Minty House by Peter Morris Architects: A Contemporary Victorian Refurbishment in West Hampstead

Nestled among the classic Victorian terraces of West Hampstead, Minty House has been transformed into a contemporary, light-filled residence that seamlessly merges heritage architecture with modern design. Led by Peter Morris Architects, the project aimed to create a cohesive, spacious, and distinctive home while respecting the original Victorian character of the property.

Complete Refurbishment and Kitchen Extension

The refurbishment involved a full-scale renovation, including a thoughtfully designed kitchen extension that fills in the side return. This addition enhances the home’s functionality, provides additional living space, and strengthens the connection between interior spaces and the garden. The project’s primary goal was to introduce both design coherence and individuality, turning the house into a residence that feels expansive yet intimate.

Striking Curved Glass Bay Window

A standout feature of Minty House is the curved glass bay window, a bespoke element that not only amplifies natural light but also acts as a visual centerpiece. Extending outward to capture garden views, this elegant curve creates a sense of openness and fluidity while adding a modern twist to the Victorian façade. By combining functionality with a touch of architectural quirkiness, the bay window ensures Minty House stands apart from its neighbors, creating a unique identity and enhancing the home’s overall aesthetic.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Integration

To further blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, the architects incorporated a minimal-framed sliding door system. These sleek doors create a seamless transition from the kitchen and dining area to the garden, inviting natural light and outdoor scenery into the heart of the home. This integration not only expands living space visually but also enriches the daily experience by fostering a closer connection with nature.

Sculptural Skylights Enhancing Natural Light

Minty House features a series of distinctive skylights, both square and circular, strategically placed throughout the extension. The square skylights reinforce the linear, modern aesthetic, casting dynamic light patterns across interior surfaces. In contrast, the circular skylights introduce softness and organic warmth, bathing spaces in tranquil pools of light. Together, these skylights function as both practical light sources and sculptural design elements, enhancing the home’s character and visual interest.

Cohesive Design and Flow

Throughout the renovation, emphasis was placed on creating a harmonious flow from the front to the rear of the house. Strategic glazing, open sightlines, and careful placement of architectural elements allow light to penetrate deep into the home, fostering a sense of continuity and spatial coherence. The interplay of the curved bay window, sliding doors, and sculptural skylights injects personality while maintaining a refined and modern interpretation of Victorian architecture.

A Light-Filled, Distinctive Home

Today, Minty House stands as a shining example of how thoughtful design can elevate a traditional Victorian home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. With its bright interiors, innovative glazing, and sculptural skylights, the property exemplifies a successful blend of heritage preservation, modern architecture, and functional refinement. The home is not only a space for living but a statement of style, individuality, and architectural craftsmanship.

All photographs are works of Juliet Murphy Photography