A residential ground floor renovation in North London

As you enter this charming semi-detached North London home, the original detailing greets you; from the ornate front porch and door, to the fine cornice detailing around the ceiling. While maintaining elements of the original layout arranged around independent rooms (as requested by the client), we created a newly open plan ground floor that houses a modern kitchen /dining space, extending out into the back garden. 

The new space is filled with natural light from both the large skylight positioned over the dining table, as well as the expansive glass doors that allow this family to bring the outside in and maximise the home’s connection to the garden. 

The kitchen comes complete with modern fixtures, from the stainless steel appliances to the latest in composite countertops. A dedicated walk-in pantry and a large run of tall cupboards created over 50% more usable storage, a key request for this family home. 

The new rear facade of the extension is clad in a beautiful black timber that has been charred using the traditional Japanese wood preservation technique known as Yakisugi (yaki means ‘to heat’ while sugi means ‘cypress’). The technique calls for a light charring of the surface of the wood, without setting it alight. This material is waterproof and creates a finish that is far more durable, insect resistant and also fire retardant.

The renovation works extend out into the garden, where a new patio was installed with concrete tiles and bright timber fencing; a complimentary palette of materials that creates a beautiful synergy between the indoors and outdoors. The result is a bright, comfortable and modern new family space.