Photo by Chris Snook
This is an example of a small classic cloakroom in London with blue walls, ceramic flooring, a pedestal sink, beige floors and white worktops.

This project involved the conversion of a disused water tank into a unique 1-bedroom duplex penthouse in Bethnal Green, East London, located on top of the Grade II* listed Keeling House designed by Sir Denys Lasdun. The main challenge was to transform an empty industrial concrete structure with plywood elements and a leaking roof into a warm, liveable and contemporary London penthouse apartment, while preserving the original industrial character of the space. As a self-build project, the client temporarily relocated within the building during the works, allowing full transformation of the water tank into a functional home. The design approach focused on adaptive reuse and industrial interior design, avoiding a standard “developer-style” finish. Instead, the original character was preserved through the use of exposed services and internally insulated OSB-lined walls and ceilings, ensuring both thermal performance and material continuity. The existing stair core was extended to provide safe access to the water tank level. The end façades were redesigned using high-performance clear and sandblasted glazing within slim aluminium frames, enhancing light quality while maintaining structural lightness. Vertical sandblasted louvres were introduced to ensure privacy while creating a dynamic, Zen-like interplay of natural light throughout the space. The result is a highly distinctive duplex penthouse in East London, offering panoramic views across the London skyline, with sunrise and sunset light transforming the interior throughout the day. The space functions as a true urban retreat, combining industrial authenticity with contemporary living.

Design ideas for a small modern courtyard terrace in London.

The here of the apartment - the spectacular view of the Coral Sea and stretch of beach all the way up to the Noosa National Park. The ever changing hues of the ocean and sky is far more entertaining and relaxing than any Netflix series, that's for certain! This is the owners favourite spot to sit and relax together, and you can see why!

The original addition with sky blue eaves & a bright white exterior makes a chirpy presence int he sunny back yard.
Inspiration for a small nautical back terrace in Sydney with a roof extension.

Before and After of Home Renovation
This is an example of a small modern back terrace in Sydney with a roof extension.

Design ideas for a small contemporary back patio in Sydney with a roof extension.

Project Description: Urban Garden Room for Hugh Pearman and Kate Hobson This charming project, designed for acclaimed architectural correspondent Hugh Pearman, formerly of The Sunday Times, and his wife, plantswoman Kate Hobson, transforms a small, north-facing rooftop terrace into a delightful garden room. With a modest budget, the project presented unique construction and technical challenges that were skillfully navigated to create a functional yet aesthetically pleasing space. The design draws inspiration from found structures commonly seen in allotments, infusing a sense of playfulness and joy into the urban environment. Despite the constraints, the outcome is a thoughtful urban intervention that showcases high design ambition while celebrating nature. The garden room serves as a sanctuary for Kate Hobson, allowing her to cultivate her passion for plants in a serene setting. It effectively balances practicality and creativity, offering an inviting space that enriches the everyday urban experience. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can elevate even the smallest of spaces, making it a standout example of urban gardening and architectural ingenuity. With its innovative use of materials and attention to detail, this garden room not only enhances the quality of life for its inhabitants but also contributes positively to the aesthetic of the surrounding urban landscape.

Rear view of the extension at night.
Photo of a small contemporary back formal garden in London.

Inspiration for a small traditional balcony in Newcastle - Maitland with a roof extension.

Camilla Ropers © Houzz 2017
This is an example of a small midcentury back terrace in Copenhagen with a roof extension.

Photography Credit: Pippa Wilson Photography This modern sitting room, backs onto and is open plan with the family kitchen. It is a modern bold family space decorated in dark teal, with matching skirting and wall hung radiators.

Small and multi-coloured modern bungalow detached house in Perth with concrete fibreboard cladding, a flat roof and a metal roof.

Real Property Photography
Photo of a small contemporary back patio in Brisbane with a roof extension and decking.

Home&Haus Homestaging & Photography | Maite Fragueiro
Design ideas for a small coastal terrace in Other with a roof extension.

Inspiration for a small beach style back veranda in Brisbane with tiled flooring and a roof extension.

Photo of a small contemporary wood straight metal railing staircase in London with concrete risers.

Home&Haus Homestaging & Photography | Maite Fragueiro
Design ideas for a small beach style terrace in Other with a roof extension.

Courtyard - Photo credit: Jono Rotman
Small contemporary courtyard patio in London with an outdoor shower, decking and a roof extension.