Transforming a family town house

This stunning five-bedroom, six-storey family home in Islington is the result of a meticulous three-year collaboration between our studio and long-time clients. Having designed their previous home just around the corner, they entrusted us once again to bring their vision for to life – this time on a grander scale, and with a young family to share it with.

The property underwent a significant transformation by Chris Dyson Architects, including a basement conversion, frameless new attic windows, a full restoration and a rear extension. The result is a contemporary home with an eclectic twist, where modern interventions seamlessly enhance the building’s historic charm.

At the heart of the home, the lower ground floor offers a beautifully crafted kitchen designed in collaboration with Roundhouse, a spacious dining area, and a sophisticated yet cocooning snug. While the rear of the property is bathed in natural light from full-height glass doors and a rooflight above a striking new spiral staircase. The snug provides a moody contrast – a calm, intimate retreat for the family.

An impressive entrance and staircase lead to the ground floor, where an open-plan formal living and music room, as well as a study, are subtly divided by full-height double doors in keeping with the home’s period character. The first floor is entirely dedicated to a luxurious primary suite, complete with a walk-in wardrobe, while the upper floors accommodate a thoughtfully designed nursery and three guest bedrooms.

Bespoke joinery plays a major role in the home’s design, from a sleek drinks bar to a statement media unit that conceals the TV behind elegant sliding doors above a modern fireplace. The nursery is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring custom partitions, a bespoke bed, and hidden storage solutions that blend seamlessly into the space.

A highlight of the project is the primary bed, handmade in Portugal and transported under Climate-controlled conditions to maintain its pristine quality - an extra effort well worth the final result. Throughout the home, luxurious finishes add depth and character, including wallpapers and murals from Elitis, Arte, and Cole & Son.