"Thicker Heart"

This raised ground-floor apartment in a North London conservation area has been thoughtfully reconfigured to suit modern tastes. The former kitchen is now a bedroom opening onto the garden, while the previous bathroom has been transformed into a bright kitchen with new glazing and mirrors, drawing light into the redesigned hallway. Compact yet functional, new cloakrooms are tucked within the core and under the stairs, with concealed storage above the hallway for bulky items. The refurbishment upgrades existing brickwork, lighting, and plumbing while retaining original windows, showcasing the retrofitting potential of historic buildings.Traditional finishes are complemented by locally sourced Douglas Fir, replacing the initially intended Larch, with a grain-raised, lightly bleached finish for a raw, pinkish look on louvres and flooring. Opaque fire-rated glass and a large sliding fire door enhance spatial flow. Custom joinery and storage solutions optimize flexibility and elegance within a relatively economical approach. The project, completed while the building remained occupied and spanning lockdown, demonstrates persistence in achieving well-crafted, enduring spaces.