Herne Hill Rear Extension

This rear extension and loft conversion transformed one of the last untouched Edwardian terraces on the street into a warm, light-filled family home in Herne Hill.

Rather than following the familiar formula of a minimalist extension, the design was shaped around the family’s love of cooking, gathering and spending time together.

Having recently moved into the house, the family saw its potential but found the existing layout cold and disconnected. The kitchen was small, family life felt fragmented and the enclosed garden limited natural light to the rear of the property. They wanted a home that felt sociable, welcoming and deeply connected to everyday routines.

Our design centred on creating a generous kitchen, dining and family space organised around a dramatic three-metre-high window. Positioned behind the kitchen sink and framing views of a mature tree beyond, the window draws natural light deep into the plan and creates a focal point that transforms a simple daily task into a moment of connection with the garden.

A large dining table forms the social heart of the home, while a bespoke half-height tiled wall allows cooking to remain part of family life without exposing every pan and plate. Clay-plastered walls, oak joinery, timber windows and natural materials create a rich palette of colour and texture, giving the space warmth and character.

A loft refurbishment added a new en-suite bedroom, while carefully integrated utility and WC spaces improve the functionality of the ground floor.

The result is a Herne Hill family home that feels calm, comfortable and full of character — a place designed around conversation, cooking and the small rituals of everyday life.