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BRIAR COTTAGE
LONDON

Type: Double-storey extension & internal modification works

Services: Structural Design and Consultancy

At Briar Cottage, MMHM Structures Ltd provided the structural engineering design for a stunning transformation of a listed home. The project includes a contemporary double-storey extension and internal alterations that create bright, open living spaces while preserving the property’s historic character.

Our engineers developed a smart, practical structural solution — including screw pile foundations and a discreet steel frame — to ensure the design could be built efficiently, safely, and within budget. The result is a beautifully balanced blend of modern living and heritage craftsmanship, underpinned by reliable structural engineering that brings the architect’s vision to life.

Location

London

Area

204 sqm

Timeline

2025 - present

Year

2025

This project transforms a traditional listed London property through a contemporary double-storey extension and a series of sensitive internal modification works. The development introduces bright, open-plan living spaces across two floors, significantly enhancing the functionality, flow, and overall value of the home while preserving its period character.

MMHM Structures provided full structural design services, working closely with the client, architect, and homeowner to deliver a robust, cost-effective, and sympathetic design that respected the historic fabric of the listed building. The structural scheme was carefully developed to integrate seamlessly with both the existing and new elements, supporting refined architectural detailing while ensuring the building’s integrity, stability, and long-term performance.

WHAT WE DID

The structure was engineered to achieve open internal layouts while maintaining stability, efficiency, and full compliance with current British Standards.

Key structural features include:

  • Foundation / Substructure: The foundation system comprises screw piles, steel ground beams encased in concrete, and reinforced pad foundations designed for London clay conditions. The presence of mature trees in close proximity to the site dictated the use of screw piles, providing a low-vibration, environmentally considerate solution that minimises root disturbance and ground movement. Screw piles also generate minimal site waste, as they require very limited excavation compared to traditional foundation systems, resulting in cleaner, faster, and more sustainable installation. This configuration efficiently transfers concentrated loads from the new extension while protecting the existing listed structure.
 
  • Superstructure (Above-Ground Structure): The ground floor is formed using a precast concrete beam-and-block suspended floor system, providing a robust and durable base that accommodates service integration and uniform load distribution.
 
  • The first floor and roof structure utilise a steel frame system supported by both existing and new load-bearing masonry walls, infilled with light timber floors and roof construction. This hybrid arrangement supports extended masonry above, integrates seamlessly with the existing structure, and ensures continuity, durability, and long-term structural performance.

OUR APPROACH

MMHM Structures Ltd’s approach combined technical precision, practicality, and sensitivity to the character of the listed property. Early engagement with the homeowner and architect allowed the team to refine the design for buildability, cost efficiency, and minimal impact on the existing structure. Each structural element — from foundations to steel framing — was developed as a sympathetic, tailor-fitted solution that respected the building’s historic fabric while delivering modern performance and comfort. The outcome is a design that balances heritage preservation with engineering innovation, ensuring strength, stability, and value aligned with the client’s vision.

WHAT THIS PROJECT DEMONSTRATES

  • Buildability and Efficiency: Early coordination between MMHM Structures Ltd, the architect, and the contractor ensured that every structural element could be efficiently constructed, minimising on-site complexity and waste.
 
  • Client-Focused Solutions: The design was carefully balanced to achieve the client’s vision within the project’s budget, prioritising practical, real-world engineering outcomes that deliver lasting value.
 
  • Sustainable Engineering: The chosen foundation system reduced excavation and site waste, providing a low-impact, environmentally considerate solution that supports the project’s long-term resilience.
  • Sympathetic Design: A tailored structural solution developed with full consideration for the listed building’s historic fabric, ensuring all new works integrate seamlessly with existing elements while preserving architectural character.
 
  • Technical Innovation: The use of screw piles and hybrid structural systems demonstrates adaptive engineering, allowing for stability and performance on a constrained site surrounded by mature trees.

OUR ROLE

  • Provided full structural design of all primary and secondary elements, including beams, columns, and foundations.
 
  • Developed steel and hybrid structural solutions to achieve the open-plan design intent while working within the constraints of the listed building.
 
  • Designed and detailed foundation systems incorporating screw piles and ground beams to address challenging ground conditions and nearby tree influence.
 
  • Worked in close coordination with the project architect and contractor to ensure buildability, cost efficiency, and minimal disruption to the existing structure.
 
  • Delivered ongoing structural input throughout the design and construction stages to maintain quality, compliance with British Standards, and long-term project value.

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