Lothair Road: A Full Restoration and Extension to this Victorian Property Located in Finsbury Park, North London.
Produced & Written by Dan Burge | 1 June 2025
HomeInspire filmed this project with Karisma back in May 2025, shortly after she completed this full-scale Victorian terrace renovation in London.
In this tour, we met Karisma, an Architect for Louis Vitton and Property Developer, who she showed us around one of her latest property developments. The property was taken back to brick, extended to the side and rear, and transformed inside with modern, bespoke interiors. Karisma combined period charm with contemporary luxury — from a full-height glass infill extension to chevron wood flooring, smart storage solutions, and thoughtful material choices throughout the home.
From Back-to-Brick to Architectural Rebuild
Stripping Back to Reveal Potential
Before Karisma stepped in, the Victorian terrace was tired and compartmentalised, with dated interiors and inefficient layouts. The renovation involved taking the property back to brick, carefully stripping the existing structure, and removing previous extensions to create a clean canvas for the new design.
Structural changes included two loft extensions, a five-meter rear infill, and side extensions to open up the layout. Existing features like floors and staircases were modernised or replaced, while new bespoke joinery, full-height glazing, and a carefully curated material palette brought a cohesive, high-end feel. The renovation work not only reshaped the home visually but also improved circulation, storage, and natural light, setting the stage for Karisma’s interior design.
Structural Extensions That Reshaped the Home
The transformation included two loft extensions, a five-metre rear infill, and side extensions that opened up the footprint dramatically. These interventions not only expanded the home but also redefined how each level connects.
Floors and staircases were modernised or replaced, circulation routes improved, and new glazing introduced to maximise natural light throughout.
Designing for Modern Living
Beyond aesthetics, the renovation focused heavily on function. Smart storage solutions, upgraded services, and improved thermal performance ensure the house works just as beautifully behind the scenes as it does visually.
The result is a Victorian terrace that feels cohesive, contemporary, and built for long-term living.
Bespoke Interiors & Material Harmony
Period Character Meets Contemporary Craft
On the ground floor, two reception rooms lead seamlessly into the kitchen, maintaining the traditional rhythm of a Victorian layout while embracing open-plan living.
Versailles parquet flooring defines the living area, while simpler planks subtly guide movement toward the dining space — a quiet but effective zoning technique. Walnut accents contrast against lighter oak finishes, creating warmth and depth.
Custom Joinery with Hidden Function
Bespoke cabinetry plays a central role in the design. Hidden TV units, integrated shelving, and a window seat with built-in storage ensure that practicality never compromises elegance.
One standout feature is a set of illuminated display shelves. Integrated lighting highlights collected objects and personal pieces, adding both atmosphere and personality to the space.
A Cohesive, Curated Palette
Throughout the home, material choices remain deliberate and restrained. Wood tones, soft neutrals, black detailing, and subtle metallic accents work together to create a refined yet welcoming environment.
Every junction feels considered — from joinery lines to flooring transitions — reinforcing the sense of bespoke craftsmanship.
The Glass Infill Extension: Blurring Old and New
A Five-Metre Architectural Statement
At the rear, a full-height glass infill extension pushes the kitchen five metres into the garden. Designed with zero-frame glazing and ceiling-height sliding doors, the intervention intentionally contrasts with the traditional brick shell.
The transparency creates a seamless connection to the outdoor space, immediately drawing the eye toward a lush green wall beyond.
A Kitchen Designed for Entertaining
A 2.4-metre island anchors the space, serving as both a functional prep zone and a social hub. The layout supports everyday family life while effortlessly accommodating summer entertaining.
By eliminating heavy framing around the glazing, the extension achieves a clean, architectural clarity that enhances the sense of openness.
Indoor-Outdoor Continuity
When the sliding doors are open, the boundary between inside and out almost disappears. The extension floods the kitchen with natural light and reframes the garden as part of the interior experience.
It’s a contemporary intervention that respects the original architecture while confidently introducing something new.
Upstairs: Calm, Light & Carefully Considered Detail
Three Bedrooms with Elevated Finishes
The first floor accommodates three bedrooms and a family bathroom. Each bedroom benefits from generous glazing, considered storage, and carefully selected materials that maintain consistency with the ground floor.
Even the smallest bedroom feels intentional, with views of the green wall replacing what would otherwise have been a brick outlook.
A Spa-Like Family Bathroom
In the main bathroom, a full-width recessed niche with integrated lighting introduces a hotel-inspired feel. Frosted glass shower screens maintain privacy while allowing light to filter through.
Black detailing adds contrast and sophistication, while a smart home system controls heating and lighting for enhanced comfort and efficiency.
Smart Technology Integration
Behind the refined finishes lies a fully integrated smart system managing lighting and climate control. Technology is discreet but effective, enhancing daily life without dominating the design.
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The Loft Suite: An Apartment Within the House
Designing Around Low Ceilings
The newly extended loft level functions as a private retreat. A key challenge was ceiling height — a common issue in loft conversions — addressed through clever spatial planning.
Low-profile, Japanese-inspired furniture and integrated headboard lighting create the illusion of additional height, while roof lights draw daylight deep into the room.
Bespoke Storage & Subtle Luxury
Custom wardrobes with integrated lighting maximise storage without clutter. Mirrored surfaces amplify natural light and enhance the feeling of space.
A frameless Juliet balcony introduces fresh air and visual openness without interrupting the clean lines of the facade.
A High-End Ensuite Retreat
The ensuite bathroom benefits from increased ceiling height and a roof light overhead, elevating the sense of luxury. Refined materials and minimal detailing maintain the home’s cohesive aesthetic while offering privacy and calm.
Project Info
Location: Finsbury Park, North London
Follow Karisma on Instagram to see more!
Filmed & Produced by HomeInspire
Written by Dan Burge | Founder of HomeInspire
Video Statistics
YouTube Views: 725,000+
YouTube Impressions: 3,500,000+
Instagram & TikTok Views: 300,000+
To see more, watch our full project tour on our YouTube channel!
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