British Grove

Project Overview

Created open-plan living space in the heart of Chiswick.

Britannia were asked to rework and extend the ground floor of the house, built in the mid-90’s, which featured an awkward kitchen/living/dining space which felt disconnected and distinct from the garden.

New structure was inserted as high within the floor above as possible, to allow the rear elevation to be opened up completely at ground level, as well as removal of an internal section of wall dividing the dining and living spaces. An area of lowered ceiling was introduced over the living area to define the living area and conceal the new structure. Cutaways animate the ceiling and provide recesses for a blind to the glazing and an LED strip to wash light behind the television.

Project Specifications

Structural Elements
  • Removal of internal walls to replace it with an open-plan living plan. Using structural steel.
  • Installing steel into ceiling space to provide a seamless ceiling to expose a feature column (pictured in yellow).
Sustainable Features
  • Insulated glass
  • Low-e double glazed windows
  • New floor
  • "Don't move, improve" approach
  • Hardwood floor throughout
  • Repurposed the kitchen - saved cabinets with new hi gloss doors
Materials
  • Hi gloss cabinetry
  • Crittal windows
  • Hardwood flooring throughout

Design Approach

The design approach focused on maintaining the original character of the home while creating a bright, spacious, functional modern space integrated with the garden and natural light.

New glazed elements maximise light penetration, open-plan living areas create flow and coherence, and carefully positioned structural supports maintain openness while adding interest and functionality.

The opened-up rear elevation features Crittall windows and a glazed roof, drawing natural light deep into the home throughout the day. The sense of openness and vertical height is enhanced by the glazed roof, while double doors open seamlessly onto the patio for summer living.

This project demonstrates how thoughtful design can improve quality of life, deliver functional solutions even on constrained sites, and create beautiful, enduring spaces within modest budgets.

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