Beckenham Rear Extension & Full House Refurbishment

This modest yet impactful rear extension breathes new life into a This house project in Beckenham was a wonderful opportunity to transform a tired, outdated property into a cohesive and contemporary family home.

The double-story side extension and rear extension are designed to balance function with form, and their geometry subtly responds to the constraints of the site. The rear extension, clad in zinc and timber cladding, is angled to frame the most private, leafy views and avoid sightlines into neighbouring properties. The exposed timber beams, which seamlessly extend from the interior to the exterior, ground the architecture in natural materials and provide a strong visual rhythm that guides the eye from inside the home to the garden.

Internally, the layout has been completely reimagined to create a flow that draws you through the space. From the moment you step inside, your view is directed through the house to the expansive glazing at the rear, connecting the interior to the Beckenham landscape beyond. The open-plan kitchen, dining, and play area at the rear of the house is designed as the social heart of the home—an inviting, light-filled space where the family can gather and interact.
The colour palette and material choices were made to evoke a sense of calm and joy. Greens run consistently through the house, from the soft, fresh tones of the kitchen cabinetry to the deeper hues in the bathrooms, which are paired with blush pink tiles for a playful yet refined look. These colours are complemented by natural finishes like timber and plaster, creating a tactile, welcoming environment.

One of the most transformative interventions is the introduction of the large roof light above the stairwell. This single move fundamentally changes the experience of the home, creating a striking double-height space flooded with natural light. It brings a sense of vertical connection and openness to what was previously a dark and constricted area.

Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the project. We incorporated triple-glazed Velfac windows for their exceptional thermal performance and installed an air source heat pump to future-proof the property. The entire home was re-insulated, and underfloor heating was added to maximize comfort and efficiency. These measures not only improve the home’s energy performance but also make it a more comfortable and inviting space to live in.
This Beckenham house project is a testament to the transformative power of considered design—turning an outdated house into a modern family home that prioritizes light, connection, and warmth while meeting the practical needs of contemporary living.