Falkland Road / Studio 163

Architects: Studio 163
Year: 2022
Photographs: Lorenzo Zandri
Manufacturers: Havwoods, Inglish Hall, Lazenby
Lead Architects: Lea Grange
Construction: North Pole, North Pole / Andrew Pool
Glazing: Maxlight
Kitchen: Inglis Hall
Concrete: Lazenby
City: London
Country: United Kingdom

Falkland Road, a residential refurbishment and rear extension designed by Studio 163 in London’s Kentish Town Conservation Area, has reconfigured a narrow Victorian terrace to increase light, space, and functionality for a growing family. Through a full-width rear extension and complete internal renovation, the project introduces material contrasts and level shifts to define zones while maintaining a unified atmosphere. Excavation at the rear improves ceiling height, marked by a beige polished concrete datum line. The open-plan kitchen and dining space are defined by natural light, custom joinery, and framed garden views. Completed with reclaimed materials, bespoke detailing, and a restrained palette, the design enhances liveability and spatial fluidity within conservation constraints.

When Studio 163 was commissioned by a couple with a design background and two young children, the existing three-storey terrace in Kentish Town Conservation Area presented challenges. The narrow ground floor lacked daylight, ceiling height, storage, and adequate living space for a growing family. In response, the architects proposed a full-width rear extension along with a comprehensive refurbishment of the entire house to optimize natural light and create varied spatial experiences that feel both intimate and expansive. A limited, natural material palette was selected to achieve a minimal, tonal, and warm interior.

To increase head height and spatial flow, the rear extension was excavated, introducing a level change between the front living room and the kitchen-dining area. This shift in level is expressed through a material transition, marked by a beige polished concrete datum line. The concrete floor continues seamlessly from the interior living space to the external patio, also forming integrated planters to visually extend the space.

The kitchen and dining area are lit by two large roof lights, creating a bright open-plan volume with framed garden views. Varying ceiling heights define zones within the open space. Fins on one of the roof lights ensure privacy and offer dynamic shadow patterns across the extension walls. A new opening between the front and rear spaces enhances circulation, and an oak threshold—incorporating concealed storage—marks the transition between the existing structure and the new addition.

Throughout the home, bespoke joinery provides tailored storage while maintaining a sense of openness. The kitchen cabinetry, built in oak, continues the material language of the threshold, while full-height cupboards are clad in neutral tones to blend into the background.

Externally, sustainability and resourcefulness informed the choice of materials. Reclaimed bricks and timber were used for the walls and patio decking. Tall glazed doors maximize internal daylight and visually connect the interior to the garden, while their minimal frames reduce visual barriers. Bespoke coping and rainwater pipes were designed to match the window frame color. The original rear facade was re-rendered and left unpainted, allowing the natural buff tone of the render to harmonize with the surrounding London stock brickwork.