Future-ProofFamilyHouse

Our clients approached us with the complete energy and interior refurbishment of a detached suburban family house, originally built in 1989. The aim was to create a contemporary, long-term sustainable home that is both functionally flexible and aesthetically refined: immediately livable, yet open to future extensions.

The project was designed and delivered in less than a year. During the transformation, particular attention was paid to optimizing the façade openings, which not only improved energy performance but also played a key role in reorganizing the interiors. When redistributing the spaces, we focused on maximizing natural light from all directions, supported by the careful design of light axes.

A central request from the clients was for the house to feature multi-functional, clearly zoned spaces with high acoustic comfort. To achieve this, we retained the load-bearing structure, reinforced the roof, and introduced a new intermediate CLT timber floor, creating dynamic spatial layering that responds to the existing double-height volume.

From an energy perspective, a highly efficient air-to-water heat pump provides the base heating and cooling capacity, supplemented by a photovoltaic system. At the client’s request, the existing wood-burning fireplace was integrated as an alternative heating option. The HVAC system was designed with full zoning capability, offering advanced control in terms of both comfort and energy efficiency, even through remote access.

The interior design concept draws from Anglo-Saxon stylistic traditions: a restrained, neutral color palette, classical proportions, and harmonized materiality. Chevron-patterned parquet flooring, highlighting the natural timber, lends timeless elegance to the interiors.

In terms of spatial use, establishing seasonal and diurnal outdoor connections was a priority. Terraces were added on all four sides of the building, ensuring functional external living spaces throughout the year. The design also anticipates future multi-generational use: the floors can be separated, each with independent entrances and dedicated mechanical zones.

This project demonstrates how a family house from 1989 can be transformed into a 21st-century smart home; without compromising architectural character or functional adaptability.