About House Renovations with Scenario
Scenario is an established architecture practice focusing on contemporary residential design and high-quality house renovation. We take on projects of every scale and scope, from home refurbishment, renovation and expansions to new-builds. Our dynamic London-based studio launched in 2007 with a vision to take Britain’s elegant period architecture into the 21st century, using technological skill, modern, durable elements and big ideas. We match each scenario to the client, tailoring spaces according to their long-term needs.Projects
Wine cellar design for single storey extension in Beaconsfield
Bespoke integrated wine storage. Design by Wine Architecture, our consultants for wine, spirit and cocktail spaces.
Starting your wine cellar design
Wine Cellar Design Your project
If you are planning to hire an architect for your wine cellar design, read our brief illustrated overview. It will help you understand the various stages of the design process.
Most architectural projects require planning permission from the local council, although a wine cellar may not. Consider asking an architecture firm to help. Our studio has had great success securing planning permission on behalf of our clients.
Sunny basement swimming pool in the heart of London
Complete renovation and extension Muswell Hill- London
Your House Renovation project
Working closely with our clients, we always aim to maximise space without sacrificing period charm. The results have helped make Britain’s most treasured architecture functional, liveable and covetable in the long term, a key goal in every house renovation we undertake. Our landmark project Scenario House is a contemporary, light-filled home adapted from a Victorian terrace in East London. It has been shortlisted for several architecture prizes, including the prestigious RIBA London Award, and stands as an inspiring example of modern home improvement at an architectural level. We use the latest 3D design and visualisation technology to streamline our process. Our building information modelling technology (BIM) produces reliable construction information and accurate data to save clients time and money, an essential advantage for anyone undertaking a full renovation. This Chartered Institute of Building case study, featuring one of our flagship projects, highlights the benefits of using advanced technology for modern house design and renovation planning. A RIBA Chartered Practice, Scenario complies with essential criteria covering insurance, health and safety and quality-management systems, giving clients confidence throughout their house renovation journey.If you are thinking about starting an architectural project in London, be it a renovation, an extension to an existing property or even a new build house we are here to help.
We created a brief and illustrated overview of the process to help you understand what to expect through the various stages of a residential, extension, renovation or new build project in London.
Most projects need planning permission from your local council.
TIP: To find out the actual track record which any architects you may be considering has with your local council, go to the planning application search page on your local council’s website and use the search by agent option.
Tip
Working with Scenario Architecture on your wine cellar design
Wine Cellar Design Your project
Scenario is a boutique studio of skilled architects focusing on contemporary residential design. We take on projects of every scale and scope, from renovations and expansions to new-build houses.
We collaborate with our clients at every step, from the initial concept through to construction, and we aim to complete all projects on time and on budget.
We use the latest 3D design and visualisation technology to streamline the process. Our building information modelling technology (BIM) produces reliable construction information and accurate data to save time and money. This Chartered Institute of Building case study, featuring one of our flagship projects, demonstrates the benefits of advanced technology for modern house design.
A RIBA Chartered Practice, Scenario complies with essential criteria covering insurance, health and safety and quality-management systems.
Working with Scenario Architecture on your London project
Established in 2007, Scenario Architecture is a boutique architecture studio focused on the high-end residential sector, working extensively throughout and around London. We specialise in every scale and type of domestic project, from interior alterations, through full renovations and refurbishments to new build homes. We offer a full bespoke architecture service tailored to fit your requirements and aspirations.
Our friendly and highly skilled team has the knowledge, experience and expertise necessary to take you step-by-step through the challenging and exciting journey of creating your new home. We will work together with you in close collaboration from initial design, through detail design and planning all the way to tender, construction and successful completion of your project on time and within budget.
Scenario Architecture is an RIBA Chartered Practice, which essentially means that we are compliant with the RIBA (Royal Institute of Chartered Architects) strict criteria, covering insurance, health and safety and quality management systems.
As early adopters of latest technology, we use as a standard for all projects a verity of innovative 3D design and visualisation tools to create and communicate design with our clients. Our experience shows that Real-Time visualisations and Virtual Reality tours are extremely powerful tools to streamline the process of choosing material finishes fixtures and fittings as well as simulating realistic natural light conditions.
When we produce accurate and reliable construction information we use the latest 3D BIM technology, (BIM stands for Building Information Modelling) which means that all project information is derived from a single accurate and coordinated 3D model. Using this cutting-edge technology collaboratively with other consultants as well as contractors has proven to save time and cost for our clients.
A case study featuring one of our projects was published by the Chartered Institute of Building, demonstrating the great benefits of this advanced technology specifically with domestic projects.
Wine cellar for home counties Edwardian house renovation
Wine Cellar design with open shelves, Design by Wine Architecture, our consultants for wine spaces.
