Heaver Estate, London
Heaver Estate, London
Late Victorian Terrace House
The property
The property forms part of the Heaver Estate in Wandsworth, developed by Alfred Heaver between c.1890 and 1910 in the Queen Anne style. One of South London’s most significant late Victorian residential estates, it is characterised by warm red brick construction, decorative brickwork, timber sash windows with patterned glazing, and strong architectural consistency throughout.
This late Victorian terrace formed part of a highly cohesive historic streetscape, defined by red brick architecture, decorative detailing, and a strong sense of architectural continuity.
The property had undergone a series of alterations over time, including an unsuitable rear addition that compromised both the function of the house and its architectural relationship with the original building.
Late Victorian (c.1890–1910)
2012–2014
Publication
Featured in The Times Magazine — 19 April 2014
AHKO Role
AHKO acted as Client Representative throughout the programme, working closely alongside the client — an interior designer by profession — whose knowledge and vision shaped the interior whilst AHKO ensured the conservation and building works were delivered to the same standard.
WHERE IT BEGAN
The challenge
The project required a careful balance between conservation and contemporary intervention.
The existing rear extension was no longer fit for purpose and required complete removal. At the same time, the property demanded a full modernisation programme, including new building services, structural improvements, and internal reconfiguration, all while respecting the conservation area setting and preserving the character of the original Victorian house.
REAR EXTENSION
Contemporary living, rooted in historic fabric
The existing rear addition was demolished and replaced with a new contemporary extension designed to integrate seamlessly with the original Victorian structure.
The new accommodation transformed the relationship between house and garden, introducing light-filled living spaces while maintaining the hierarchy and character of the historic building.
When the existing rear extension was removed, the opportunity arose to replace it with something that genuinely belonged. Rather than introducing a contrasting contemporary structure, the new extension was designed with close reference to what Heaver’s own architects might have built had they been working today — warm red stock brick, gauged arches, lime mortar, and proportions drawn directly from the original building. The result sits within the Heaver Estate as if it were always there.
before
Unsympathetic rear addition and poor connection to the garden
AFTER
Contemporary extension integrated with the original Victorian structure.
during
Internal reconfiguration underway, with the new extension and principal living spaces beginning to take shape.
AFTER
Open, light-filled spaces designed for modern family living.
BRICKWORK & MASONRY
Traditional materials, authentic detailing
A conservation-led approach was applied throughout the external envelope.
Reclaimed London stock bricks were carefully selected to match the original building, while gauged red brick arches and lime mortar repointing ensured that new masonry blended naturally with the historic fabric.
The result is an extension that feels entirely at home within its Victorian setting.
Modern performance behind historic walls
A complete new mechanical and electrical installation was introduced throughout the property.
The infrastructure was carefully integrated to support modern living while minimising impact on the original fabric, ensuring the house could meet contemporary standards without compromising its historic character.
The quality of the completed project was recognised through publication in The Times Magazine on 19 April 2014.
AHKO’S ROLE
Client Representation
Adam Harasimowicz acted as Client Representative throughout the programme.
AHKO coordinated specialist trades, contractors, suppliers, and consultants while maintaining a single conservation-led vision from demolition and structural works through to final completion.
THE OUTCOME
Every original feature conserved. Every lost element faithfully replaced
The completed house successfully combines Victorian character with contemporary living.
Historic features were preserved and enhanced, inappropriate alterations removed, and a new extension introduced that respects the architectural integrity of the original building while transforming the way the property functions for modern life.
CONTACT
Historic buildings require informed decisions
Whether commissioning a Property Health Check, appointing AHKO as your Client Representative, or seeking trusted specialist recommendations through The Circle, every enquiry begins with a direct conversation.