BUILD Q2 2019

11 Q2 2019 BUILD Solam obtained a degree in Architecture at La Salle University in Bogota, Colombia, and is qualified in the UK as a Chartered Architectural Technologist and Chartered Building Engineer. Solam won the Women in Construction and Engineering (WICE) award as the “Best Woman Architectural Technologist in Europe 2017”. SA’s renovation designs are characterised by introducing surprising spaces to conventional buildings. The sense of the “place”, and the context in which the design is executed, is cru- cial in each case. There is no overall defining characteristic to their projects other than high architectural coherence, fantastic circulation, stunning interiors, and their absolute requirement for the highest quality of workmanship. This is universally true whether designed in a modern style, or in the vernacular. When extension work is undertaken the focus is on providing spaces which the host building can never provide due to constraints restricting their modification. Vaulted ceilings, double height spaces, and extensive fenestration provide light and joyful modern spaces, which work in harmony with the traditional and historically proportioned spaces of the listed property. Their selection of traditional and modern material palates re- spects the key characteristics and nature of the building. Due to the variable and generally damp weather, historic structures are vulnerable to damage from wet and dry rot, and also a variety of wood boring insects. In extending and altering the structures it is vital to understand the nature of the host property and specify appropriate materials which respect the environment and per- formance of the structure. This can often mean the use of traditional materials, however the use of modern and innovative materials with desirable prop- erties is also often appropriate. Buildings built earlier than 1930, are mostly of solid wall construction and must allow the passage of moisture through the wall structure. This helps to avoid creating moist conditions which allow for potentially disastrous defects to arise. A good example of this is their sensitive and complete resto- ration of Wacton Hall, a Grade II* 16th century moated manor. Unfortunately, earlier refurbishment work which did not respect the nature of the property had left this nationally significant building near collapse. The property is now sensitively restored, and uses a variety of modern and traditional materials without loss or damage to the historic fabric of this important heritage asset. With the quality of work James and Solam Sizer are producing, it is clear that The BUILD Ones to Watch in England 2019 is unlikely to be the last accolade they receive. If you are looking for a great large extension to a listed, or non listed property please contact us on: James Sizer - Director, MCIAT C.Build MCABE ICIOB Solam Sizer - Director, MCIAT C.Build E FCABE MFPWS Dip Arch Tel: 01603 713 528 [email protected] www.sastudio.co.uk