Renovation of a Victorian house
Richmond, London | Dyer Grimes Architect
The brief
Another enjoyable project for Galower: the renovation of a Victorian house. This is a spacious and impressive property. When we commenced work on the project it was subdivided into 4-5 flats, neglected and in a poor state of repair. The new owners wanted the property turned back into a single-family home and restored to its former period glory. They also put their own personal stamp on the property through a modern approach to interior design.
Galower was invited to carry out the extensive internal and external renovation, working alongside the design team to create the owners' dream home. We undertook much of the work in-house as well as managing other specialist contractors.
The internal build
We stripped the property back to shell and core internally. Then re-built according to the revised layout with new floors, electrical and mechanical services including plumbing and heating.
The staircase is now a major feature of the house. Custom-made, it runs top to bottom as a continuous curving sweep throughout the house. With its elegant, hardwood handrail, the staircase gives the house a luxurious and period feel.
The project involved a considerable amount of bespoke joinery and onsite carpentry throughout. For example, we turned the many alcoves and recesses into cupboards and storage, creating spacious rooms with clean lines.
We laid new Victorian-style floor tiles in the hall and bathrooms, and wooden flooring throughout the rest of the house. Underfloor heating was installed on the ground and first floors, traditional cast iron radiators elsewhere in the house.
The finish and fine detailing include distinctive bathroom fittings, wallpapers, door furniture and lighting.
Finally, the plant room. Reflecting today's high-tech functionality, it runs the house like a ship's engine room.
Basement kitchen and family area
Following the new home-owners desire for a 'ground floor' kitchen and family area, the architect re-configured the semi-basement, adding a rear extension with wide access to the garden.
This meant removing the back of the house over 3 levels. The resulting structural framework of this new family area used in excess of 25 tons of steel.
Working closely with the landscape designer, we reduced the level of the rear garden to match that of the kitchen and family room. Together with garden features such as the porcelain tiling and open fireplace, the whole ground floor area has an indoor / outdoor feel to it, blurring the boundaries between the two.
"The minute we moved in, the house became our home. We love it - particularly the family area and, of course, our impressive staircase! It really comes into its own when we have lots of family and friends making full use of every inch of space.
"We've had a very positive experience with Galower and have no hesitation in recommending them. Great work, easy to deal with and very considerate. Our well-being was clearly a priority for them, particularly when we were living in the house while the final stage of work was being carried out."
Home-owner verdict