This project involves a sensitive repair and reconfiguration of a Victorian terraced house on Beck Road in Hackney, transforming it into a live/work home for an artist. Our approach to the project addressed a multitude of long-term structural defects in the building, aiming to amplify its existing qualities without resorting to major remodelling or extension. This involved the introduction of a series of new structural elements that shape the character of the interior spaces, simple adjustments to the plan that retain the existing functional arrangement, and stripping back of elements to reveal the building’s peculiarities more clearly. From the front the house appears unchanged, internally we prioritised preserving natural light and the inherent qualities of the house, whilst increasing the thermal performance of the building. To do this, we used a reduced palette of natural materials including cork thermal render, woodfibre insulation, and lime plaster. The interior was then completely lime washed. The new structure is rough sawn green douglas fir, timber linings and joinery are made in pine and existing elements such as floorboards and door panels were reused. This approach demonstrates a pragmatic and sensitive attitude to working with this type of building, carefully restoring and repairing it as-found to make another stage in its development.

September 2023 – 2025
Location: Hackney, London
For: Private Client
Size:102m2
Project Status: Ongoing