is a street in Earley, near Reading University. Originally built in 1959 and published as exemplary modern design, the street is now showing its age. Nearly every house has been extended in various times and styles. We have now done two projects here on almost identical houses, something which is in itself very interesting.

It allows a second chance, which is rare in the world of extensions, and has allowed us both to refine our approach to the original houses and to develop a specific language. The projects as built are modest, and inevitably restricted by the need to relate to the existing fabric of the street. The final extensions blend in,the lost garages recalled by the retained brick walls. This is a story of persistence and modesty, of the possibilities of creating very effective habitable spaces on tight budgets.