“Architecture cannot be totally explained but must be experienced. It should play to all the senses – the smell of vegetation after rain, the sound of birds, and the wind in trees” – Geoffrey Bawa

Neil Dusheiko Architects’ House of the Elements is an extraordinary transformation of a Victorian terraced house in the heart of London. The project embodies a profound commitment to well-being, sustainability, and a harmonious connection with the natural world.

Initially constructed in the late 19th century, the house maintains its traditional front reception room yet has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. The homeowners envisioned a sanctuary that prioritised their well-being and provided inspiring spaces for both work and relaxation.

In response, we embarked on a journey of architectural innovation, introducing full-height voids and light wells that infuse the interiors with natural light, creating an atmosphere of calm expansiveness. One of the project’s features is a bespoke artwork by Soda that ascends through a three-story void, crafting an interplay of light and shadow, complemented by a double-height, vibrant green living wall.

The fusion of nature within the home is seamless. Expansive windows frame captivating views of the lush garden, while the double-height green wall breathes life into the living space. A rainwater harvesting system sustains this green oasis, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability. In the private quarters, stillness reigns, with serene bedrooms and bathrooms adorned in cool, earthy tones that harmonise with the infusion of natural light and timber accents.

Sustainability is at the heart of this design, with passive ventilation, rainwater harvesting, and a carbon-neutral green wall powered by solar energy, leading the way towards an eco-conscious lifestyle.

House of the Elements is a spa-like retreat that celebrates the connection between humans and the natural world. It redefines urban living by seamlessly intertwining nature. It stands as a haven for the senses, where every element of the design beckons residents to connect with the rhythms of the natural world, forging a distinctive and tranquil living environment.

The architecture embodies our phenomenological approach, elevating the human experience through meticulous attention to materials, light, sound, and spatial design. The result is a living masterpiece, ever-evolving, where the beauty of life’s unpredictability is celebrated.

“House of the Elements” explores the concept of space as a living entity, where time is measured not only by human presence but also by the growth and nurturing of plants. Even in the absence of its human inhabitants, the house breathes life, embodying the cycles of growth, decay, and renewal.”