The Victorian Terrace Transformation
This tired Victorian terrace in Clapham had not been updated in over 40 years. The layout was dark and compartmentalised, with a small kitchen at the rear separated from the dining room, and no connection to the garden. The property retained some original period features, but these were hidden under layers of paint and poor previous alterations.
Overview
The clients, a young professional couple with plans to start a family, wanted to create a spacious, open-plan living area suitable for entertaining while preserving the property’s original charm. They also wanted to improve energy efficiency and update all electrical and plumbing systems to modern standards.
Removed load-bearing wall and added rear extension
Installed full-height bi-fold doors
Restored original features and matched brickwork
Created new wet room with underfloor heating
New insulation, double glazing, and heating system
Our Solution
Ground Floor Transformation:
We removed a load-bearing wall between the front reception room and the rear dining area, installing a steel beam to support the structure above. This immediately opened up the space, allowing light to flow from front to back. At the rear, we constructed a new single-storey extension with a flat roof and large skylight, creating a bright kitchen-dining area.
Garden Connection:
The extension features full-height bi-fold doors that open completely to the garden, blurring the line between indoors and out. We laid porcelain patio tiles matching the internal flooring, creating a seamless transition for summer entertaining.
Period Features:
We restored original ceiling roses, cornicing, and the cast iron fireplace in the front reception room. These were carefully stripped back and refurbished rather than replaced, preserving the property’s character.
Bathroom:
The existing bathroom was completely stripped and reconfigured to create a modern wet room with walk-in rainfall shower, heated towel rail, and underfloor heating.
