Rear Extension Penge

This charming cottage in Penge was in the midst of a major build, with the ground floor bathroom and kitchen being swapped around and a rear extension added to create more space for a new kitchen-diner. While the homeowner was confident in their own design style and an efficient decision maker, managing the demands of the build became increasingly challenging whilst living amongst building dust, without a working bathroom or kitchen, and with the rear of the ground floor completely exposed.

What began as a project requiring support with design decisions developed into a collaborative process, with ideas, discussions and solutions evolving throughout the inevitable challenges that come with a large-scale renovation.

The Brief
The project centred on the reconfiguration and extension of the ground floor to create a new kitchen-diner and reposition the bathroom within the centre of the house.

As the build progressed, the homeowner required support navigating the volume of decisions needed to keep the project moving forward, whilst ensuring that the finished spaces felt cohesive, practical and welcoming.

The Design Challenge
Relocating the bathroom to the middle of the house created an immediate challenge around natural light. Maintaining a sense of openness and brightness within the circulation space was also important, particularly within the corridor linking the front living room to the new kitchen at the rear.

At the same time, the kitchen-diner needed to feel warm and inviting whilst working within the architectural changes introduced by the extension.

Our Approach
To bring natural light into the new bathroom, a window was introduced into the adjoining kitchen wall. This became a feature in its own right whilst allowing light to flow into the space.

A pocket door was specified for the bathroom to ensure the connecting corridor remained free from obstruction and retained a sense of openness.

The bathroom combines patterned Bert & May floor tiles with herringbone wall tiles, creating texture and character. A rich oak Furnewal vanity was chosen to provide essential storage, while ambient wall lighting helps reinforce the calm atmosphere of the room.

Within the kitchen, mushroom-coloured cabinetry was paired with antique brass hardware, green wall tiles and limestone flooring. This combination continues the rich material palette used throughout the project.

Pendant lights from Lights & Lamps introduce a softer and more playful element above the space, while dining chairs from Rowen & Wren create an elegant yet relaxed setting for everyday meals and entertaining.

The Result
The completed spaces balance practicality and character, with thoughtful design solutions integrated throughout the new layout.

The bathroom has become an oasis of calm at the heart of the house, whilst the extended kitchen-diner provides a welcoming setting for cooking, dining and spending time together. Through close collaboration during the build process, the project evolved into a home that feels both functional and considered, with carefully selected materials, furnishings and finishes adding warmth and personality throughout.

Services Provided
Interior Design + Kitchen-Diner Design + Bathroom Design + Material & Finish Specification + Furniture Sourcing + Lighting Specification + Space Planning +Design Consultancy During Renovation +Interior Styling