THE PROJECT

This Streatham studio flat extension project demonstrates how a compact London property can be transformed into a modern and highly functional home. Located between Streatham and Tooting Bec, the original studio flat measured just 33m² and suffered from an inefficient layout, poor natural light and limited kitchen facilities.

Through a carefully considered architectural design, the flat was extended and completely reconfigured to create a 70m² contemporary living space with improved natural light, better spatial flow and a strong connection to a private courtyard.

The project illustrates how thoughtful architectural planning can unlock the potential of small urban homes.

The Original Studio Flat

Before the renovation, the studio flat presented several challenges common to compact London properties.

The layout was inefficient, with the double bed positioned awkwardly within the main living space. The kitchen was cramped, poorly lit and lacked essential appliances, while the overall layout failed to make effective use of the available floor area.

These limitations made the flat feel smaller than its actual size and reduced its functionality for modern living.

Rear Extension and New Layout

A rear extension was introduced to increase the total floor area from 33m² to 70m², effectively doubling the size of the home.

This extension allowed the internal spaces to be reorganised across two levels.

Lower Ground Floor

The lower ground floor now contains two bedrooms, including a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. Both rooms benefit from direct access to a private courtyard, creating an indoor-outdoor relationship that enhances the sense of space and provides natural light to the lower level.

Upper Ground Floor

The upper ground floor accommodates a bright open-plan kitchen, living and dining area. This space acts as the central hub of the home and benefits from large windows and a bi-fold opening that connects visually with the courtyard below.

The open layout ensures the living area feels significantly larger than the footprint might suggest.

Architectural Features

A key architectural moment occurs at the entrance to the property, where a double-height space was introduced to create a sense of drama and openness.

This vertical volume allows natural light to penetrate deep into the home while visually connecting the two levels of the property.

Despite the compact footprint of the building, this feature helps the interior feel spacious and contemporary.

Materials and Exterior Design

The extension was carefully designed to complement the surrounding architecture while introducing a contemporary character.

London stock brick was selected to integrate the new structure with neighbouring properties, maintaining continuity with the existing streetscape.

Modern detailing was introduced through the use of black aluminium windows, which provide strong visual contrast and enhance the contemporary appearance of the extension.

A green roof was also incorporated to improve environmental performance and integrate the building with the surrounding landscape.

Maximising Natural Light

Increasing natural light was a central goal of the project.

Several architectural features were introduced to achieve this:

• Large windows overlooking the courtyard
• Rooflights positioned above the kitchen and living areas
• A double-height entrance space that distributes daylight through the interior
• A bi-fold window opening that connects the living space to the outdoors

These interventions significantly improve the brightness and comfort of the interior.

Custom Storage and Compact Living

Efficient storage was essential to ensure the flat functioned effectively as a modern home.

Bespoke furniture and integrated storage solutions were designed specifically for the space.

A custom built-in seating area in the living room incorporates hidden storage within a 2.7m x 1m sofa, maximising functionality without compromising aesthetics.

In the bedrooms, built-in wardrobes provide generous storage while maintaining clean, uncluttered interiors.

Project Outcome

The completed Streatham studio flat extension demonstrates how intelligent architectural design can transform a compact property into a spacious and contemporary home.

The project successfully:

• Increased the floor area from 33m² to 70m²
• Introduced two bedrooms and an en-suite bathroom
• Created a bright open-plan living space
• Added a private courtyard connection
• Improved natural light throughout the property

The result is a highly functional home that feels significantly larger than its original footprint.

Considering a Studio Flat Extension?

If you are considering a studio flat extension in Streatham, London or across the UK, our architectural team can help you maximise the potential of your property.

From early design concepts to planning approval and construction drawings, we work closely with clients to create spaces that are both practical and architecturally refined.

Explore our London architecture services