The House in Forest Hill, London
An elegant 1930s family home with a modern twist
Project Type:
A residential refurbishment
Project Status:
Complete
Photography:
© Penny Wincer
This wide 1930s detached house is set on top of a hill in South London overlooking a nature trail. The back of the house has been opened up by knocking through from the existing kitchen to provide an open plan dining and kitchen space. The window openings have been dropped to the ground to create three sets of doors out onto the garden decking. It was really important for the client to have a close connection with the garden and view of the nature trail beyond.
The kitchen underwent a cost-effective revamp that involved refreshing the work surfaces, door fronts and handles and installing a new splash back and a feature shelf. The mini breakfast bar on the kitchen island has transformed the kitchen – having an extra place to perch can give a nice dynamic to a space.
Kitchen joinery details
Garden details
The sitting room has a different character to the rest of the house – it’s a cosier space, tying together furniture of different periods and character to create a homely space that still feels elegant.
The neutral palette of the kitchen is used throughout the house to give it a bright and spacious feel. The small hallway is opened up by painting the elegant balustrade almost black, to highlight the clean lines and add interest and contrast to make the space feel more generous.
The family bathroom is characterised by ply joinery, black brass-wear and micro-cement walls. A large bath sits under the window from where there are views of the treetops beyond. A bathroom that is both practical for a family, as well as a sanctuary, is really important for sanity!
