ASPECT OF LOVE
The spectacular views from an Edwardian terrace in north London inspired two house-hunters to take on a major renovation project
Heather and Thomas Borsje’s search for a new home took much longer than they anticipated. ‘ We centred our search on villagey areas in north London,’ explains Heather. ‘But few of the properties were right for us and, unfortunately, when we did eventually put in an offer on one, we were gazumped.’
So their relief was immense when, after two years, they discovered an Edwardian house ripe for renovation. On looking around it, they were both smitten by its spectacular views, which included the historic Alexandra Palace, standing resplendent on a distant hill.
But a vision of a different nature would clearly be required to turn this unloved property into their dream home. ‘The house had been divided up and used for multi-occupancy so there were lots of small rooms, each with their own sink,’ says Heather. ‘ We realised that, structurally, it would be a major project to turn it back into the family home it
originally must have been.’ So the couple called in Hugh Cullum Architects and plans were subsequently drawn up to remodel the interior layout, plus create a side extension and convert the loft into a master bedroom suite.
While the building work was underway, the pair rented a flat nearby. ‘Our builders, Kiko Construction, were amazing – particularly on one occasion,’ says Heather. ‘After the radiators were installed, we realised they were taking up more wall space than we’d envisaged, so we asked for them all to be removed and underfloor heating installed instead. This was just a few days before the flooring was due to be laid, but the builders pulled out all the stops to do the work in time.’
Shortly after the structural work began, the Borsjes started planning the interior design with the help of designer Caroline Cobbold. ‘She prompted us to look online for ideas, then she created design boards with fabrics and product suggestions based on our feedback,’ says Heather. ‘She was also invaluable for sourcing a wide variety of items.’
‘ With just a few days to go before moving in, we still had to choose wall paint, so we went for rich, bold tones,’ says Heather. ‘Considering how quickly we did it, it works surprisingly well.’ Heather and Thomas are clearly delighted with all the choices they have made, not just for themselves but for their family-to-be, because the couple are expecting twins.
Whether this turns out to be their forever home, only time will tell, but the couple feel justifiably proud of what they have achieved here. ‘Our previous house was only a few miles from here, but with all we’ve done to this place, we actually feel we’ve come a long way,’ says Thomas. ‘Now it’s time to settle down.’