Pushing boundaries

RICHARD USED HIS OWN HOME AS A TRIAL FOR HIS ARCHITECTURAL IDEAS WITH STRIKING AND IMAGINATIVE RESULTS

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For even the most DIY-savvy, building an extension by yourself is a step too far — unless you're Richard and Kristina Andrews. The couple bought their Victorian terrace, then a five-bedroom house of multiple occupancy, with a view to extend and modernise throughout. Taking on the work by themselves was just another layer added to the challenge. Of course, it helps that Richard is an architect. After drawing up plans for the build, he decided that he would see the process through to further his understanding of what makes a project work. “The house originally had three bedrooms, but when we bought it, the two living rooms had been converted into bedrooms, too,’ says Richard. ‘It was in pretty dire straits. We had a budget and knew we might have to get a bit extra further down the line if we didn't want to compromise on finishes.’