Explore this modern wrap-around extension to a family home in Richmond
An open-plan wrap-around addition has given this couple a loft-style space to spend quality family time in.
Image: Liane Ryan Photography
Homeowners Amy and Nick wanted to extend their home to create an open-plan living space. We spoke to them all about their inspiration and build.
What was the brief?
To incorporate an existing lean-to utility room into a wrap-around rear and side extension, creating an open-plan kitchen/dining/living space overlooking the garden through bi-fold doors and lit from above by rooflights.
Image: Liane Ryan Photography
What was your inspiration for the new extension?
The most important thing was that it should be a relaxing, fun space for the whole family and we liked the idea of a quirky open-plan look similar to a New York loft apartment. The traditional layout of separate rooms just didn’t work for us and we wanted to bring more natural light into the ground floor.
Image: Liane Ryan Photography
How did you achieve the loft look?
We salvaged bricks from demolished walls, which were used for the interior wall in the dining area, and instead of boxing in the structural steelwork, we left it exposed and painted it black to contrast with the white walls and ceiling.
Read more: Kitchen planning guide: considering an extension
Image: Liane Ryan Photography
Why did you choose a two-tone kitchen?
Although the house was quite dated when we brought it in 2018, the previous owner had recently installed a new kitchen, which we just couldn’t justify ripping out. We saved the cabinets, but although we found the same design, we weren’t able to source the colour, so we took a risk and mixed grey and white units together. It’s something everyone comments on and we’ve continued the colour scheme throughout the space.
Image: Liane Ryan Photography
Project costs
- Building work – £87,500
- Doors, windows & skylights – £18,000
- Grey kitchen cabinets & worktop – £4,800
- Laminate flooring – £1,400
- Wall tiles – £300
- Fridge-freezer – £1,100
- Lighting – £200
- Furniture & decoration – £14,700
Total – £128,000