Architectural Cases

In a remarkable architectural endeavor, the UK-based firm Studio Hallett Ike has breathed new life into Cemetery House, a historic Gothic-style lodge nestled within a London cemetery. This Grade II-listed Victorian structure, originally conceived by Thomas Little in 1855 as a vicarage for the Paddington Cemetery, has undergone a comprehensive transformation that marries its historical roots with contemporary design principles. The project’s ethos was to create a space that balances its inherent architectural gravitas with a welcoming, earthy feel, drawing inspiration from diverse global design traditions.

The expansion and refurbishment focused on extending the ground and first floors, introducing new spatial dynamics while preserving the lodge's unique character. On the ground level, a newly established central axis now connects the entrance directly to the garden through expansive glass doors, dissolving the former compartmentalized layout and fostering a sense of openness. Living areas are subtly delineated by variations in floor levels, featuring a raised dining space and a recessed conversation pit adjacent to a modern kitchen, which is housed within the new extension. The kitchen itself is a focal point, boasting full-height sliding glass doors that open onto a revamped garden, complete with a tiered concrete patio and an outdoor fireplace, all framed by a pristine white stucco wall. Upstairs, the extension incorporates a new dressing room and an opulent en-suite bathroom, distinguished by a large micro-cement bath and elegant travertine sinks, with a pointed archway connecting it to the bedroom, echoing the lodge's original Gothic windows.

The exterior additions feature pale Petersen Kolumba brickwork, with the ground floor extension capped by a cast concrete spandrel beam, showcasing deep reveals and precise brick detailing that contribute to the facade's visual depth and solidity. This meticulous project by Studio Hallett Ike, founded by Jonty Hallett and Madeleine Ike in 2018, exemplifies their commitment to understated yet impactful interventions, creating spaces that are confident, minimal, and timeless. Through thoughtful design, Cemetery House has been reimagined as a calm and grounded architectural statement, seamlessly integrating historical charm with modern functionality and a refined rustic sensibility.

This renovation project serves as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in preserving heritage while adapting to contemporary needs. It showcases how historical structures can be revitalized to offer both comfort and aesthetic pleasure, demonstrating a harmonious coexistence between past and present. The fusion of diverse architectural influences within a sensitive historical context provides a beacon of innovative design that enriches the urban landscape and inspires future architectural endeavors.

Lanza Atelier, an architectural firm recognized for its innovative work in pavilions, furnishings, and residential structures, has crafted this year's Serpentine Pavilion. The firm emphasizes that architectural principles hold equal importance across all scales of design. Their contribution for the 25th anniversary of the Serpentine Pavilion commission, titled 'A Serpentine,' draws inspiration from the distinctive serpentine walls, also known as crinkle-crankle walls, characteristic of English brick garden architecture. These walls are renowned for their wave-like form, which, despite being only one brick thick, offers exceptional stability.

The Serpentine Pavilion's construction utilizes Sienna bricks, a common building material in the UK, highlighting the designers' dedication to incorporating local, time-honored elements. The architects articulated that their design skillfully blends architectural history with contemporary elements, creating a meaningful dialogue between past and present. They also observed that, uniquely, no previous Serpentine Pavilions had utilized brick as a primary construction material. The firm's approach is deeply influenced by Mexico City's urban landscape, where extensive self-built structures offer a rich learning environment for understanding various built forms.

Lanza Atelier’s philosophy places a high value on experimentation and a deep engagement with local materials and lived experiences. This methodology encourages a playful exploration of project objectives, allowing the design process to naturally unfold and lead to unexpected and innovative outcomes. Their previous projects, such as a circular platform with dripping chains in a Mexico City plaza and a temporary wood-and-steel gathering space, exemplify their commitment to creative and contextually responsive design. The Serpentine Pavilion will be open to the public from June 6 to October 25, 2026, at the Serpentine Galleries in London, offering a unique architectural experience.

The Lanza Atelier's Serpentine Pavilion stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design that respects historical precedent while pushing contemporary boundaries. By reimagining a humble garden wall into a grand public installation, the architects demonstrate that innovation often lies in reinterpreting familiar concepts through fresh eyes. This project reminds us that true artistry in architecture is not merely about creating new forms but also about engaging with materials, history, and community in a way that enriches our shared environment and inspires a deeper appreciation for the built world around us.