From a dim and cramped Victorian building to a contemporary home overflowing with light and fluidity, Light Falls House is a captivating build that poignantly showcases the power of natural light.

FLOW Architecture and Magrits faced many challenges restoring the 1851 four-story building located in the Abingdon Conservation Area in Kensington, London. They not only had to completely revamp the dark and compartmentalised space into a home that would fulfil the owner’s contemporary needs—no easy task on its own— but the dwelling was also subject to numerous planning restrictions thanks to its historical status. Namely, the exterior of the home had to be largely preserved.

With a heavy focus on the core, a new layout was successfully crafted around a centralised interior courtyard that acts as a visual centre. This area is an exceptionally significant part of the rebuild since its two large frameless skylights are critical to the dynamic and airy aesthetic. These skylights not only allow an abundance of natural light to flow through the home, but they also deepen the texture of the slatted wood accents used throughout, highlight the gentle curvature of the design, and enhance the open sculptural staircase that strings together the original four floors, as well as the added basement. Another addition worth noting is the garden and terrace in the back. This personal nature escape can be admired or directly accessed through panoramic sliding doors located in the dining room.

Bringing Nature into Urban Living 

“The result is a strong atmospheric connection with the outdoors, with the sun casting ever-changing hues on the white-washed walls.” - FLOW Architecture

The Light Falls Home effortlessly draws on the power of biophilic design. By utilizing organic shapes, warm wood accents, a smorgasbord of natural textures, and an abundance of natural light, this dwelling is the perfect example of an urban home that effortlessly blurs the lines between inside and out.

If more buildings aimed for this approach, studies show that people exposed to more natural elements within their home or workplace may see an increase in happiness, well-being, and even productivity. Even just exposure to more natural light alone can positively impact your circadian rhythm. Natural light lets your body know the optimal time to produce melatonin, while artificial light has been shown to interfere with this process. In short, being submerged in an environment that utilises natural light can result in feeling more alert during the day and getting a more restorative sleep at night—and who doesn’t need that?!

Images via ArchDaily