Fifteen projects are in the running for the award that recognises London’s best home improvements

Words
Jason Sayer

Marking its 13th year, the New London Architecture (NLA) competition has produced a shortlist of 15 London-based projects that showcase resourceful and innovative methods of refurbishing dwellings, making them fit for purpose for the demands of contemporary and future living.

The shortlist for this year’s awards was whittled down from more than 200 submissions. Due to be announced in May, winners will be chosen by a judging panel comprising Phil Coffey of Coffey Architects, journalist Anna White, Sebastian Wood of Whitby Wood, journalist and broadcaster, Kunle Barker and Amy Chadwick of the NLA.

A Tuscan Veranda by Turner Architects

Photos Adam Scott

Located in Lambeth, this dwelling draws from Italian terraces — embodied in its Romanesque arches. The kitchen has also been remodelled while views into the house and dining area from the garden have been framed, inspired by, Raphael’s Pillars of Knowledge.

Little Brownings by Archmongers Architects

Photos Archmongers

Archmongers Architects has refurbished a three storey 1960s terraced house on the Dulwich Estate in Forest Hill. Keen to retain its ‘60s charm, the architects have used colour and a considered material palette to modernise the property.

Non Boxy Lofty by Fraher & Findlay

Photos Chris Wharton

In a fresh look at loft conversions, Fraher & Findlay has placed a kitchen and dining area into an extended loft, meaning its residents can now dine while overlooking neighbouring rooftops. Bedrooms, a bathroom and living room, meanwhile, reside underneath, connected by a perforated metal staircase.

Pergola House by Benjamin Wilkes

Photos Billy Bolton

For this Lewisham project, Benjamin Wilkes has extended a Victorian family home in the Lee Manor Conservation Area, expanding the kitchen to better cater for a growing family. Bricks from existing external walls have been re-used to reduce waste, while oak has been employed for a pergola, the ribs of which continue inside, where with clay render and terrazzo have also been used.

Transitions by Red Squirrel Architects

Photos Adelina Iliev

Adding just 10 square metres of floorspace, Red Squirrel Architects has remodelled two rear extensions to unite previously disconnected areas of living, forming a kitchen, dining and living area that looks out onto a newly landscaped terrace.

Coffered House by Proctor and Shaw

Photos Nick Deardon

Proctor and Shaw has used a custom Accoya timber-framed window system as part of a deep retrofit to a V