent to the existing outrigger, allows integration of a new open plan kitchen and dining area, with full height sliding patio doors flooding the space with light and creating that ever envied connection to the garden.

New build farmhouse

This proposal explores the possibility of building a new house within the grounds of an existing farmyard. An important feature of the house is the master bedroom at ground floor level which has been designed such that in future years, it can be easily adapted into a ‘granny flat’ with self contained kitchen and separate entrance via the double patio doors.

Old barn conversion 

Whether you have a green-field/brown-field site, or even an old barn – there are many possibilities open to you regarding development. In this example, an old stone barn is renovated and connected to a new build bungalow via a frameless glass link. MiL are able to produce seasonal specific renders of your final design – Christmas is a favourite with many people.

New build house

New build house on a narrow, sloping plot in Northern Ireland. The design responds to the site constrictions – the house is only one room wide (plus circulation space along the spine to the rear) and steps down with the natural contours of the land to create enviable internal spaces, including a double height dining area lit from above. Internal crittal glass windows and doors help to visually connect internal spaces and allow use of borrowed light from other rooms/circulation spaces.