The client had bought the right hand side of a centre-of-terrace pair of houses. The brief was to restore it in the original style, adding light and extra space; although the houses look substantial from outside, bathrooms and kitchens were not a priority when it was built in the 19th century. The neighbours in the adjoining house got on board too, and had their facade and windows done at the same time, which has made all the difference to the overall appearance of the pair.

The entrance floor in this type of house has two large reception rooms, which can often be under-utilisedbecause they feel unwelcoming. Here, every room was made to feel that you could throw yourself down and put your feet up. The warm, low level lighting creates a restful

When we had got the basics right - insulation, windows, services- it was time to play with subtle improvements in keeping with the character of the house. Here, the poky bathroom on the top floor return had its roof raised to take an original stairwell window, and a barrel vaulted ceiling echoes the new curved details to the stairwell. This little study area is open to the stairs, and can be seen from the main entrance, letting in light, and making an attractive place to work, away from yet connected to the rest of the house. The client’s vision for the house and willingness to engage the best craftsmen has resulted in a beautiful home that is rich in detail, but always welcoming.