Designing for Happiness: A Transformative House Renovation in London

When Nic Gray and his wife, Hayfa Hamdan, extended their Edwardian home in London, they discovered how focusing on light, space, and thoughtful design could transform their lives. Nic shares, ‘I just have a much greater sense of serenity and calmness [here].’ Their house, dating back to 1903, was revamped by Wellstudio, an architecture practice dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of its clients.

The couple moved into their charming Arts & Crafts-style home in late 2021, only to find its original layout lacking. ‘It was freezing cold and hard to keep clean,’ Hayfa explains. With a tiny kitchen tucked away, their love for cooking and entertaining was stunted. Thus, they sought a solution to enhance the functionality of their space.

A Different Approach to Design

Architect Tom Manwell took on the challenge of redesigning the interior, leading to a unique kitchen extension inspired by large French windows. The new design included beautiful curved arches and opened up the space to the garden. ‘When I stand at the door to the extension and see all those curves, it makes me feel… free,’ Hamdan raves about the aesthetic.

Curved arches add contrast and softness to the space.

Curved arches add contrast and softness to the space. Credit: Chris Snook.

Manwell’s innovative design reflects a broader trend in architecture focusing on wellbeing. ‘After the pandemic, people just have more awareness now of how a building can support their wellbeing,’ he notes. Research supports the notion that well-designed spaces can promote happiness, leading the couple to feel more connected and serene within their home.

Connecting with Nature

Light and nature played a crucial role in the renovation, with a new window seat designed to overlook their garden. ‘It’s really nice to lie on the floor and look up, watching the birds and aeroplanes,’ Hayfa shares, highlighting their daily connection with nature. Gray appreciates the view as a therapeutic escape, enhancing their overall quality of life.

The large window seat allows the couple to enjoy views of their garden.

The large window seat allows the couple to enjoy views of their garden. Credit: Chris Snook photography.

Through their transformative renovation, Gray and Hamdan have created a home that not only showcases architectural elegance but also fosters emotional wellbeing. ‘The outcome has absolutely been transformative emotionally, as well as for the way we live our life,’ Gray expresses, showcasing the lasting impact of thoughtful design in creating happier, healthier living spaces.