Scenario is an established architecture practice focusing on contemporary residential design. We take on projects of every scale and scope, from home refurbishment, renovation and expansions to new-builds.
Man’s love affair with wine dates back thousands of years. In 2013 the first known wine cellar, dating back 3,600 years, was discovered in the former Canaanite city of Tel Kabri, Israel. Much like today’s best wine cellar design, even the most rudimentary cellars from Roman times through the Middle Ages and beyond revolved around keeping wines cool, shielding them from the damaging effects of the sun and preserving them from spoilage. But whatever the era, a well-stocked wine cellar has always been a symbol of status, wealth and culture, in the realm of royalty and aristocracy.
In recent times, wine cellar design has made huge technological leaps. Wine cellars or wine rooms are becoming must-have home additions. But embarking on such a venture requires some consideration about space, temperature and humidity control, long-term maintenance and materials to enhance the look and feel.
Scenario can help you to design a bespoke wine cellar and guide you through the many options available. Our experienced team will discuss the importance of leaving room for cellar growth (around 30 per cent growth room is recommended) and review the sort of bottles you’ve been collecting – the type of wine you treasure will influence the racking system you decide to install. For long-term wine storage, the ideal temperature is between 12ºC and 15ºC. And to ensure corks do not dry out, humidity should be between 50% and 70%.
At Scenario, we’ve helped several clients who long for the luxury of a bespoke wine room but don’t feel they have the space. We’ve been able to get around a whole host of challenges, including intrusive stairwells, low ceilings, strange angles and narrow spaces. Your wine cellar design is all about understanding the space you have available and making it work for you, rather than trying to force something into a space that is not going to work or fit properly.
With all the practicalities out of the way, you can proceed to aesthetics, show off your own personal style and have fun with it. Look around online and in design magazines for inspiration. And do plenty of research on sites like Pinterest, Houzz and Instagram, where you can scroll through the endless possibilities for wine cellar design – from spiral sunken systems and glass enclosures with floating stainless steel racks to concrete catacombs and mahogany monoliths. Then let Scenario make the possibilities a reality.
House Extensions House Extension Cost
The House Extension Cost varies. This will depend on the scale, design, exterior materials and interior finishes of your extension. Before designing an initial concept for our clients, we discuss their big-picture aspirations and daily requirements.
When we budget the House Extension Cost on any home, we must consider the different types of extensions. Extending upward with a loft extension, for example, is often significantly cheaper than a side-return extension and rear house extension and most definitely a basement extension.
We understand our clients’ desire to understand the cost of building an extension before committing to the process. For a single-storey extension – be it a side-return extension or rear house extension – we allow between £2,000 and £2,500 per square metre, depending on finishes. These figures can also apply to renovating the existing areas within a house.
When it comes to loft extensions, it’s best to stay away from square-metre calculations as these may be confusing and misleading due to varying head-height requirements, kitchen and bathroom requirements and roof repairs. Generally we allow between £35,000 and £55,000 for loft extensions, depending on finishes.
Excavating a new basement is a great way to add significant floor space to your house with limited planning regulations. However the House Extension Cost per square metre is, by far, the highest in a basement. We allow between £3,000 and £3,500 per square metre, subject to finishes.
Our House Renovation Process
At Scenario, our architect-led full house renovation services take you from the first consultation through to project completion, ensuring your home is both functional and beautifully tailored to your lifestyle.Appointment
Our process begins with an initial consultation to discuss your goals, budget, and vision, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect from your house renovation project.Stage 1: Preparation
During this stage, we conduct surveys, create accurate 3D BIM models, and develop a detailed brief to ensure every aspect of your home is ready for design and planning.Stage 2: Initial Design
We turn your brief into detailed 3D visualisations and concept designs that reflect your lifestyle and the unique character of your property, creating a strong foundation for your full house renovation services.Stage 3: Planning
All necessary documentation for planning approvals is prepared and submitted, and we navigate local council requirements to ensure your project meets all relevant planning regulations.Stage 4: Design & Tender
Materials, fixtures, and technical specifications are finalised, and we prepare detailed documentation for contractor selection to guarantee a smooth and accurate build.Stage 5: Construction
Construction is carefully managed with regular site inspections and coordination with contractors, ensuring your house renovation services are executed efficiently and to the highest standard.Stage 6: Hand Over
After completion, final inspections and minor adjustments are carried out, and guidance is provided for long-term enjoyment, completing your house renovation journey. Scenario is an established architecture practice specialising in contemporary residential design, delivering projects of every scale and scope, from home refurbishment, renovation, and expansions to bespoke new-builds.Nearly any property you purchase in the southeast will retain or accrue value. When and if it turns out you need more living space, you’ll want any enhancements you make to the size of your home to enhance your asset, too.
