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House of EM adds light-filled loggia to north-London home

architecture-design · 2026-05-18

House of EM has finalized the renovation and expansion of Loggia House, a terraced home in Kensal Rise, north London, designed for a family of four. Founded in 2020 by ex-Michaelis Boyd directors Emma Bodie and Matthew Sanders, the studio eliminated impractical U-PVC extensions and introduced a sunken rear addition crafted from prefabricated concrete panels for a tailored appearance. This extension is situated 500mm below the main floor, creating a snug area and a loggia with expansive sliding windows that open to a sheltered outdoor space. Influenced by Scandinavian and Brazilian design, the project pays homage to modernist architects Lina Bo Bardi and Paulo Mendes da Rocha, featuring concrete and timber materials. High ceilings, ample openings, and skylights enhance natural illumination. Additionally, a former bedroom and bathroom on the first floor were merged into a spacious family bathroom, and the ceiling of the rear bedroom was elevated to the eaves. This project represents an innovative interpretation of the conventional London extension.

Key facts

  • House of EM renovated a terraced house in Kensal Rise, north London.
  • The project is named Loggia House.
  • The studio was founded in 2020 by Emma Bodie and Matthew Sanders, former Michaelis Boyd directors.
  • A sunken rear extension was added using prefabricated concrete panels.
  • The extension is lowered 500mm below the main floor.
  • The loggia features large sliding windows that retract to create a covered outdoor area.
  • Design references include Lina Bo Bardi and Paulo Mendes da Rocha.
  • Material palette centers on concrete and timber.

Entities

Artists

  • Emma Bodie
  • Matthew Sanders
  • Lina Bo Bardi
  • Paulo Mendes da Rocha

Institutions

  • House of EM
  • Michaelis Boyd
  • Dezeen

Locations

  • Kensal Rise
  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Cotswolds
  • New York City

Sources