Sold for £2,260,000 in June 2024, this three-storey Victorian house on Montrose Avenue in Queen’s Park stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design. Completed in 2013 by Takero Shimazaki Architects, the property underwent a remarkable extension that reimagined its connection to the garden, creating a seamless and functional living space with a unique character.

The original layout presented a common challenge: the kitchen was disconnected from the garden, with three small windows offering minimal views and light. Alongside this, a narrow strip of unused outdoor space along the side boundary was left idle. Shimazaki’s design resolved these issues by combining three small spaces into one expansive open-plan kitchen and dining area. The result is a layout that harmonises family activities with the outdoor garden while maintaining the charm of the original structure.

The newly extended side space connects the family kitchen and dining areas to the garden, allowing light to flood into the heart of the home. Newly composed openings enhance the visual and functional relationship between the interior and the lush outdoor space. Although initial planning constraints influenced the design, the collaboration with the client played a pivotal role in shaping a space that feels both bespoke and inviting.

The client envisioned a space with character, using natural light and materials to enrich the home. This vision was achieved through a simple yet effective palette of timber, steel, and glass, seamlessly integrated with the existing brickwork. To connect the living room to the kitchen and dining areas, a lightweight timber-framed lantern was introduced, offering a sense of continuity and cohesion throughout the space.

Structural efficiency was a cornerstone of the project. By employing a restrained structural approach, the design achieved the largest possible openings to the garden without incurring unnecessary expenses or complex negotiations. The timber-framed windows and doors were meticulously designed with specific functions, including an everyday door, a summer door, a ventilating window, and even a dog flap. This thoughtful composition creates a dynamic interaction between the interior and the landscaping, changing with the seasons and the family’s needs.

The kitchen itself retains the width and openness of the newly created space, with a counter-level island that acts as a focal point for both cooking and socialising. The restrained material palette and thoughtful structural design not only reflect the home’s Victorian roots but also bring a contemporary warmth and elegance to the space.

Located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Queen’s Park, this property is surrounded by leafy streets, boutique shops, and excellent schools. Its transformation highlights how an ordinary Victorian home can become an extraordinary living space through the careful balance of practicality, aesthetics, and architectural ingenuity.

This Montrose Avenue home, sold for £2,260,000, represents a perfect blend of historical charm and modern functionality. Takero Shimazaki’s sensitive and innovative design ensures that the property remains timeless, meeting the needs of its owners while enhancing its connection to the surrounding environment.