Once upon a time there were two Victorian, semi-detached houses. They lived in a conservation area, in a prime location with panoramic views across the Thames Estuary. One was subdivided into two run-down flats, the other had been “modernised losing its soul. Our story is how two became one – a resurrected, detached, and much loved home for Stuart, me and family.

Key players and factors were:

• Planning officers
• Existing tenants
• Architect & builder
• Finances
• Our vision

All were to be harnessed to pull together to create a property both inside and out that is a focal point of interest in our community. Cars & pedestrians still stop and ask questions or pass compliments

The inside of the house is designed to reflect the light and the colours of the outside and maximised the spaciousness of the view. Rooms are large and airy and have a very neutral palette has been used with idea and advice trawled from “Ideal Home” and “Homes & Antiques” magazines. I would like to stress that this has been a very genuine project. We are not professionals – this is our first (and last) project.