A good architect will factor in your home’s location, layout, structural integrity and the size of your family to make your project work for you and your budget. A house extension cost shouldn’t cancel out the benefits of a house extension.
Unless your investment is a purpose-built flat, you should be able to gain extra space that suits your lifestyle. If you own just part of a house, you can build up, down or out, depending on your specific location. If you own the entire house, chances are better you can add substantial square metres.
In some neighbourhoods around London, loft extensions and side-return extensions (recouping the side-rear void often left open between terraced houses) are grouped under “permitted development”, which means they sometimes don’t require planning permission from the local council if the final plans heed the extended volume requirements of the area. Avoiding time-consuming planning applications will save you money in the short run.
On the topic of money: it’s always difficult to propose a house extension cost without evaluating the home in question, the resident family and their plans. But it’s likely you can nearly double the size of your home’s original square-metre floor area at a fraction of the cost of the original house. Plus you will, of course, gain a nearly new living space without paying the stamp duty and agents’ fees associated with moving house – although you may need to purchase renovations insurance.
As with most building-related activity, it is wise to source three to five quotes for a house extension. With a range of budgets to hand, you’ll be able to assess which seem low, high and just about right, and choose accordingly. The foundation, walls and roof will soak up about 15% of your costs, followed by Velux and rear glazing.
You’ll want to price fixtures, fittings, appliances and any upgraded materials separately, so as not to be shocked when you receive that last bill – new kitchens are particularly dear, so keep your eyes out for deals and floor sales in the months leading up to a project. Once you’ve agreed on a budget, set up a payment plan with your architect and builders that works for everyone.
The House Extension Cost varies and this will depend on the scale, design, exterior materials and interior finishes of your extension. Before designing an initial concept for our clients, we discuss their big-picture aspirations and daily requirements.
When we budget the House Extension Cost on any home, we must consider the different types of extensions projects. Extending upward with a loft extension, for example, is often significantly cheaper than a side-return extension and rear house extension and most definitely a basement extension.
We understand our clients’ desire to understand the cost of building an extension before committing to the process. For a single-storey extension – be it a side-return extension or rear house extension – we allow between £2,500 and £3,000 per square metre, depending on finishes. These figures can also apply to renovating the existing areas within a house.
Excavating a new basement is a great way to add significant floor space to your house with limited planning regulations. However the House Extension Cost per square metre is, by far, the highest in a basement. We allow between £3,000 and £3,500 per square metre, subject to finishes.
Working with Scenario Architecture
Working closely with our clients, we always aim to maximise space without sacrificing period charm. From creative extensions to basement conversions, the results have helped make Britain’s most treasured architecture functional, liveable and covetable in the long term. Our landmark project Scenario House is a contemporary, light-filled home adapted from a Victorian terrace in East London. It has been shortlisted for several architecture prizes, including the prestigious RIBA London Award. We use the latest 3D design and visualisation technology to streamline our process. Our building information modelling technology (BIM) produces reliable construction information and accurate data to save clients time and money. This Chartered Institute of Building case study, featuring one of our flagship projects, highlights the benefits of using advanced technology for modern house design. A RIBA Chartered Practice, Scenario complies with essential criteria covering insurance, health and safety and quality-management systems.You’ve bought a home. In and around London, that’s no mean feat. Nearly any property you purchase in the southeast will retain or accrue value. When and if it turns out you need more living space, you’ll want any enhancements you make to the size of your home to enhance your asset, too.
A good architect will factor in your home’s location, layout, structural integrity and the size of your family to make your project work for you and your budget. A house extension cost shouldn’t cancel out the benefits of a house extension.
Unless your investment is a purpose-built flat, you should be able to gain extra space that suits your lifestyle. If you own just part of a house, you can built up, down or out, depending on your specific location. If you own the entire house, chances are better you can add substantial square footage.
In some neighbourhoods around London, loft extensions and side-return extensions (recouping the side-rear void often left open between terraced houses) are grouped under “permitted development”, which means they don’t require planning permission from the local council if the final plans heed the extended volume requirements of the area. Avoiding time-consuming planning applications will save you money in the short run.
On the topic of money: it’s always difficult to project a house extension cost without evaluating the home in question, the resident family and their plans. But it’s likely you can nearly double the size of your home’s original square-metre floor area at a fraction of the cost of the original house, even at upwards of £2,000 per square metre. Plus you will, of course, gain a nearly new living space without paying the stamp duty and agents’ fees associated with moving house – although you may need to purchase renovations insurance.
As with most building-related activity, it is wise to source three to five quotes for a house extension. With a range of budgets to hand, you’ll be able to assess which seem low, high and just about right, and choose accordingly. The foundation, walls and roof will soak up about 15% of your costs, followed by Velux and rear glazing.
