Light and Life

E Ave, Inglewood

A young couple approached us to help reimagine their existing space, which was dominated by a 90's rear extension. This extension resulted in the kitchen being isolated, causing it to feel dark and detached. Additionally, an underutilised attic space stemming from the same extension led to a squat, dark living area.

Briefing Stage

The clients entered the project with a strong sense of what they wanted, a characteristic that can often make things clearer from the start. We began the process by condensing their ideas into a 'spatial brief', effectively turning their wishes into a visual concept that could be tested against the existing floor plan. Although the clients were steadfast in their initial ideas, we took it upon ourselves to suggest a few alternatives just to broaden the design discussion. To facilitate a mutual understanding of design language, we created a shared Pinterest board, a tool that allowed us to exchange design inspirations in real-time.

Design and Planning

Even though the clients had a fixed idea in mind, we believed it was essential to explore other possibilities. However, after various discussions and evaluations, the initial idea proved to be the best solution for this project. The design involved swapping the existing kitchen and living room spaces and doing away with the room that divided the two, effectively creating an open and light-filled space. We also removed the unused attic, which allowed a more generous amount of light to flood the kitchen and dining area. The kitchen received a contemporary touch up, and smaller scope elements like the bathroom and laundry got minor updates.

Refining through Iterations

Throughout the process, we kept circling back to the drawing board, discussing, refining, and optimising. The initial design was on point, but as we delved deeper into the project, we realised that small changes could improve it further. From adjusting the kitchen layout to deciding on floor finishes, each iteration brought us closer to the perfect design for our clients.

Using Tools for Visualisation

The use of 3D modelling and physical models was crucial in this project. These tools not only provided us with a realistic view of the proposed design but also helped our clients visualise the proposed spaces better. By comparing different material finishes and understanding the scale of the space, our clients could be more engaged and confident about the decisions being made.

End Result

The project is soon to start the construction phase, but the clients are thrilled with the design. The reimagined space perfectly aligns with their initial vision - an open, connected, and light-filled home. The dark, separated areas have given way to an airy and welcoming living space that echoes with the lively energy of the family. We're eagerly looking forward to seeing the final physical transformation of their home.