St George's House
Simple geometry and the dramatic scale redefine this home for a family in Islington.
The transformation of this Victorian home has created a versatile and inviting space tailored to meet the changing needs of their family. With grown children and a focus on family gatherings, our clients wanted a home that celebrated socialising, daily life, and comfort.
The heart of the renovation is the expansive, open-plan living and kitchen area. Designed with social gatherings in mind, the space seamlessly merges the kitchen, dining area, casual seating, and a terrace that connects to the garden. This fluid layout allows for easy interaction across zones, making it perfect for entertaining as well as daily use. The kitchen and dining areas, framed by a lower ceiling height for intimacy, encourage a relaxed atmosphere, while the 3.4-meter ceiling in the main reception room introduces a sense of openness.
Mindful of the north-facing aspect of the main room, a calming colour palette was chosen to maximise natural light. Large windows allow soft, diffuse light to fill the space, even on overcast days.
One stand-outing element is the organic-shaped sofa that has quickly become a family favourite. This unconventional seating arrangement allows people to face different directions-towards the garden, the TV, or the kitchen-making it a versatile hub for family conversations, quiet evenings, and large gatherings. This flexibility, combined with non-directional seating, encourages easy movement and interaction, enhancing the home’s sociable atmosphere.
To soften the industrial lines of the concrete extension, a green roof was introduced that overflows with grasses and flowers, adding a vibrant, natural element.
Working within the constraints of a conservation area, the design respectfully blends modern architectural elements with the historical character of the Victorian home. Through careful planning and consultation, approval was achieved for distinctive features, including the impressive ceiling height in the main reception area, allowing the project to both preserve and enhance the area’s architectural heritage.