The project at Montague Court includes the renovation and extension of an existing apartment situated within a former synagogue in Hackney. The existing property is transformed  through the insertion of naturally lit, naturally ventilated, insulated timber structure within an existing North-facing courtyard.

Originally a synagogue built in 1902, and converted to housing in the 1990s, this significant building is characterised by its distinctive octagonal form, large Crittel windows, Hebrew lettering, and the irregular courtyard gardens which hug the perimeter of the building.

The new extension is shaped by the highly unusual geometry of the site. Slotted directly between the existing brick walls of the synagogue and site boundary, is a structure of 7 softwood posts with a beautiful triangulated roof formed from bespoke metal flitch plates and deep softwood joists. This innovative structural solution creates a lofty, dynamic and unexpected space. Large triangular roof lights bring north light into the space, transforming this formally dark and unused courtyard, whilst retaining the sun-filled South-facing garden.