Nick Eldridge: Unique Houses

Nick Eldridge is an architectural storyteller who has become renowned for his beautiful bespoke houses. This book provides a wide-ranging survey of his key projects up to the present day, including the Manser Medal-winning house, Greenways in Coombe Park. Eldridge's work explores and experiments with an innovative approach to tectonic engineering and form fused with a passion for artisanal interiors, fine detailing, and characterful materials. The projects are divided into two main sections: new build projects and highly imaginative, responsive adaptations, extensions, and reinventions of existing buildings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2022
Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd

Nick Eldridge, a renowned architect, has gained recognition for his stunning bespoke houses since founding his practice in 2001 with The Lawns, which was shortlisted for the Stirling Prize. This comprehensive book offers a sweeping survey of his key projects to date, encompassing the Manser Medal-winning house, Greenways in Coombe Park. Eldridge is an architectural storyteller, carefully responding to diverse landscapes, settings, histories, and clients, resulting in houses that explore fresh narratives while being interconnected by strong threads to a cohesive body of work.

Throughout the book, spanning from his earliest projects to his latest works, including a beach house in Shoreham, a barn conversion in Cornwall, and an innovative modern modular house in Devon, Eldridge's work explores and experiments. His houses exude a sense of freshness and uniqueness, elevated by an innovative approach to tectonic engineering and form seamlessly fused with a passion for artisanal interiors, fine detailing, and characterful materials. The projects analyzed in the book are broadly divided into two main sections: new build projects and highly imaginative, responsive adaptations, extensions, and reinventions of existing buildings.

In the new build projects, Eldridge showcases his ability to create contemporary structures that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. The Manser Medal-winning house, Greenways in Coombe Park, is a prime example of this. Set in a picturesque countryside, the house incorporates natural elements such as stone and wood, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding landscape. The use of light and shadow plays a significant role in the design, with large windows and skylights allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces.

On the other hand, the adaptations, extensions, and reinventions of existing buildings demonstrate Eldridge's talent for reimagining existing spaces. The beach house in Shoreham, for instance, is a transformation of an old coastal cottage. Eldridge has preserved the character of the original building while adding modern touches and contemporary amenities. The result is a stunning beach house that blends seamlessly with its surroundings, providing a comfortable and stylish retreat for its occupants.

The barn conversion in Cornwall is another example of Eldridge's ability to breathe new life into old structures. The conversion of a historic barn into a contemporary home has been carefully executed, preserving the original features while incorporating modern elements. The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the incorporation of contemporary design elements adds a touch of modernity.

The innovative modern modular house in Devon showcases Eldridge's expertise in contemporary architecture. The house is designed as a series of interconnected modules, allowing for flexible and customizable living spaces. The use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems ensures that the house is environmentally friendly while maintaining a high level of comfort and functionality.

Throughout the book, Eldridge's work is characterized by a thoughtful approach to design. He carefully responds to the unique characteristics of each project, incorporating local materials and traditions to create a sense of place. His attention to detail and craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of his designs, from the intricate finishes to the carefully chosen furniture and accessories.

Eldridge's varied influences are evident in his work. From the Arts & Crafts movement to mid-century modern architecture, and even hi-tech design, he has drawn inspiration from a wide range of sources. His six years working with Norman Foster, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, has undoubtedly had a significant impact on his style and approach to design.

In conclusion, Nick Eldridge's book provides a captivating glimpse into his architectural journey. Through his thoughtful responses to diverse landscapes, settings, histories, and clients, he has created a body of work that is both innovative and cohesive. His houses are a testament to his talent for storytelling and his ability to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Whether it's a new build project or an imaginative adaptation of an existing building, Eldridge's work explores and experiments, pushing the boundaries of contemporary architecture. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of architecture and the transformative power of design.

Dimension: 260 x 260 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848224209