Alistair and Jude Eastman’s stylish refurb and extension has transformed their traditional semi into a stunning light-filled home 

WORDS REBECCA FOSTER 

Above: Built with a steel frame and block outer skin, the side and rear extensions have added 66m2 to the property’s fl oor area

PHOTOS ALISTAIR BUTLER

Alistair and Jude Eastman had lived in their traditional, semi-detached 1920s home in North London for three decades when they decided the time was ripe to renovate. “We initially considered moving out rather than updating the house. We’d been to see a new build not too far away that was really special,” says Alistair. “But, for various reasons, we ultimately decided to stay put and refurbish our current place.We’d also realised the financial balance would work out better this way, rather than purchasing a new property.”

The cantilevered island appears to defy reality with its floating form

Drastic transformation

While they ultimately chose not to self build, the striking new dwelling the couple had seen on their house hunt left a lasting impact. “We wanted to recreate the atmosphere and the sense of light,” says Alistair. The couple tracked down the architectural practice that had developed the design for the new build and approached them to take on their project.

When the Eastmans met architects Thomas Trail and Ross Carpenter (formerly of Carpenter & Trail) there was an instant synergy. “I spent quite a lot of time with Alistair and Jude, not only to understand their house, but also to get a handle on what they wanted and what it was about that particular new build that had inspired them,” says Thomas. “They trusted us a lot, so it turned out to be a great working relationship.”