Tree Courtyard House

Tree Courtyard House is a minimalist home located in London, United Kingdom, designed by ao–ft. Situated within a conservation area, the project was guided by the presence of a mature London Plane tree, whose extensive root system shaped the home’s layout. The L-shaped plan frames the tree and garden, emphasizing functionality and accessibility while preserving the site’s natural features. Developed for a local client, the two-bedroom home eliminates traditional corridors to maximize interior space. The entrance is centrally located, leading to an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area, with the bathroom and two bedrooms positioned at opposite ends. This configuration creates smooth transitions between spaces and optimizes the compact footprint.

The design prioritizes privacy for both residents and neighbors, using a mono-pitched roof that slopes inward toward the courtyard. High-level windows offer glimpses of the tree canopy, while low-level glazing connects directly to the garden, placing the tree trunk at the visual heart of the home. The courtyard’s enclosed walls add a sense of security and enhance the spatial experience, creating a serene retreat within the urban context. Sustainability was a key focus in the home’s construction. Handmade bricks and cross-laminated timber (CLT) were chosen for their low environmental impact, and an exhaust air heat pump reduces operational carbon. The standout feature is the exposed CLT ceiling, which seamlessly connects the two pitched sections of the roof using a concealed glue-laminated beam, creating a clean and cohesive design detail.

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