The redesign of this terraced house in Kensington is based around the opening up and reconfiguration of the staircase. A rearrangement of the circulation pattern and the addition of a large skylight above has the effect of carving out an open gallery. This gives a central space filled with light that provides a connection between the sky and the surrounding spaces.
The staircase is a sculptural element that steps through the plan and sinuously rises through this space. The generosity of this gallery allows the insertion of a small additional area accessed via the son’s bedroom that functions as a place to play with lego.
A rear extension at lower ground level gives a more comfortable dining and kitchen space that relates to the garden beyond. The patio, deck above and staircase that joins them are unified through the use of a single stone on all horizontal surfaces.