A 7,000 sq. ft. new build residential scheme in Croydon, South London. This proposal for 7 large 2 bedroom apartments challenges the aesthetic of the contemporary suburban vernacular. Two initial considerations drove the layouts – direct access to each flat from the street and a direct view from each front door through to the garden upon entering the flat. The street facing elevation of the building mediates between the building line of its neighbours, continuing an existing rhythm of gables either side. The ground floor datum and below is clad in a reflective back painted glass to reflect the immediate surroundings. This has the effect of de-materialising the ground floor, creating the illusion of a ‘floating house’ above a garden. First floor and above is clad in earthy clay tiles, taking cues from the local context.