Gallery
A glimpse of the house’s origin
Constructed between 1879 and 1900, the house boasted a three-storey rear return with a flat roof, encapsulating the essence of Victorian architecture. Over time, it had been divided into two separate flats, reflecting the changing needs of its occupants. The property, while rich in historical charm, was in need of substantial refurbishment.
The vision
The ambitious project aimed not only to breathe new life into the ageing building but also to shape it into a contemporary haven for a modern family. The renovation plan included a complete overhaul of internal finishes, demolishing existing extensions and introducing a new single-storey rear extension that extended 1m deeper into the garden.
The challenge was to create an open, light-filled space while respecting the historical context of the South Hampstead conservation area. The project took a meticulous two years to navigate through the intricate process of obtaining planning approvals, ensuring that the character and appearance of the original structure and the wider conservation area were preserved.
A space for every moment
The property, initially intended as a single-family home instead of flats, underwent a redesign to accommodate the changing dynamics of modern family living. The ground floor saw the removal of existing walls, creating a better connection with the garden. An L-shaped extension emerged, wrapping around parts of the garden, while steps marked transitions in the open-plan layout.
The upper floors witnessed the addition of a mezzanine level and a rear dormer, creating a unique double-height space above the master bedroom. The once-unused loft space was transformed into a functional area, providing a walk-in wardrobe, dressing area and an ensuite.
Balancing the old and the new
A delicate balance was struck between preserving historical charm and introducing contemporary elements. The rear extension was designed with bricks matching the existing character, and a green roof was added to enhance biodiversity. The result was a seamless integration of the old and the new, a testament to GOAStudio’s commitment to respecting the heritage of the location.
The numbers
The internal floor area increased from around 214 to 257m2, reflecting the thoughtful expansion of habitable space. The total cost of the renovation, including design, construction and furnishings, amounted to £400K. The collaborative efforts of GOAStudio, Croft Structural Engineers, Ni Design Interiors and photographer Darren Chung brought this vision to life.
Overcoming challenges
No renovation project is without its challenges. The builder had to be replaced during the project, and delays were encountered due to staff shortages in local authorities. However, the homeowner’s father stepped in as a project manager, ensuring the successful completion of the venture.
From concept to reality
GOAStudio’s renovation and extension project in South Hampstead stands as a testament to the delicate art of preserving history while embracing the demands of contemporary living.
