This North London Victorian Terrace is reconfigured and extended to provides light and versatile spaces for our client who works from home and loves to entertain family and friends. The Victorian features and character of the original ‘front room’ are retained. In contrast the split level central and rear areas are generous and modern. The internal space is clear of structure which has been relocated to the perimeter and integrated seamlessly into the existing building fabric. Excavation to the rear maximises ceiling heights and locates kitchen and dining areas at garden patio level. The split level interior is open in feel but provides a variety of spaces conducive to informal socialising. The rear can be generously opened up to the garden and includes a window seat that’s accessed from both inside and outside. To the exterior a charred large timber element is inserted within the recycled brickwork cladding. Visually this forms an outer protective shell for the pale internal oak joinery elements. The combined black finish of the timber and external paving provides a backdrop to set off the colour of the green foliage and seasonal flower planting which will be developed over time. There is a dedicated pet sleeping area integrated under the window seat from which Teddy the dog can directly access the garden via his own dog flap.