Nestled against the backdrop of 1930s suburban homes and adjacent to Motspur Park station in southwest London, a distinctive, ultra-modern residence known as Station Lodge is drawing attention for its unique architectural approach.
The 3,000-square-foot, jet-black building, characterized by a dramatic sloping roof and minimal windows, is the personal family home of renowned architect Andrei Saltykov, whose previous work includes contributions to Heathrow Terminal 5 and Madrid's Barajas Airport. Saltykov, who previously worked alongside architect Richard Rogers, was drawn to the site's constraints, seeing potential in the awkward triangular parcel of land that was once occupied by old garages.
Designed with privacy for both the family and neighbors in mind, the house prioritizes internal volume and light over external views. Saltykov aimed to create an internal masterpiece, a departure from conventional home design that typically emphasizes outward vistas. The location next to the railway station presented a unique challenge, which Saltykov embraced by incorporating a roof terrace that overlooks the platform.
The project received planning approval within four months, partly due to Saltykov's careful design considerations for neighborly privacy and the former unloved nature of the site. The home's structure features a three-story living area with mezzanines, an industrial-style ceiling with exposed steel beams and timber bracing, reminiscent of the Pompidou Centre. The top floor includes a study and family room opening onto the roof terrace, while the first floor houses four bedrooms.
Light enters the interior through a large window at the top of the house and frosted glass ribbons at the front. The kitchen, featuring a German-made cabinetry, has a long picture window facing the railway line, shielded by a recycled concrete panel wall. Saltykov explained his design philosophy: "To compensate for the absence of view, I made volume."
During construction, the building's unusual appearance led to local speculation, with residents inquiring if it was a library or recording studio. Passersby often express surprise upon discovering it is a residential home, with some likening it to a "big black bat cave" or a "spaceship."
Functional aspects of the design include a sloped roof that avoids blocking neighbors' light, a black aluminum exterior to conceal train dirt, and a ribbed design that funnels rainwater. Noise reduction is achieved through triple-glazed windows, insulation, and thick walls, with fresh air supplied by a heat ventilation recovery system. An interior wraparound birch ply bookcase has been incorporated to soften the potential starkness of the design.
Saltykov has also incorporated provisions for potentially dividing the house into two separate homes in the future, including foundations for a second staircase and separate plumbing infrastructure. The architect is proud of the design, emphasizing that it was not intended to be provocative but rather to achieve a superior result through unconventional means. The home participates in the annual local Open House festival, attracting hundreds of visitors, and has also been listed with a film location agency.
