Unknown Works has transformed practice Director Theo Games Petrohilos’ home, resulting in a bright minimalist sanctuary in Kentish Town, North London. Using a bold approach towards layout and naturally finished materials, the studio has crafted a home flooded with light and embraced by a lushly planted hidden garden. Purchased in 2017, the existing spaces suffered from limited daylight and ventilation, decorated with faux marble tiling and a combination of dark hardwood and peeling lino flooring. Owing to an L-shaped layout typical of Victorian terraced houses, the living spaces felt disconnected from the exterior courtyard, which featured a mature overgrown jungle of fig and bay trees.

The priority was to create a flexible floor plan which increased cross ventilation and maximised access to natural light; a space to cook, work, relax and withdraw. For Theo, a keen host, the kitchen has always been the social heart of a good home; a space where friends and family gather to cook and eat together. Unknown Works has added a side infill and slight rear extension, stepping just 1 metre into the rear courtyard garden.The reclaimed space has defined a whole new home, offering a versatile floorplan accommodating a custom stainless steel kitchen, modular furniture designed by Unknown Works, and an internal courtyard. A concrete floor anchors both the in and outdoors, expanding the sense of space to give a feeling of al fresco dining experience year-round. The ceiling throughout has been rebuilt with resilient bars and acoustic insulation to reduce neighbourly noise.

Abundant natural light and airflow was central to the project brief to define an airy antithesis to the pervasive problems of London terraced homes. Working within the constraints of the tight existing plan, Unknown Works designed a new internal courtyard at the centre of the home, ensuring all the rooms breathe and benefit from cross ventilation. The dining, lounge area and large kitchen sink have dedicated openings overlooking the second courtyard garden which is lined with white pebbles, reminiscent of Japanese stone gardens.

The practice designed a 16-seater stainless steel table, featuring a crisp edge and reflective patina designed to complement the surrounding concrete textures. Mounted on bright orange castors, it can be positioned in various configurations, even moving outside in the summer when the weather allows. Lighting too was key; a custom hanging aluminium light is suspended over the kitchen, while hidden recessed ceiling lights in the dining, living, and bathroom area sit flush within the ceiling surface for a polished and sleek finish. Unknown Works’ attention to detail and transformative design approach have turned a once confined home into a functional and peaceful, light-filled haven. Oasis exemplifies Unknown Works’expertise in creating modern architectural spaces, interiors and furniture within a refined material palette.