Benbow Yard

FORMstudio has created two new-build courtyard houses in the London Borough of Southwark.

The tight, irregular brownfield plot, previously occupied by a metal workshop, had narrow access, outlook and daylight issues, and these constraints have directly determined the form and fenestration of the pair of new-build, 2-storey, 3-bedroom family houses.

The principal barrel-vaulted design is semi-submerged below the existing ground level to minimise the bulk of the new structure. On the East side, where the boundary is closest to the existing terrace of houses, the first floor is set back to allow for an extensive sedum roof, providing space and outlook between the two. New windows are orientated to the south to take advantage of unrestricted views, maximise natural light and avoid overlooking, with living spaces at the lowered level opening onto private courtyards.

The ground floor is in a contemporary pale brick with the upper barrel-vaulted storey finished in zinc standing-seam cladding; materials which reference the industrial heritage of the site but articulated with a refined level of detailing to create a sense of substance and quality.