Malone + Pike Architects

Rodenhurst Road

Clapham, SW4

The rear of the house at dusk, with the double-height glazed extension lit from within and the garden in the foreground

Location

Clapham, South West London (SW4)

Project

Rodenhurst Road, SW4

Status

Completed

Type

Contemporary glass-box rear extension and loft conversion to a detached Victorian house

Services

Architecture, spatial planning and internal co-ordination

This residential renovation project in SW4 was the second house we designed on this street, and reimagines a traditional London detached house through a carefully considered rear extension and mansard roof and loft conversion. The design responds to the proportion of the existing building, whilst elevating its space and character through distinct contemporary interventions.

A key feature of this project was the double-height glass box extension to the rear which, replacing a brick wall and side shed, added a dramatic sense of volume to the ground floor living space. The extensive glazing brings natural light deep into the ground floor, whilst also establishing a strong visual relationship with the garden.

The warmth and texture of the existing exposed brickwork are retained and celebrated, providing a robust backdrop to the more refined glass and metal elements of the extension.

Dining area with the retained exposed brickwork of the original wall meeting the new glazed extension
Existing brickwork against the new extension
The rear elevation by day, with the glazed doors fully open onto the garden

Internally, the exposed brick is paired with bespoke joinery, warm timber finishes and carefully positioned lighting, creating a contemporary interior that remains grounded in the character of the original house.

The reconfigured layout improves circulation and functionality, while the increased volume, generous glazing and connection to the garden transform the way the home is experienced.

Reading area with built-in shelving, bespoke timber joinery and a pendant light
Bespoke joinery and considered lighting

The result is a thoughtful balance between heritage and contemporary design, where the intervention enhances rather than competes with the existing architecture. The project demonstrates how a sensitive rear intervention can unlock the potential of a traditional London property while creating a modern and highly liveable family environment.

Photography — Andrew Beasley