Shepherds Hill 2

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A synthesis of Edwardian and Persian inspired design interventions; in this refurbishment and extension of a large Edwardian house in Highgate, IBLA reworked a building with a confused layout into a spatially rich home for a young family in north London.

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Originally consisting of three separate but non self-contained flats, the house was reconfigured as a large family dwelling occupying the lower floors and a separate flat on the top floor. The works to the lower floors included the construction of a new rear extension and the opening up of the existing lower ground floor to form a new interconnected living, dining and kitchen area. The new rear extension was built in red brick to match the existing house and features a large diamond-shaped structurally-glazed roof lantern. The existing access was adapted to form a large airy top-lit staircase serving the main house and a separate stair to the top floor flat.  A new 'light shaft' was driven through the top floor to allow natural light into the lower staircase.

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The new rear extension unites the previously separate living, kitchen and dining areas into large and open, yet clearly-defined spaces. The diamond-shaped lantern - inspired by traditional cupolas - crowns the dining space, giving a sense of height and grandeur, and bringing light deep into the plan. Three glazed sliding patio doors punctuate the rooms, and allow the family to flow out onto two connected terraces, conceived of as exterior rooms.  Vaults are carved out over the new minimal white kitchen which, along with the living space, offers illuminated oak shelves to display the client’s collection of Persian ornaments and artefacts.

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Throughout the rest of the house, a series of bold new bathrooms and a luxurious master bedroom suite - with a generous dressing area and ensuite - sit alongside redecorated rooms with period features, to create a calm and beautiful combination of new and old.