The home, reinvented

by Ellie Hargreaves

24th February 2025

Fourteen of London’s best home renovation projects are on display at The London Centre. 'The home, reinvented', open to the public every Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00–17:00, showcases the brilliant work of both emerging and established architects, as well as the creative vision of London’s dedicated homeowners.

Woven through the exhibition is a unifying philosophy of adaptive living. These unique homes have adapted to the dynamic needs of their inhabitants, preserving the integrity of their architectural roots while evolving to meet contemporary lifestyles. Every project reveals a story of honouring the past while embracing the wants and needs of the present and future.

Blending the old with the new

Homes can evolve to offer a seamless connection between past and present while providing a flexible, functional space for the future. ‘Elemental House’ by Archmongers reimagined a 1970s split-level house in Hackney. With subtle yet striking structural interventions, the design integrates modernity with the building’s original heritage to craft a functional, timeless space.

 “We knew the house had the right DNA to become a special place to live, but it turned out to be an even stronger framework than expected, with the house itself guiding the significant transformation, deploying bold forms and honest self-finished materials to enhance what was originally there.” - Johan Hybschmann, Director, Archmongers

Elemental House by Archmongers, photography by Jim Stephenson and French + Tye

‘Steel House’ by EBBA Architects skilfully merges Victorian charm with contemporary design, featuring a double-height extension. Similarly, projects on display like ‘Hartley House’ by THISS Studio and ‘RAW House’ by O'Sullivan Skoufoglou Architects highlight how adaptive design within existing footprints can unlock untapped potential, proving that thoughtful, cost-effective structural updates can foster both practicality and a deeper connection to the surrounding environment.

Using materials to tell a story

Cork cladding is a conversation starter, thanks to ‘Nina’s House’ by Nina+Co with ROAR. Winning this year’s Environmental Prize, the project prompts discussion of how sustainable materials can influence design choices, highlighting a wider aesthetic appreciation for eco-conscious materials in home renovation.

A ‘House Extension in Islington’ by VATRAA showcases energy-efficient solutions, using reclaimed materials and sunken extensions to enhance the connection to nature. 'Hope Villa' by Proctor & Shaw reuses steel frames and incorporates a biodiverse rain garden, while 'Upper Addison Gardens' by Woodrow Vizor Architects & LonProp embraces timber as a primary exposed structure to provide a biophilic material backdrop for the client's open plan family space. From cork to reused steel and timber, visit the exhibition to explore these materials in person and discover how homeowners can tell a story through their material choices. 

Nina's House by Nina+Co with ROAR, photography by French + Tye

A multi-generational journey

Embodying the philosophy of adaptive design is 'Hands–On Home' by Natallia Tanko, an intimate, self-built renovation of a 1970s property in Forest Hill. Over five years, the homeowners, driven by a passion for craftsmanship and a desire for a simpler, more authentic lifestyle, transformed their home through a gradual, hands-on process.

“We love that we took our time and didn’t rush, which allowed us to truly enjoy the process rather than racing to the finish. Doing it together as a family made us feel deeply connected and in love with every corner of our home, and now our kids are dreaming about building their own houses one day.” – Natallia Tanko, homeowner

The project brought together three generations, grandparents lending a helping hand to children learning the craft. With a step-by-step process, the homeowners were able to adapt to evolving needs, experiment with materials, and celebrate the power of DIY. The renovation stands as a reminder of the enduring bond that forms when a home is shaped by the hands and hearts of those who live in it.

Visit 'The home, reinvented'

The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the transformative power of adaptive living firsthand. Each of the fourteen featured projects presents a unique approach to blending historical architecture with modern innovation, highlighting how thoughtful design can create homes that evolve with time. From sustainable material choices to multi-generational renovations, the exhibition provides a glimpse into how homes can be reshaped to meet present and future needs.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for inspiration for your own home, don’t miss The Home, Reinvented on display at The London Centre and explore the unique and diverse character of homes across London.

'The home, reinvented' tells the story of designing for adaptive living through this year’s Don’t Move, Improve! shortlist and is open to the public until the end of June.