Clementine Blakemore Architects has renovated a Grade II listed house from the 1840s in London into a ceramics studio for potter Tanya McCallin. A low-carbon approach was taken to modify the structure and improve its thermal efficiency, replacing a poorly constructed rear extension with a functional, creative space.

Previously, the original outrigger from the 1840s had been replaced with a full-width extension that suffered from design flaws and overheating issues. The new structure, which occupies the same footprint, consists of a single room with exposed Douglas fir beams.

The beams support fixed triple-glazed rooflights on the northern side, while an operable rooflight is positioned within a solid ceiling on the southern side. The eastern elevation has a large oak-framed window and door, with views of a densely planted garden.

The studio is functionally divided into two distinct areas. On one side, the wet studio is equipped for wedging and glazing, with a custom brushed stainless steel sink and drainer. The opposite side functions as a dry area, fitted with an adjustable oak peg shelving system designed for storing newly crafted and fired pottery. The shelves have been designed to be utilised as a display area for exhibitions and studio sales.

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