In the heart Camdendistrict in the north Londonalone Victorian terraced house it has been transformed into a serene haven of light and tranquility. Purchased in 2017 by Theo Games Petrohilos, director of the architecture and design studio Unknown work, this space has been carefully renovated. During the works, in an attempt to improve access to natural light, promote ventilation and emphasize the connection to the hidden garden at the back, the studio achieved a complete metamorphosis of the domestic environment, bringing to life an exceptionally bright and airy house that celebrates nature at its heart her living space. They chose, not surprisingly, to rename this intervention Oasisexpress a desire to create an oasis of peace between vegetation and city. Because the project breathed new life into the walls of the Victorian house, turning it into a haven that opens out into quiet courtyards and corners of lush greenery. By creating a flexible floor plan, the architects also allowed residents to transition seamlessly from work to relaxation and socializing, while significantly improving natural light and ventilation by creating a central courtyard.
A new rear extension was added to the original house, to accommodate a custom built kitchen with custom modules, designed by the studio. At the center of the new environment, a monolithic, large custom-made stainless steel dining table was placed, the focal point of the environment and its social value, equipped with orange wheels that make this design piece easy to move outdoors. The choice of material is not accidental: the reflective surface amplifies the light and ties in colorfully and physically with the concrete floors that run from the kitchen to the terrace. The original wooden floors now boast a white finish that matches the new furniture in the same color, further emphasizing brightness of spaces. The home’s atmosphere is peaceful, carefully balanced between natural light and light finishes, then highlighted by a floating light point above the kitchen. The rest of the artificial lighting is controlled by a recessed lighting system, which is level with the ceiling and is also present in the dining room, living room and bathroom. The kitchen, dining room and living room then open onto another courtyard inspired by Japanese gardens, with a landscape of white pebbles. In the bedroom, also painted bright white, two floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, mounted on practical wheels, act as partitions when needed.
Inspired by modernist houses, the studio used a carefully selected palette of white oiled wood, concrete, stainless steel and glass, enriched with textured light blocks. Orange and yellow accents add pops of color throughout, while artwork creates focal points in strategic locations throughout the home. The ceilings of the building were also rebuilt and, precisely to follow the original concept of the oasis, the quiet retreat in the city center, soundproofed. “This space has turned into a testament to thoughtful design, where light, air and function blend seamlessly. Every part of this project has redefined my daily experience of the home, celebrating the connection with the outdoors and nature. Above all, this space invites people, to withdraw from the city… and eat,” concludes Theo Games, CEO of Unknown Works and designer of Oasis.
Ludovica Proietti studied architecture never to become an architect. After a master’s degree in design, she completed an internship with Domitilla Dardi and became her assistant, both teaching and curating various events, specializing in design history and architecture. He led talks and events related to design in the Roman co-working space Ala/34 until 2019 and now teaches at various institutions in the capital and is the editor-in-chief of the blog Cieloterradesign. A consultant and freelance journalist, he cares about the culture of modern design and always tries to favor perspectives that will never be obvious.