A faithful conversion

Anastasya Martynova has converted a neglected Edwardian chapel, adding a mezzanine and roof terrace to create a peaceful home filled with her own heavenly artworks

-  Debbie Jeffery

HOMEOWNER Anastasya Martynova

LOCATION Deptford, south London

PROJECT Conversion and extension of a former chapel

SIZE 148m²

BUILD TIME 9 months (Aug 2017-April 2018)

PLOT/HOUSE COST £700,000

BUILD COST £450,000

VALUE £1.5million

As an artist, carver and gilder, Anastasya Martynova is passionate about materials, and her eye for detail is evident throughout the unique chapel she converted as a London home. The semi-detached brick building was previously a Kingdom Hall, which was being used as a bohemian art studio with a makeshift bedroom in one corner.

A BUILDING IN POOR REPAIR

"My friend owned the chapel, but was moving to Italy, and we both simultaneously had the idea that perhaps I could buy it from him," recalls Anastasya, who had been living 15 minutes away in a three-bedroom flat situated on a main road, and was looking for a larger, quieter space.