Nestled in a charming South London neighbourhood, this property extension project was all about blending modern functionality with classic architectural charm.
Our clients, a young family, needed additional space to accommodate their evolving lifestyle. They envisioned a larger open-plan living area, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a dedicated home office—all while ensuring the extension seamlessly integrated with their existing period property.
With careful planning, high-quality craftsmanship, and a keen eye for detail, we helped bring their vision to life. In this blog, we take you through the journey of this transformation, from design and construction to the final, stunning result.
Understanding the Client’s Vision
From the outset, it was clear that our clients wanted an extension that was not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. Their key requirements included:
- A rear extension to create an open-plan kitchen and living space
- Large bi-fold doors to connect the indoors with the garden
- A home office to support remote working
- High levels of natural light through skylights and glass elements
- Sustainable and energy-efficient materials to future-proof the home
- During the consultation phase, we worked closely with our clients to explore design possibilities that would meet their needs while respecting the character of their home.
Designing the Perfect Extension Blending Old with New
One of the biggest challenges of extending a period home is ensuring the new addition complements the existing structure. For this project, we achieved this balance by using materials and design elements that echoed the property’s original features.
- Exterior: A brick finish that closely matched the existing façade maintained the property’s traditional look.
- Interior: Classic oak flooring and neutral tones created a seamless flow between old and new.
- Lighting: Contemporary pendant lights and LED strip lighting enhanced the modern aesthetic while keeping the space warm and inviting.
- Maximising Space and Light
To prevent the extension from feeling too enclosed, we incorporated large-format bi-fold doors that spanned the entire width of the rear wall. These doors opened up to a beautifully landscaped garden, creating a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
A large skylight above the kitchen further enhanced the sense of space and flooded the room with natural light. This was particularly important given the typical layout of South London terraced houses, where rear rooms can sometimes feel dark.
The Heart of the Home: A Bespoke Kitchen
The kitchen was designed to be the centrepiece of the extension. It featured:
- A large island with bar seating, ideal for casual dining and entertaining
Handleless bespoke cabinetry for a sleek, minimalist look - Quartz worktops that combined durability with luxury
- Integrated appliances to maintain a streamlined aesthetic
- A butler’s pantry to maximise storage and keep the main kitchen clutter-free
Overcoming Challenges
Every extension project presents its own set of challenges, and this one was no different. Here’s how we tackled them:
- Navigating Planning Restrictions
- Given the property’s location in a conservation area, planning permission required careful consideration. Our design team worked closely with local authorities to ensure compliance while still achieving the client’s desired outcome. By opting for materials and architectural details that complemented the neighbourhood, we secured approval without significant delays.
Managing Construction in a Tight Space
South London properties often have limited access, which can make construction logistics tricky. Our team carefully coordinated deliveries, material storage, and site access to ensure minimal disruption to both the homeowners and their neighbours.
Ensuring Energy Efficiency
Sustainability was a key priority, so we incorporated:
- High-performance insulation to improve thermal efficiency
- Triple-glazed windows to reduce heat loss and enhance soundproofing
- Underfloor heating, which is more energy-efficient than traditional radiators
- Solar panels to reduce reliance on grid electricity
The Final Transformation
Once construction was complete, the result was a stunning extension that exceeded our clients’ expectations. The new space provided them with:
- A bright and spacious open-plan living area perfect for family life
- A high-end kitchen designed for both functionality and style
- A seamless indoor-outdoor connection, making summer entertaining a breeze
- A dedicated home office, offering a quiet and productive workspace
- Increased property value, making it a smart investment for the future
Client Testimonial
“We couldn’t be happier with our new extension. The space feels so much bigger and brighter, and the attention to detail is incredible. The team managed the entire project professionally, keeping us informed every step of the way. We now have a home that truly works for our family, and we love every inch of it!”
Thinking of Extending Your Home?
A well-designed extension can transform your home, improving both its functionality and value. Whether you’re looking to create an open-plan living area, add a home office, or simply gain more space, we can help.
Contact us today for a consultation and start your home transformation journey!
