Alexander Martin Architects has completed Foley Road, a new house for a young Surrey family that reinterprets the surrounding arts and crafts aesthetic in contemporary form. The client sought an innovative response to the site, so the house was built quickly using modern architectural methods, using simple, sturdy materials to create an elegant interior and exterior, redefining the aspirations of suburban architecture.

The new building replaces a smaller 1920s house that occupies a fairly large triangular plot and sits at a bend in the road. The architects were quick and able to take advantage of this shape and create two sloping volumes connected by a double-height central section. The roof lines reflect the surrounding buildings, but the facades and vertical strips were chosen in pale yellow brick, with colour to clearly distinguish the house from its surroundings. Large Windows bring light to the front and back of the building, and large sliding doors provide access to the garden.

Inside, a monochrome palette matched the owners' request, with exposed concrete floors, black steel staircases and black veneer joinery giving an intense yet minimalist look. This is balanced by marble used in the bathrooms and softer interior furniture. The rich material composition presents a timeless quality and the creation is a calm background for living.

It was clear to Alexander Martin that the client wanted something out of the ordinary from the start, so they were ready to do something bold in the suburbs. However, the designs and materials have been carefully arranged to create a series of Spaces that best meet the family's needs, while still maintaining the home has an elegant appearance.