Surbiton House

Minimalist living and simplified design has been quickly raising in popularity in recent years. This may largely be associated with large spaces and top level bespoke craftsmanship, yet it has also resonated with homeowners living in a classic city environment.

The owners of this semi-detached property on the outskirts of south west London required a rear extension that would contain a kitchen, dining and living areas. Their vision was an airy and calm space with plenty of natural light.

VORBILD Architecture designed a full-width back extension with large sliding doors to open the space onto the garden. The new area features a kitchen at the back, diner in the centre, and a living space facing the garden.

To further increase the amount of natural light, two well-sized roof lights have been mounted above the living area. Inside the kitchen, tall glass panels have been installed on both sides.

The new kitchen is sleek and modern with a single wall of units and a kitchen island in the middle. The cabinets have a white, high-gloss finish and a white quartz worktop. All the appliances are integrated and storage concealed. For contrast, a dark blue paint colour has been used for the splash-back.

The cabinets have minimum of details. The flat panels have a long recess instead of handles. Moreover, an up-stand have been built above the standard sized tall and hanging units to give them a bespoke look.

The kitchen gradually turns into a dining areas thanks to a custom made bench, which has been mounted at the rear side of the kitchen island. The bench has an oiled oak finish and a dark blue base, which matches the splash-back. The seat can be opened for storage.

Small design solution help to merge the three different spaces together and create flow between one to another. One of them are the floor boards. Extra long engineered oak boards have been laid vertically to emphasise continuity and to visually prolong the space. In addition, here are no radiator but underfloor heating instead.

The extension flows gently onto the outside patio, which creates another living space, before leading into a long garden.