O’Sullivan Skoufoglou Architects have recently transformed a Victorian terraced house in Clapham, London, into a vibrant home and gallery for Tanya Grigoroglou and Rupert Worrall, the creative forces behind RAW Editions. This isn’t simply a dwelling; it’s a dynamic space where life and art intertwine, reflecting the couple’s unique “living with art” ethos. The architects have cleverly navigated the challenges of the existing structure, creating a versatile environment that seamlessly blends public and private realms.
The initial challenge lay in the house’s disjointed layout. The ground floor and basement, previously commercial spaces, suffered from limited light and restricted flow. The main stair’s direct descent into the basement further exacerbated this disconnection. O’Sullivan Skoufoglou‘s intervention was to reimagine the space, prioritizing adaptability and blurring the lines between living and working.
The new entrance now reveals a warm and inviting gallery and social space, flooded with natural light that pours in through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. This bright ambiance immediately establishes a welcoming atmosphere, highlighting the eclectic curation of RAW Editions. Sliding shutters provide a visual indication of the gallery’s opening and closing, while a bold red terrazzo fireplace wall, reminiscent of the original fireplace, serves as a dynamic display ledge for rotating artworks.
Departing from the typical stark white cube aesthetic often found in galleries, the architects have chosen a muted palette of soft pinks and yellows that resonate with RAW’s unique style. A thoughtfully redesigned staircase functions as a discreet portal, cleverly concealing access to the private quarters above and effectively delineating the public gallery space from the family’s living areas.
The heart of the home lies in the basement, where the open-plan kitchen becomes a hub for family life. Two strategically placed triangular oriel openings flood the lower-ground level with natural light. One, a triangular skylight above a Douglas fir ply bench nook, creates a contemplative space for relaxation and play. The other, a glazed door, opens onto the garden, seamlessly connecting inside and out.
Materiality plays a crucial role in the home’s character. The kitchen cabinets, crafted from birch plywood, are treated with a colorful linseed oil stain, revealing the wood grain and adding a layer of visual interest. Inlaid concrete tiles define distinct zones within the kitchen, while a versatile bench provides both shelving and guest seating. Pops of vibrant color, such as the tomato-red kitchen sink taps and the dark red rainwater pipe, inject personality and reflect the playful nature of the clients and their ever-changing art collection.
The connection between the house and garden was a crucial aspect of the design. Rather than expanding the building’s footprint, which would have required expensive groundwork due to the garden’s elevation changes, O’Sullivan Skoufoglou made a clever choice to reposition the rear elevation windows. This adjustment allows for oblique views of the garden, enhancing the visual relationship between the interior spaces and the outdoor environment.
The garden’s angular, sculptural hardscaping, paired with low-maintenance, climate-resilient plants, creates a stunning backdrop that can be appreciated from various vantage points within the house. Additionally, the external patio steps, along with the triangular geometry of the oriel window, effectively dissolve the lines separating the inside from the outside, inviting a seamless flow between the two realms.
Throughout the home, subtle design details create a sense of rhythm and consistency. Bespoke circular door pulls and delicate metal handrails with thin circular detailing are repeated, adding a touch of elegance and cohesion. Upstairs, the master bedroom and children’s rooms occupy the first and second floors, respectively, each with its own bathroom featuring matte-colored tiles.
Sustainability is woven into the fabric of the house. Double glazing, underfloor heating, and provisions for future heat pump installation demonstrate a commitment to energy efficiency. A comprehensive fireproofing strategy, including sprinklers, ensures safety. By maximizing the existing layout without unnecessary extensions, the architects have demonstrated a responsible approach to resource utilization.
The RAW House is more than just a home; it’s a carefully curated environment that reflects the unique personalities and passions of its inhabitants. O’Sullivan Skoufoglou Architects have created a space where art, family, and everyday life converge, offering moments of peace, joy, and inspiration for everyone within its walls. This project exemplifies the power of thoughtful design to create a dynamic and truly personal living experience.