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This small terraced cottage in South West London is a gem of a project – humble and modest at a glance, with the potential to sparkle. Commissioned by a visitor to last year’s Grand Designs Live, the Architects responsible for making ‘the worst house on the street’ shine, were Grand Designs Live London based exhibitors DBLO Associates architects Fulham.

Folding glass doors replaced the exterior kitchen wall, small window and door – allowing light and life to seamlessly flow through the house from outside in and vice versa and creating a flush floor threshold with the same floor finish inside and outside. The highly insulated extension with cedum green roof incorporates western red cedar timber cladding, which frames the glass opening – maintaining the nostalgia and personality of the cottage, whilst adding new contemporary and eco credentials to the property. Given a limited budget and the fact that it had to include a first floor extension, two bathrooms and full redecoration, the design team sought to use readily available, affordable materials and products including tiles, flooring and lighting. ‘The kitchen came from IKEA and the tiles from Topps Tiles’- Claire Hale (Partner) – which kept cost low whilst cleverly detailed style remained high and resulted in this flexible and bespoke living space which will be enjoyed year round during family time and for entertaining.

DBLO architects Clapham worked closely with the client to make their Grand Design a reality – proving that budget doesn’t have to be an obstacle, that with good interpretation of your clients brief, an innovative approach and imagination – you can achieve a grand solution that suits you. The total cost for this project excluding VAT came in at £145,000.

DBLO Associates Architects will be exhibiting at the show in May. Find them in Grand Build stand B21