Hackney, East London Architecture
SUNFLOWER HOUSE
A lower-ground reconfiguration and rear extension remodel by Studio Manifest in East London
Located in Hackney, the Victorian terrace is now flooded with natural light, improved flow, and thoughtful detailing
Location: Hackney, East London
Sector: Residential Architects
Works: Internal renovation & rear extension rebuild
Project Value: £100k
Status: Completed 2025
A design-led renovation transforming a Victorian home with light and flow.
Sunflower House sits just off vibrant Victoria Park in Hackney, a neighbourhood celebrated for its cultural diversity and historic architecture. Our design reimagines the lower and ground floors of a mid-19th-century terrace, carefully balancing contemporary living needs with the character of the Victoria Park Conservation Area. Developed in line with Hackney Council’s guidance and neighbouring precedents, the proposals retain the building’s form and fabric while enhancing light, comfort, and flow throughout.
Our approach was driven by the ambition to transform the dark and disconnected basement into a bright, welcoming hub that reflects our clients’ love of cooking and hosting. The damp and outdated rear extension has been rebuilt to the same height and form using like-for-like materials, and now features thin-framed bi-fold doors and a rooflight to flood the space with natural light and open it to the courtyard. The reconfigured plan, improved stair connection, and carefully integrated storage create a sense of openness and calm that makes the home feel both generous and practical.
Externally, window replacements preserve the integrity of the Victorian shopfront façade, while subtle modern interventions such as fluted glazing, improved insulation, and energy-efficient detailing, bring comfort and performance up to contemporary standards. The result is a sensitive renewal that respects the home’s heritage while transforming it into a light-filled, flexible, and sustainable living space.
If you are looking to renovate and modernise your home in East London, please get in touch.
North London Architects: Start Your Project
At Studio Manifest, we have a special affinity for the architectural charm and heritage of North London. Our professional yet approachable team excels in creating spaces that embody the unique character and historical context of the area. From innovative new builds to thoughtful extensions, we're dedicated to designing spaces that are not only visually striking but functional, sustainable, and sensitive to the local environment. Our expertise covers a range of projects, ensuring a personalised approach to each design. Working with Studio Manifest means partnering with a London-based architect who will craft a space that both fits seamlessly into and enhances North London’s varied architectural landscape.