THE BUNKER (W.I.P)
This was such an fantastic project for us and we are excited to finally share it (even though it is not quite finished yet). In the summer of 2022, Jon and Jen approached us to discuss the possibility of converting a WW2 bomb shelter in the bottom of their garden into a garden office and summer room. It would have been far simpler to knock the whole thing down and build from scratch but we were all keen to try and repurpose this important piece of our rich history.
EXTERIOR
We wanted to raise the low roof to the maximum allowed under Permitted Development rules and make the most of the prominent position that stays in the sun for most of the day. We designed a lightweight wooden roof structure that floats above the thick brick walls and wraparound clerestory windows flood the small space with ambient sunlight while maintaining privacy. Large roof overhangs on all sides help keep the interior cool in the height of summer and the protect it from the worst of the weather in the winter. The final job will be to cover the exterior brickwork with cork block insulation. Cork is a wonderful, sustainable material with excellent insulation properties and weather resistance.
INTERIOR
Inside the bunker we looked to maintain the solid industrial aesthetic of the original WW2 bunker but contrast that solidity with the airy lightness of the ceiling that almost floats away were it not anchored down by the solid ash columns. Careful detailing meant we could hide the window frames from view to make the glass almost invisible. We designed and built a full width desk on the west end and large shelves along the north side. A cupboard hides the consumer unit, wifi and storage for outdoor furniture. Finally, the colours were chosen to complement a favourite album cover.
We’re so proud of the work we’ve done here and super grateful to Jon and Jen for trusting us to deliver this ambitous project. If you’re thinking of converting a similar bunker or want something built from scratch, please get in touch.
