No one would wish to live in a dark and dingy home. Here we explore various ways to introduce natural light into your London property.
Space in London is tight and those looking to buy are always concerned about the brightness of London’s period homes as it is not always easy to achieve. Houses are often closely packed and streets blocked by various buildings. Nevertheless, there are a handful of innovative ideas to brighten up even the darkest of properties.
Most terraced homes without the luxury of having a garden (Mews houses would be an good example) have the unfortunate feature of having windows only at the front of the property. An example of this is a Mews house project in Belgravia we have recently completed where windows at the front were its only source of natural light. The property is enclosed on all three sides by the neighbouring houses. We sought to excavate the basement whilst creating an Atrium towards the back of the building.
Whilst a light well may reduce some usable space within the home, it will significantly increase the property’s value by adding the wow factor price central properties need to achieve its full potential in terms of value. An Atrium really is the answer to provide originally dark interiors the natural light they (and the owner/buyer) need.
In addition, glass flooring will invite natural light to infiltrate effortlessly into the lower levels of a property. Specifically lower ground or basement. In relation to a separate project of ours located in a Knightsbridge Mews, our team set about constructing the basement space both practical and functional. Glass flooring in the ground floor reception and glass bannisters on the stairwell leading all the way up to the top of the building allows light directly into floors below. To enhance this light the glass flooring and bannister was letting through, the installation of large mirrors reflecting this light into specific areas of the subterranean level was a perfect way to make sure the light reached all areas of the lower levels. Additionally, a retractable glazed roof that allowed you to see the sky from a basement was that little bit of intangible luxury that was truly unique to this property.
Across each of the four floors, a four by four metre central piece of the property was removed with a retractable glass roof installed at the top. A bespoke large chandelier was fitted to the back wall providing a beautiful piece of striking interior design. With the glass balustrades providing that minimalist look, the home instantly became a haven for natural light.
Piperhill Construction pride ourselves in being one on London’s leading contractors. We are experienced and qualified to undertake all aspects of work; from new build, basement construction, refurbishment, Luxury Interior Fit out and listed building restoration through to fully integrated services and first class designer finishes. Whether working within design and build or traditional contracts, our unfailing aim is to meet all of our clients and their consultants requirements and to produce the highest quality finished project.
Please contact us on 0208 166 5607 if you wish to discuss a project.