SAY Architects were appointed to prepare the planning application for an extensive basement and garden room in a large Georgian house. The basement extension is to provide the family with additional living and play areas, guest accommodation, gym and wine cellar. The proposed basement extends the full length and width of the garden.

SAY’s challenge was to design adequate day lighting into the basement and to ensure it would not feel subterranean. The proportion of the lawn area above the basement is based on a five-a-side football pitch, as the clients have two young boys who love to play.