Project 1
About The Project
Located in a conservation area near St Albans Cathedral, this Victorian terraced house had plenty of character but limited space. The property needed extensive renovation, and its original two-bedroom layout no longer met the needs of a growing family.
The brief was to create a contemporary, practical home with additional living space, a home office and an ensuite shower room, while respecting the history and character of the original building.
Location: Central St Albans, near St Albans Cathedral
Project type: Whole-house renovation and extension
Design Shaped Around You
The Design Approach
Working alongside local architects, I developed a completely new layout incorporating a basement conversion, loft conversion and single-storey rear extension. The project also involved repositioning the existing stairs and designing three new staircases to connect the different levels.
With the property’s unusual shape and limited natural light, making the best use of every inch was essential. Bespoke storage, carefully planned layouts and considered furniture choices helped maximise the available space without compromising on style.
I prepared floor plans, illustrations, sample boards, lighting plans and 3D visuals to help the clients visualise the proposed design before work began. I also managed the project throughout the build, working with tradespeople and resolving unexpected challenges as they arose.
Bringing Old and New Together
The interior scheme combines the property’s Victorian heritage with contemporary and mid-century modern influences. Original fireplaces, antique furniture and restored pine floorboards were retained or restored, creating a connection to the house’s history.
A rich colour palette, natural fabrics and carefully selected statement pieces brought warmth and personality to the interiors. In the reception room, darker walls, a contemporary Kilim rug and an orange wool-upholstered egg chair created a cosy yet vibrant atmosphere.
In the kitchen, the decision to avoid wall units helped the space feel more open. Wenge worktops, a bespoke glass splashback and a dresser incorporating concealed boiler storage and a tea and coffee station balanced practicality with considered design.
Upstairs, the redesigned layout created space for an ensuite shower room and a children’s bedroom within the loft. In the master bedroom, thoughtful furniture placement allowed for a full wall of wardrobes while retaining space for a full-sized shower in the ensuite.
Overcoming The Challenges
The property’s narrow, triangular shape, tight dimensions and limited natural light required careful planning throughout. The basement conversion also uncovered unexpected structural issues, including a missing wall that required temporary support while a permanent solution was developed with the structural engineer.
As project manager, I worked closely with the tradespeople and specialists to address these discoveries, adapt plans where necessary and ensure the design was carried through as effectively as possible.
The Result
The completed renovation transformed a compact Victorian property into a flexible, characterful family home. By combining extensive structural changes with thoughtful interior design, the project created more room for family life while preserving the features and individuality that made the original house special.
Kind Words From Clients
I met Viktoryia through my friends and immediately I felt at ease with her. I had some rough ideas how to improve my living room, but due to the lack of time and creativity, all those ideas couldn’t materialise. I have spoken to Viktoryia on how I like my living room to change as at the past it was mainly used by my husband and there were lots of cables, devices and gadgets. I wanted to create tasteful and used by all family living room, so all members of my family could enjoy the space. Victoria scheduled initial visit free of charge and we spent at least 2 hours planning on improvements. In a couple of days I received an email with rough ideas, drawings and collages on possible solutions. After some thinking the design was chosen and Viktoryia directed me to the places I can order or buy furniture and other items. She always responded on my calls/ emails/watsups even during weekends and evenings and gave me all the attention I needed. She also accompanied me to some of the shops to help me choosing items. In general, I am very happy with the service I received and would recommend Viktoryia as an interior designer to everyone. My family and I enjoying our new, colourful and multifunctional living room and I have received lots of compliments from my visitors.
