09/12/2025
Marygate is deep retrofit of a neoclassical house on one of York’s most historic streets. Tucked away behind stone boundary walls and adjacent to Museum Gardens, the site is as well positioned, as it is hidden.
Our clients, were ambitious with the brief, and bold in their choice of property. Whilst the house required significant vision on their part, they have played a significant part in developing a scheme which embraces the site’s seclusion, embraces family living and shows off their eye for detail.
A pavilion style brick extension reaches out into the garden, a blend of solid brickwork and full height glazing which forms an open plan kitchen and family dining space. The elegant glazing provides dual views towards an arrival courtyard, and the garden.
Various interventions to the façade and fenestration give the house a contemporary feel, whilst retaining a sense of the original dwelling.
Internally the house is linked by a strong axis on the main entrance hall, linking the main living spaces and staircase to the first floor.
At first floor level, windows were increased in size, with a large glazed screen and timber opening leaf for ventilation. This increases natural light, creates a stronger connection to the garden, whilst the master en-suite enjoys views of the Minster.
Materials are considered and robust, with a polished concrete floor uniting most areas of the ground floor. A concrete worktop with pebbles from family holidays is a particularly personal touch, whilst artwork from Georgie (a contemporary landscape artist) and the couple’s collection add character and meaning to the spaces. A timber screen conceals a hidden a pantry positioned off the kitchen, meaning the space functions whilst retaining a sense of calm.
The best projects unite the client, the brief, and the site. This project shows what can be achieved when a thoughtful, disciplined design process is applied.
Thank you to our wonderful client, talented contractor and amazing for the beautiful 📸
