There is a Victorian terrace near Parsons Green in South West London where any of the large houses would suit for growing, young families. This one, in particular, has a ground floor that was greater than the others so space was not a problem. However, some adjustment to the layout and a side infill to connect the front room to the kitchen was required. Natural light was also a problem.
The brief was to let the natural light come into the ground floor, re-decorate throughout, re-configure and update the kitchen and turn the cramped loft into another en suite bedroom.
The kitchen is bright and spacious, more of a family room with a kitchen rather than the other way around. It is a complete makeover with skylight and clean-edged white units sitting on a honey coloured wood floor. Discreet cupboards, well-planned drawers and culinary accessories that bring a venerable old family house into the grasp of the 21st century.
The original Victorian features like ceiling roses and cornices in the entrance hall and front rooms were retained and emphasised in white against the rich, warm colours of the walls; a peaceful sanctuary for the parents to retire. By contrast, the attic bedroom is a feast of colour with a Juliet balcony and two skylights; a very personal space for a young boy and the envy of his friends.
All the rooms were refurbished, modernised and redecorated, each bedroom with its own en suite. Now Parson’s Green has the happiest of Happy Families!