You’ll want to price fixtures, fittings, appliances and any upgraded materials separately, so as not to be shocked when you receive that last bill – new kitchens are particularly dear, so keep your eyes out for deals and floor sales in the months leading up to a project. Once you’ve agreed on a budget, set up a payment plan with your architect and builders that works for everyone.
In our client's words
We wanted to renovate our house in a conservation area in central London. Given this involved a complete demolition and new build with an extra floor on top, getting planning approval was always going to be tricky. Scenario did an amazing job on the new house 'envelope' and throughout the planning phase. We couldn't have wished for better from them and having succeeded in gaining planning approval owe them a very big 'thank you'. 
Scenario designed a kitchen extension for us, and we are delighted with the results. The process was well organised, planned and delivered, and the whole team were a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend them for their design, planning and project management skills. 
Worked with these guys on the internal development of our office. From start to finish they were great. They got what we wanted first time and really made working with them very easy. Their aftercare has been great too helping us deal with something that they were not involved with in the first place. Will highly recommend them to anyone. See all Google reviews
Further Reading
We’ve all been guilty of visiting a neighbour’s house and coveting their spacious, light-filled side-return kitchen or their airy loft. Or else we’ve pored over interiors magazines and design sites for creative transformations in fabulous colour palettes. If moving house isn’t an option for creating your dream home, a house renovation is the way to go. However, major home improvements can be a daunting, if exciting, prospect. Seeing and coveting someone else’s dream space is one thing; actually achieving it is a whole other ballgame. This is where an architect can be worth their weight in gold for helping you visualise your plans and turn them into a satisfying reality.
A house renovation can be as small or large as you want it to be, from transforming a powder room or replacing small windows with large glass doors to an entire home overhaul. In 2010, the independent discussion forum New London Architecture founded the ‘Don’t Move, Improve’ awards to celebrate the creative and ingenious solutions that Londoners were using to improve their homes. Over the past ten years, these pioneering awards have continued to shine a light on innovative home renovation projects, which have included homes at the top of water towers and on the narrowest of plots, as well as sunken Japanese-style baths, floating gardens and secret sliding staircases.
These homes demand more from every space, pay greater attention to the specific needs of the homeowners and take ever more daring risks in terms of materials and aesthetics while still being tailored to ever-increasing constraints and smaller budgets. It’s no surprise, then, to find that Scenario has been nominated twice for these awards.
The experienced team at Scenario can help you conceive your own bespoke house renovation or refurbishment and guide you through the many options available to you, as well as the various considerations that need to be taken into account to ensure you get a house that’s functional and adaptable, but also offers maximum pleasure and a touch of wow-factor. For house renovation and refurbishment inspiration, have a look through design and interiors magazines, and online at sites like Pinterest, Houzz and Instagram, where you can see the endless possibilities.
Further Reading
We’ve all been guilty of visiting a neighbour’s house and coveting their spacious, light-filled side-return kitchen or their airy loft. Or else we’ve pored over interior magazines and design sites for creative transformations in fabulous colour palettes. If moving house isn’t an option for creating your dream home, a house renovation is the way to go. However, major home improvements can be a daunting, if exciting, prospect. Seeing and coveting someone else’s dream space is one thing; actually achieving it is a whole other ballgame. This is where an architect can be worth their weight in gold for helping you visualise your plans and turn them into a satisfying reality.
A home renovation can be as small or large as you want it to be, from transforming a powder room or replacing small windows with large glass doors to an entire home overhaul. For homeowners looking to make a complete transformation, Scenario provides full renovation and property renovation guidance, leading every step from concept to completion. In 2010, the independent discussion forum New London Architecture founded the ‘Don’t Move, Improve’ awards to celebrate the creative and ingenious solutions that homeowners were using to improve their homes. Over the past ten years, these pioneering awards have continued to shine a light on innovative house renovation projects, which have included homes at the top of water towers and on the narrowest of plots, as well as sunken Japanese-style baths, floating gardens and secret sliding staircases.
These homes demand more from every space, pay greater attention to the specific needs of the homeowners and take ever more daring risks in terms of materials and aesthetics while still being tailored to ever-increasing constraints and smaller budgets.
It’s no wonder that Scenario has been recognised multiple times for our innovative work.
Our experienced team can help you conceive your own bespoke home makeover, ensuring every detail reflects your lifestyle and preferences. We also provide guidance on property refurbishment, helping you upgrade spaces efficiently and beautifully. For broader enhancements, our expertise in home design enhancement ensures your interiors are both functional and inspiring. Additionally, our residential improvement services focus on making your home adaptable, comfortable, and full of wow-factor. For inspiration, explore design magazines, Pinterest, Houzz, and Instagram to discover endless possibilities for your next house renovation.
