Chic and Sensible Makeover of Lovely Brick Cottage from the 1800s in London

Restoring a home that is over 200 years old is a tough task at the best of times. It is a job that demands great care, understating of local design style, history and heritage, along with a mastery of innovative design solutions. Battersea Church Road is a project that demanded all of these qualities, as this brown brick cottage from the 1800s was in need of an elegant and urgent modern makeover. It is the creative folks from extrArchitecture who accomplished this, as they completely transformed the classic London home on the inside, even while keeping the street façade largely intact.

Modern wooden deck with a relaxing hangout

Cozy-reading-nook-inside-the-revamped-London-home-217x155

Kids-bedroom-with-chalkboard-wall-and-innovative-bed-design-217x155

Classic-design-elements-combined-with-modern-aesthetics-inside-the-London-home-217x155

Modern-interior-in-white-with-antique-furniture-217x155

Modern-home-office-design-connected-with-the-private-deck-outside-217x155

Proximity to River Thames meant that digging for a new basement was a structural challenge in itself, but add to it the need to blend a traditional silhouette with a contemporary interior, delightful antiques and plush décor, and you have a home makeover that is unique in every sense of the word. A neutral color palette coupled with French honey-colored limestone shapes the new, light-filled living area, kitchen and dining space. It is additions like the Tom Dixon pendants in black along with the ornate gold-framed mirrors and glittering accessories that give the London residence a fresh yet timeless aura.

Glass windows and improvised ceiling design give the interior an airy appeal

Sliding glass doors connect the living room with the rear yard

Tom Dixon pendant lights in black for the dining room

Small sitting area with a pop of color and a neutral backdrop

Home study with large bookshelf and a workdesk

Contemporary kitchen in white with a smart island

French honey-color limestone brings warmth to the neutral interior

Cleverly concealed cabinets and shelves give the kitchen a clean, modern look

Limestone backdrop for the dining room in white with dark pendants

A box-like rear extension is connected to the garden and deck outside using large, sliding glass doors, even as the private spaces sit cozily on the top level. Nifty storage units, hidden cabinets and efficient wardrobes in the bedrooms complete an alteration that is both pleasing and practical. [Photography: Barbara Corsico]