Description

The reimagination of the 162 square metres four-bedroom Victorian townhouse in the heart of Brackenbury Village, a conservation area in West London was driven by the visionary expertise of the husband-and-wife architect duo, their designs reflect a harmonious blend of creativity and innovation. The work was completed by London-based Sybarite Architects, and Fluid Structures Engineers and Technical Consultant and facilitated through the addition of 22 new support steels.

Originally acquired in 2009, in an unmodernised state, it was completely transformed and opened-up to accommodate a growing modern family in 2010. The overall philosophy of the design favours practicality and simplicity with the utmost attention to detail in its convivial layout and flow, integrated cabinetry and bespoke finishes of hand lacquer, liquid laminate, polished and exposed shuttered concrete and iron metalworking. The house represents a perfect juxtaposition between Victorian and contemporary detailing.

Arriving at the raised ground floor, custom-designed black stainless steel sliding doors divide the sitting room and library. Throughout this level, warm teak flooring complements the original Victorian staircase which has been sandblasted and oiled and purposefully retained as a symbolic reminder of the age of this home. On descent to the lower ground floor, towards the back of the house, there is a secluded birch plywood-clad guest room where the flip down bed enables the room to seamlessly convert into an office/study or a play space.

The lower ground floor is designed as the hub of family activity and incorporates the bright and sleek open-plan kitchen, dining room and seating area, against a meditative zen garden space. The entire expanse of the room is held in balance at either end between the three walled garden which mirrors the layout of the kitchen cabinets on the other end. Concealed beneath the kitchen and accessed by a round hatch (and hook system) set flush into the polished concrete floor is a sizeable wine cellar that accommodates up to 2000 bottles and remains at a constant temperature. The dining room is characterised by a specially commissioned 'Shuttlecock Table' that appears as if floating and defying gravity, it is mounted on a structural base under the floor. Here, discreetly tucked under the staircase is a guest bathroom.

On the second floor, a newly extended loft hideaway is accessed complete with air conditioning. The entire room was inspired by that of yacht design with a bed that slots into the sloping wall of the roof that accommodates a super king-sized bed. The rear elevation features expansive glazing, allowing abundant natural light to flood the room. A walk-in wardrobe and ensuite shower room flank the bed, utilising every available inch of space. Concealed additional storage by way of wall panels in sleek Italian lacquer are set out in geometric composition, broken only by the rough finish of a shuttered concrete fireplace.

The home is defined by its sleek architectural detailing, sharp clean lines, and thoughtful approach to storage and seamless integration.