A Hackney couple approached us with the opportunity to extend their Victorian home to enlarge the kitchen and design easier transitions between the living areas. They also wanted to improve access, light and fresh air to the basement. In the south-facing rear garden were mature trees and flowerbeds planted by the family. We took care to integrate these into our design.
We created a small internal light well directly above the basement stairs, connecting the lower-ground lounge and office with the kitchen above. New rooflights above the stairwell keep the basement bright. In the original home the family dog, Bella, had a favourite spot next to the dining table. In the current layout she chose a cosy space between the table and the basement staircase. With the new dining room situated between the rooflights and rear glazing, it feels like a year-round terrace.
Out in the garden the flowerbeds follow a curve, merging into a bench that flows seamlessly into the house. This indoor-outdoor seating provides continuity between indoors and out.
> Read more about extending and renovating period houses
Photography: Matt Clayton