Color plays a transformative role in unifying and redefining the spatial experience of this London home—proving that even small design details, like a splash of bold hue, can create profound connections throughout a residence. But here's where it gets controversial: should such striking color choices be viewed as merely decorative, or do they serve a deeper purpose in architectural storytelling? This is exactly what Nimtim Architects explored with their recent renovation and extension project, aptly named Peek-a-Blue.
Located in London, this project exemplifies how strategic design interventions can effectively reimagine a home’s layout, especially within the context of an already existing, somewhat fragmented ground floor plan. The goal was to transform the spatial flow, making it more cohesive and suited to modern family life.
Central to this transformation is an almost double-height retreat or snug that has been placed at the core of the home. This feature visually and physically links to an expanded kitchen and dining area at the rear of the house—creating a seamless flow between spaces. To better integrate these new zones, the architects lowered the floor of the snug, addressing a natural drop of about one meter from the front of the house leading to the garden. This clever move allowed direct access from the kitchen to the garden, blurring indoor and outdoor boundaries and enhancing the sense of openness.
According to project lead Pippa Grayson, the primary aim was to craft a new living environment that authentically reflects the family’s lifestyle. She elaborated, “The design lowers the front part of the original house to match the garden’s level, resulting in a living area that feels appropriately scaled and directly connected to outdoor spaces.”
Externally, the extension is rendered in an earthy clay hue, complemented by expansive full-height openings that invite natural light inward. A distinctive porthole window, outlined in vibrant ultramarine blue, punctuates the façade—serving as a visual anchor and focal point.
Inside, the designers continue the bold use of blue, lining the kitchen and dining rooms with light blue cabinetry paired with recycled plastic countertops—a sustainable and durable choice. The clay tiles, utilized in a gridded pattern, run through the interior, creating a cohesive texture palette across the home. A notable feature is a built-in seating nook topped with a semi-circular skylight, bringing in daylight and offering a cozy retreat.
Grayson emphasizes that the home’s material palette weaves rich, textural reds and ochres, grounding the bright, bold blue details and adding warmth and depth to the spaces. The ultramarine accents aren’t just decorative—they serve as visual markers that highlight and unify different zones, guiding occupants naturally through the house.
Connecting the rear extension with the upstairs snug is a steel-framed opening, which the architects envisioned as a centerpiece for the home. Boxy windows wrap around this space, with one side framing the staircase—a clever design choice that visually links different levels while brightening the entire area. Grayson explains that these punched blue openings effectively addressed the previous disconnection between spaces, creating a more fluid and vibrant home environment.
Upstairs, the bedrooms retain their private functions, with a standout update being a bathroom decorated entirely in pink tiles—a playful yet stylish touch.
This project by Nimtim Architects is just one of many recent London renovations showcased on Dezeen, which include a mystical, grounding townhouse refurbishment by CAN, and a timber-framed extension by James Alder Architects. Each project highlights how thoughtful design breathes new life into existing homes, blending aesthetic appeal with functional ingenuity.
And this is the part most people miss: the power of color and material choices to influence how a space is experienced—not just seen. Do you think bold hues like ultramarine blue are essential for creating meaningful visual connections within homes, or are they merely trendy? Share your opinions below—your perspective could challenge conventional notions of subtlety versus statement-making in architecture.
