Caroline and Mike purchased a large 1920s property that had not been updated for decades. They loved the character of the house, especially the high ceilings and original features, but the layout felt dark and disconnected from the garden. Before making any changes, they lived in the home for a full year to understand how the light moved through the rooms and how they naturally used the space.
They wanted to open up the ground floor, improve the flow to the garden and create a bright, modern family space that still respected the charm of the original architecture. As Mike explained, they needed to find a way to combine the 1920s character with a contemporary twist.
Working closely with their architect, they developed a plan that involved removing internal walls, adding a modest rear extension and introducing large bi‑fold doors to bring in as much natural light as possible. The goal was to create a space that worked for everyday family life and also for entertaining.
They envisioned a room that felt open, durable and practical. A place where the children could play freely, where friends could gather around the kitchen island and where the garden felt like an extension of the home. Mike summed it up clearly. “Whenever we have friends around, it is a really good space for entertaining.”
The challenge was to achieve this without compromising the character of the original house.
We worked with Caroline and Mike to integrate a shading solution that supported their architectural vision. The new bi‑fold doors and glazing brought in beautiful daylight, but they also required careful control to maintain comfort throughout the year.
The solution needed to be discreet, reliable and sympathetic to the blend of old and new. By selecting a system that complemented the contemporary elements while respecting the period features, we helped them achieve the balance they were aiming for.
The shading was designed to manage heat and glare without reducing the openness of the space. It allowed the family to enjoy the light they had worked so hard to bring in, while keeping the room comfortable and functional.
The transformation created a bright, welcoming space that feels connected to the garden and perfectly suited to family life. The tiled flooring makes the room practical for children and pets, and the large kitchen island has become a natural gathering point for friends and visitors.
The new glazing and shading work together to create a calm, comfortable environment throughout the day. The room now performs exactly as they hoped, offering the light and openness of a modern extension while still feeling rooted in the character of the original 1920s home.
Caroline and Mike are delighted with the outcome. As Mike said, “We wanted a space we could enjoy with the kids, and that is exactly what we have now.”
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