Designed by Fletcher Crane Architects from Kingston-upon-Thames in the south-west of London, the building initially seems to shake the foundations of the streetscape – only then to blend in with remarkable harmony. “Stitched boldly into the scenography” is how the planners themselves so fittingly put it. It seems to have been placed among the existing buildings with precision and audacity. Its cubic design is reflective of the surrounding forms, with its materials also blending in. And while the neighbouring buildings are ornamental, this one is elegantly restrained.

However, once you enter the building, a stark contrast to the traditional architecture reveals itself. An open split-level plan extends through the building. The kitchen and living area occupy the top floor, where the natural light is maximised by the large windows. Two bedrooms, each with a bathroom, are found below the top floor in a semi-basement that also includes a small sunken garden made with black cobblestones.   

The exterior of the Tree House is based on clean lines and bold contrasts between rough brick and sharp black detailing. Inside, too, only a few materials have been used to create maximum clarity. Exposed brick walls are combined with custom-designed ash joinery, terrazzo tiles and finely crafted metal balustrades. All the interior design details are characterised by straight lines and a focus on the essentials. The switches and socket outlets from the Gira Esprit linoleum-plywood design line blend in perfectly, boasting a look that is modern yet effortlessly understated – in other words, very British.