Reimagining a Highgate loft through the power of joinery

Highgate, London
Photography by Ben Sage
Modern indoor staircase with wooden steps, white walls, and magenta railing planters holding green plants.
Cozy workspace built under a sloped ceiling with wooden desk, beige stool, record player, lamp, potted plant, and shelving.

Project Vision

A striking new loft renovation in the heart of Highgate exemplifies how intelligent design and meticulous craftsmanship can unlock the full potential of an interior. This project truly demonstrates how the strategic use of joinery can completely reimagine space, scale, and functionality - turning constraints into character and square metres into sanctuaries that evolve.

Originally a three-bedroom, one-bathroom loft with a double-height void, the home underwent a significant transformation in collaboration with KKS Building whose construction work delivered the precision and high end finishes the project required. Together, we reconfigured the space into two elegant bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, along with a standout mezzanine level - a serene reading and relaxation nook complete with bespoke planters by the team at Biophilic Designs

Project Delivery

At the heart of this transformation lies an extensive joinery package built by Touch Joinery, seamlessly integrated into the architecture. Every angle, slope, and previously awkward eave has been put to work, housing hidden storage, expansive wardrobes, tailored desks, and even a dramatic library wall that rises into what was once unused roof space - complete with a bespoke ladder for access.

The two new ensuite bathrooms are a masterclass in form and flow, featuring curved walls that soften and elevate the geometry of the spaces. The bathrooms boast freestanding tubs, bespoke vanity units, and intricate tile layouts sourced from Parkside, Solus, Otto Tiles and Grestec. Fixtures from CP Hart and West One Bathrooms complete the polished, tactile palette.

Cozy bedroom corner with a bed featuring fluffy brown pillows, a hanging plant, a round illuminated pendant light, and an arch-shaped mirror reflecting a shower door.
Minimalist bathroom vanity with a round white vessel sink, wall-mounted black faucet, and triangular mirror above it, flanked by wooden shelves.
Modern minimalist bathroom with a curved glass shower door, wall-mounted toilet, beige tiles, and a green potted plant.
Cozy bedroom corner with a beige sofa bed topped with blue furry pillows, a hanging wicker chair with a fluffy cushion, and shelves with books and plants under a slanted ceiling.

Project Delivery

The two bedrooms were designed for teenage sisters, each space carefully curated to reflect their personalities and current tastes while also being adaptable for the future. From calm and cozy reading corners to practical study zones and cleverly integrated storage, the rooms strike a balance between individuality and longevity.

We loved collaborating with this client to bring her daughters’ ideas and visions into the design - ensuring the girls felt ownership over their spaces while also creating a scheme that will grow with them.

Beautiful bespoke joinery in a loft space

Project Delivery

In the first bedroom, a tactile and tranquil scheme is enhanced by carefully sourced pieces including a Roche Bobois armchair, Loaf bed and footstool, Ferm Living table lamps, Vibia lighting, a Heals pendant, Arte wallpaper, and a Linie Design rug. Bespoke curtains by Klara Stanbridge add another layer of softness and warmth.

The second bedroom is vibrant yet grounded, with a bespoke Pierre Frey headboard that creates the feel of a laid-back sofa and forms a private nook behind. Key details include a Natures Collection rug, Eva Sonaike pouffe, and Muuto pendant, all adding to the relaxed sophistication of the space.

Cozy bedroom corner with beige textured wall, hanging spherical light, trailing green plant, fluffy brown pillow on bed, and an arched built-in vanity with wooden shelf and illuminated mirror.
Cozy bedroom corner with built-in beige shelves holding books, a guitar, plants, and decorative items, featuring a blue patterned stool and wooden ladder.
Cozy bedroom with angled ceiling, built-in white shelves filled with books, a wooden acoustic guitar mounted on the wall, a bed with teal bedding and white pillow, a small nightstand, a wooden ladder, and a round beige rug on wooden floor.
Beautiful bespoke joinery in a loft space
Cozy attic bedroom with a teal blanket, two blue fuzzy pillows, a hanging wicker chair with pink cushions, built-in white shelves filled with books, a guitar, and a wooden ladder.
Modern cozy room with built-in beige shelving filled with books, plants, a guitar, a wooden ladder, and a blue patterned ottoman.
Modern spiral staircase with red metal steps and railing inside a white-walled room with wooden floor.
Bright indoor space with wooden floor, two large magenta planters with green plants, a magenta railing, and scattered puzzle pieces on the floor.
Minimalist bathroom vanity with a round white vessel sink, wall-mounted black faucet, and triangular mirror above it, flanked by wooden shelves.
Quotation icon
This Highgate loft stands as a testament to how custom joinery and thoughtful, collaborative design can transform architecture. These spaces now work in a completely different way, giving the upper floor of this home longevity and purpose. The before and after photos are some of my favourites!
Nabil Rubeiz
Creative Director