Sydney Street Townhouse, Chelsea

A Grade II listed early Victorian townhouse in Chelsea, forming part of a historic terrace within the Chelsea Conservation Area. The project proposes the sensitive refurbishment, restoration and modernisation of the house, alongside carefully considered additions that will extend it to five storeys.

Internally, the proposals seek to repair the effects of successive alterations and reinstate the architectural character of the original house. Missing chimney breasts, cornices, skirtings, ceiling roses and traditionally detailed doors will be restored, while the internal arrangement will be adapted to create a more coherent and comfortable contemporary family home.

At lower ground floor level, an existing poorly constructed rear addition will be rebuilt to provide a more considered extension with finely detailed metal framed glazing. The wider rear garden arrangement will also be rationalised to create a stronger relationship between the house and its external spaces.

A new mansard storey is proposed at third floor level, designed to follow the scale, profile and traditional material palette of the neighbouring mansards. By completing a gap within the established roofscape, the addition will bring greater consistency to the terrace while providing valuable additional accommodation.

At the heart of the project is the careful reconciliation of heritage, sustainability and modern family life: restoring lost historic detail, improving the performance of the building and introducing new elements that remain respectful of the significance of the listed house and its wider setting.