Arch House is a minimalist home located in London, United Kingdom, designed by Polysmiths. Designed for a young professional couple with British and Gibraltar roots, the project seamlessly blends spaces for work, relaxation, and social gatherings, all accomplished within a limited budget and timeframe. The homeowners sought a complete refresh of their three-bedroom home, which had not been updated since the 1980s, to better support their professional and personal lives. Central to this vision was connecting the home’s interior with its west-facing garden, enhancing natural light in narrow spaces and creating a sanctuary for gatherings and quiet retreats.

Polysmiths responded by designing an extension that incorporates brightness, warmth, and flexibility into the home’s layout. Working within Permitted Development Rights, Polysmiths devised an extension that respects the building’s original character, using arched glazing and consistent exterior materials. A Certificate of Lawfulness streamlined the project, ensuring regulatory compliance and smooth progress. Polysmiths employed structural blockwork arches to open up the rear rooms, creating a connected, flexible floor plan without the need for costly ground beams. This approach minimized waste and expenses, aligning with the project’s sustainable and budget-conscious goals.

Lime plaster was used for its soft, acoustic-friendly qualities, alongside underfloor-heated tiles and walnut joinery, lending warmth to the interior. A semi-circular skylight, referred to as the “oculus,” brings natural light across the home throughout the day. The savings from this simplified material palette allowed the owners to invest in a striking red travertine stone kitchen island, a dramatic focal point with its vivid color and rich veining. The garden acts as an extension of the indoor living room, with a spacious brick patio that seamlessly connects interior and exterior spaces. Mediterranean-inspired landscaping features olive and fruit trees, along with drought-resistant plants like lavender and rosemary, transforming the garden into a peaceful retreat.