Twelve Arches
Kensal Rise Architect | Residential Renovation in North West London
This Kensal Rise residential renovation by RISE Design Studio, architects in North West London, transforms a traditional family home into a low-energy, design-led sanctuary. Located in Queen’s Park / Kensal Rise (NW6), the project demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can reimagine suburban living through light, materiality and spatial flow.
Client: Private
Location: Queen’s Park / Kensal Rise, London NW6
Local Authority: Brent Council
Plot Type: Suburban
Project Type: Residential – Single Family Home
Internal Area (GIA): 230 sqm
Located in a tranquil London suburb is an ambitious renovation project that breathes new life into a traditional family home. Named "Twelve Arches" for its striking architectural features, this transformation redefines modern living while paying homage to diverse global influences.
Located on a leafy residential street, the reimagined dwelling harmoniously blends exposed materials – steel, wood, concrete, and brick – to create a grounded treehouse aesthetic. The design ingeniously incorporates a central courtyard, flooding the interiors with natural light and seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. Arched doorways and windows, inspired by Arab architecture, add a touch of elegance throughout.
Distinguishing elements include a double-height side extension, housing a dramatic floating staircase, and a master bedroom wing complete with dual en-suite bathrooms and a walk-in wardrobe. The renovation extends into the eaves, cleverly utilising space for a luxurious guest suite and home gym. A sunken living room adds depth to the open-plan layout, while multiple balconies and elevated walkways enhance the treehouse concept.
Alongside the expertly curated material palette, the project boasts a small swimming pool that acts as a serene focal point, linking the rear of the house to the lush garden beyond. This thoughtful design, melding minimalism with rainforest-inspired elements, creates a unique sanctuary for its inhabitants – a space where global influences converge in perfect harmony.
"We'd been talking about this project for years - we just didn't know it could look like this. When we first saw the courtyard design, we honestly didn't believe it was our house. Now the kids practically live in the space between inside and out. The light, the stairs, the way it all connects - it doesn't feel like a renovation. It feels like a completely different way of living."
Client
Twelve Arches
