Loophouse 2

Applying the principles of a looping plan, this project optimises open plan living to transform a cellular Victorian terraced house into a fluid armature of space and light. The house lies within a conservation area in the leafy London milieu of Fulham and was one of the first projects in the area to gain planning permission for a basement conversion.

An ingeniously engineered structural frosted glass floor brings light into the basement, forming a visually intriguing ‘door mat’. Those in the basement can also get a dramatic sense of people coming and going.

The traditional Victorian ‘front to back’ plan is opened up to create a new living space characterised by clean lines and minimal intervention. A beautifully crafted bespoke storage wall runs the length of the house, providing a hidden repository for the necessities (and frivolities) of daily life. Details such as shutters that open up to reveal a fireplace and an elegantly-lit alcove bar area enhance the domestic dynamic.

The living space flows through into a kitchen with a central island unit as a focal point for socialising and entertaining. Generous glazed sliding doors overlook the garden, bringing light into the deep plan. When open, inside and outside become a seamless realm, emphasised by the extension of grey Terra Mosa tiles into the garden, creating a fantastic space for parties and family life. A separate ‘back of house’ kitchen adds functional capability for entertaining.

The master bedroom mirrors the concept of the boutique hotel, with crisp, simple lines cultivating a luxurious, contemporary feel. A separate floor was given over to the live-in au pair to ensure a sense of privacy. A wine cellar and home offices with bespoke furniture were also incorporated. Combining logic and luxury, the project reconceptualises the historic Victorian home, a familiar staple of London’s housing market, for the changing needs of a modern family. [By Catherine Slessor*]

Contract value £ 350k
Location Hammersmith & Fulham, London
Private Client
Date 2009
Surface 245m2
Design team Paul McAneary Architects
Design service From design concept to detailed design, interior design, lighting design, glazing design, furniture design, inspection, building control, 3D visualization
Main contractor Roxburgh Construction
Subcontractor/Supplier Simon Heslop www.directstone.co.uk
Press 2013 Laura Snaod, “Clear vision”, Grand Designs, November