Adjaye Associates restored a derelict house with illegal secret tunnels in London, using reclaimed bricks and leaving distressed render to add to the bunker-style appearance.

Mole House is a three-storey live-work space for artist Sue Webster. The project is defined by restoration, material authenticity and an elevated functionality.

Although the original external masonry has been preserved, new concrete bay windows bordered by bronze frames protrude beneath a concrete band, slicing through the house horizontally.

Internally, a cross-shaped concrete structure divides each floor into four zones and features a cantilevered staircase and skylight. The interior spaces are characterised by a minimal material palette of exposed concrete and timber.

This project has been longlisted in the residential rebirth project category of Dezeen Awards 2020.

Architect: Adjaye Associates
Project: Mole House
Read more: Adjaye Associates