Victorian Townhouse Refurbishment, Little Venice
This comprehensive refurbishment of a grand six-bedroom Victorian townhouse in Little Venice focused on enhancing thermal performance while preserving its rich architectural character. We upgraded the building fabric to meet modern energy standards and reinstated original features to celebrate its heritage. Thoughtfully designed bespoke joinery was introduced, maximising space and bringing refined contemporary comfort to this elegant period home.
This Victorian townhouse in Little Venice had been left largely untouched for decades. It had been subdivided into multiple units, and the building's fabric and services were significantly outdated. Although some original features had survived, the property no longer functioned well as a family home. The new owners wanted to convert it back into a single-family residence that could comfortably accommodate a large family and a live-in nanny. Their goal was to create a home that felt contemporary and spacious yet remained respectful to the historical character of the building. Energy efficiency and comfort were also key priorities.
Our design approach focused on unlocking the potential of the lower ground floor, where we created a self-contained nanny suite under the vaulted ceilings. A new glass extension at the rear introduced a generous kitchen and dining space, opening directly onto the garden and becoming the heart of the home. While the upper-level layout remained largely unaltered, we made subtle adjustments to improve circulation and functionality.
We enhanced the building's energy performance by introducing breathable internal insulation and installing discreet secondary glazing. This preserved the integrity and breathability of the existing fabric while improving thermal comfort. All materials were carefully selected for sustainability, including natural timber flooring, responsibly sourced stone, and durable porcelain tiles in high-use areas. The interior palette was kept minimal and refined, allowing light, space, and historical detailing to define the atmosphere of each room.
The completed home offers a harmonious blend of old and new: a calm, modern interior that respects and highlights the original architectural features. Large windows and carefully placed openings ensure the home is filled with natural light, creating a sense of openness and tranquillity. The lower ground floor has been transformed into a highly functional and inviting space, while the upper levels retain their period charm. The building is now significantly more comfortable and energy-efficient, meeting the needs of a contemporary family without sacrificing its historic character. This retrofit exemplifies our commitment to sustainable, sensitive design that enhances performance and beauty.
