Sketch Architects have refurbished a family home in South West London, transforming it into a brighter, more connected place to live. The project centers on a spacious rear extension filled with natural light, paired with a basement that feels inviting rather than hidden away. Together, the changes reshape how the home works for a growing family, turning once disconnected rooms into a flowing sequence of spaces.
From the moment you step inside, the sense of change is clear. In the entryway, a tall pocket door slides open to reveal the new extension beyond. A series of separate rooms now feels open and generous, with long sight lines that draw you straight through the house towards the garden.
The extension itself is open plan and has a dark blue kitchen that anchors the space, giving it depth and contrast, while a pastel yellow sofa sits casually against an exposed brick wall, softening the look and adding warmth. Nearby, the dining area enjoys uninterrupted views of the backyard through black-framed windows and doors, blurring the line between inside and out. Overhead, a skylight running the full length of the extension floods the room with daylight, ensuring the space feels bright from morning through to evening.
Looking back towards the front of the house, glass safety rails edge the stair opening, allowing light to travel freely between levels. Through this opening, a window offers a glimpse of the front reception room in the original part of the house, maintaining a visual connection between old and new. It is a subtle move, but one that reinforces the sense that the home now works as a whole rather than a collection of parts.
Wooden stairs lead down from the extension into the basement, and from this viewpoint the structure of the renovation becomes visible. Large metal beams cut clean lines against white walls and ceilings, introducing an industrial note that contrasts with the softer finishes above.
Downstairs, the basement reveals its playful side. A brightly colored wall injects energy into the room, shifting it away from the typical idea of a dark, secondary space. Instead, it feels lively and usable, a place designed for family life rather than storage alone. Practicality is woven in throughout, with additional storage neatly hidden beneath the stairs, making the most of every available inch without cluttering the room.
Together, the extension and basement show how thoughtful design can completely change the experience of a home. By prioritizing light, connection and flexibility, Sketch Architects have created a townhouse that feels open, welcoming and full of personality.
Photography by Adam Scott | Design: Sketch Architects | Contractor: Summit Group Building Contractors | Structural Engineer: Packman Lucas
