In 2020, Bourne Architects completed a project to remodel a home on Fernhurst Road by adding a rear extension and refurbishing the basement. The design brief called for a 100sqm multipurpose space that could serve as a guest bedroom, cinema room, lounge, storage area, and indoor gym. The clients wanted an area where they could escape without leaving their home, which was especially important during the pandemic. Lighting was a major challenge in creating an inviting basement space, but the architects solved this by adding a large skylight that opened up sightlines from the front to the back of the house and allowed natural light to pour in. The basement floor was also lowered to provide more headroom for the cinema and gym, which improved the connection to the kitchen and dining spaces above. The Covid-19 pandemic reinforced the importance of creating a sanctuary at home for cooking, entertaining, watching movies, and exercising. Overall, the project was a success and provided the clients with a functional and flexible space that met their needs and provided a much-needed escape during challenging times.