In Ealing, this Grade II listed Queen Anne house was reimagined for a British-American couple and their three young children. Home to an art collection and inherited antiques, it needed a vision that could hold its heritage and a busy family life at once — without becoming a museum piece.

Light led every decision. In place of a grid of downlights, layered chandeliers, pendants, picture lights and sconces let the original proportions breathe. Widened openings draw the eye from the front door through to the garden, while a relocated kitchen and a new garden room bring daylight into the heart of the house. Materials chosen to age well support the guiding principle throughout: nothing should feel too precious to be used.