Terrazzo Tiles and an Open Split-Level Living Space in a London Home

Set on a peaceful residential street just north of Clapham Common, this beautiful Victorian terraced house has been completely transformed by leading architecture studio Bureau de Change.

Now known as the Frame House, it’s a stunning example of how traditional homes can be reimagined for modern living. It is full of light, innovative design, and carefully chosen materials.

The architects called the project Frame House because of its clever design, which pushes the boundaries of what’s normally allowed in planning rules. They created the largest possible layout using clean, straight lines that step back gently along the edges of the property.

Inside, the original hallway leads into a large, open-plan ground floor. The space flows across different levels, gently stepping down towards a private walled garden at the back.

The entire ground floor has been fitted with terrazzo tiles. Each area is clearly marked while keeping a modern, open feel. A large skylight above the sitting area brings in natural light, and electric blackout blinds provide shade when needed.

Floor-to-ceiling glass doors at the back open directly onto the garden, with the same terrazzo flooring running outside to connect the spaces beautifully. Raised planting beds along the edges add greenery all year round.

The small garden is a natural extension of the living space. A pivoting glass door opens onto a patio with matching terrazzo flooring and beautifully shaped raised beds. These are filled with olive trees, jasmine, palms, and trailing ivy, creating a green and peaceful outdoor retreat.

At the front of the house, the kitchen sits where it can catch soft morning light through a bay window. Cabinets in a calm, muted colour rise to the ceiling on both sides, offering a modern take on classic shaker style.

In the centre is a curved terrazzo island that doubles as a breakfast bar and a spot for casual meals.

The staircase is a work of art, made from oak and steel, with delicate green terrazzo details in the handrail.

The main bedroom suite stretches across the front of the house. Tall, built-in wardrobes reach the high ceilings, and the rich oak flooring adds warmth.

The en suite bathroom is both stylish and functional, with a freestanding bath, walk-in shower, and double sink made of concrete by Kast. The taps and fittings throughout the house are by Samuel Heath.

Each bathroom in the house has its own personality, marked by different shades of terrazzo.

There are more bedrooms on the half-landings, each with garden views and its own bathroom. Another suite on the upper floor includes a Juliet balcony and built-in wardrobes under the eaves.

The house is listed for £1,975,000 at The Modern House.