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Tag: renovation

Regent’s Park Grade I Listed Renovation

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High-End Internal Fit Out by Harris Calnan

The team here at Harris Calnan have successfully completed a high-end renovation of a Grade I listed property in Regent’s Park, delivering a full internal fit out with exceptional attention to detail throughout.

Working within one of London’s most prestigious and historically significant locations, this project required a careful balance between preserving original character and introducing a refined, modern finish suitable for contemporary living.

A Complete Internal Transformation in Regent’s Park

This project involved a full internal fit out across the entire property, reconfiguring and upgrading the interior to meet the highest standards.

Every space has been thoughtfully executed to enhance both functionality and flow. From the initial strip out through to final finishes, the focus remained on quality, precision, and consistency.

The result is a home that feels cohesive throughout, with each room complementing the next while maintaining its own identity.

Working Within a Grade I Listed Property

Carrying out works within a Grade I listed building presents a unique set of challenges. Every decision must respect the architectural significance of the property.

Our team worked closely with the appointed architects, Flower Michelin Architects, to ensure all elements aligned with heritage requirements while still achieving a high-end finish. This approach allowed us to retain key period features such as original cornicing, fireplaces and proportions, while upgrading the property to modern standards behind the scenes. The interiors showcase a consistent level of craftsmanship across every space.

Key features include:

  • Bespoke joinery integrated seamlessly into living areas and bedrooms
  • Natural stone surfaces across bathrooms and kitchen spaces
  • Carefully selected lighting to enhance both mood and functionality
  • A neutral material palette that allows textures and detailing to stand out

The bathrooms feature freestanding baths, marble finishes and clean detailing, creating calm and refined spaces. Living areas combine darker tones with softer furnishings, adding depth and contrast while maintaining a cohesive overall feel.

While the property retains its historic character, the layout and finishes have been tailored for modern day use. Open, connected living spaces improve usability, while bespoke storage solutions maximise practicality without compromising on design. Natural light plays a key role throughout the property, with large windows and considered layouts helping to create bright, welcoming interiors.

Collaborative Approach to Delivery

This project was delivered in collaboration with Flower Michelin Architects & White & Lloyd. Working closely with both teams ensured a smooth process from concept through to completion. Clear communication and coordination allowed every detail to be executed to the highest standard.

Looking to Start a High-End Renovation Project?

If you are planning a high-end renovation or listed property refurbishment in London, Harris Calnan can support you from concept through to completion.

Explore our full range of services or get in touch with the team to discuss your project.

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Hosting Architecture for London at our St John’s Wood project

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A key milestone marked with a full team site walkthrough as the structure begins to emerge

Our team was pleased to host the team from Architecture for London at our ongoing site in St John’s Wood. The team joined us for a detailed walkthrough of the project’s progress. With everyone arriving bright and early, it was a great opportunity to bring together the wider project team. Together, we were able to share a closer look at the work completed to date.

The visit came at a significant stage in the build, with the basement now fully excavated following several months of complex groundworks. Delivered in collaboration with Malci and Quorum Consulting Engineers, this phase has been a major part of the programme, and seeing the scale of the excavation in person really emphasised the level of coordination and precision involved.

With the structural design by Richard Tant Associates now beginning to take shape on site, the early form of the new home is becoming visible. Walking the team through this stage alongside our clients created a real sense of momentum, marking a turning point in the project as it transitions from groundworks into the build phase. It felt like a milestone moment, similar to a topping out, just experienced in reverse.

Architecture For London On Site:

Moments like this highlight the importance of collaboration across the full project team. Bringing architects, engineers, contractors and clients together on site not only reinforces the shared vision for the project, but also provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on progress and align on the next stages.

With the sun out and strong progress being made, it was a great reminder of why the work behind the scenes matters. We look forward to continuing to share updates as this exciting project develops further.

To see more of our work, visit our projects page and stay tuned for further updates as this build continues to progress.

Understanding the Complexities of High-End Refurbishments

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The Realities Behind Luxury Renovation Projects

High-end refurbishments often appear seamless once complete. Refined finishes and carefully resolved spaces rarely reveal the complexity behind them. In practice, these schemes demand extensive coordination, technical understanding and adaptability throughout the project lifecycle.

Working within an existing structure presents one of the most significant challenges. Buildings often evolve through decades of alteration, repair and extension. Teams must investigate thoroughly to understand constraints before major works begin. Early surveys and exploratory opening-up works help establish reliable information and reduce uncertainty during delivery.

These early stages form the foundation of many High-End Renovation Projects, where informed decision-making supports both programme stability and quality outcomes.

Successful renovation also relies on close collaboration across disciplines. Architects, engineers, specialist subcontractors and suppliers must operate in alignment while works progress on site. This collaborative approach reflects industry guidance from organisations such as RIBA, which emphasises integrated project teams in complex building environments.

Sequencing plays a central role in refurbishment delivery. Structural alterations, temporary works and enabling packages often occur long before visible transformation takes place. Teams must plan these stages carefully to protect retained fabric while creating safe conditions for subsequent construction activity. On constrained urban sites, this coordination becomes even more critical.

This structured approach is evident across projects such as the Tottenham Heritage Restoration Project, where phased structural works enabled new interventions while safeguarding historic elements.

As construction progresses, balancing design intent with buildability becomes an ongoing process. Existing structures rarely offer perfect tolerances. Material junctions and bespoke detailing therefore require continuous refinement. Close dialogue between design and construction teams supports practical solutions that maintain the architectural vision.

Renovation projects also involve a degree of discovery. Opening up existing fabric can reveal unforeseen structural conditions or legacy installations. Project teams must assess these findings quickly and implement appropriate responses. A proactive and solution-focused mindset allows progress to continue without undermining the wider scheme objectives.

Guidance from bodies such as CIOB, highlights the importance of risk management and professional judgement when delivering complex construction projects within existing buildings.

Ultimately, high-end renovation projects represent a coordinated effort shaped by investigation, planning and collaboration. The finished environment may convey simplicity and calm, yet it sits upon a layered process that brings together expertise from multiple disciplines. Through this approach, existing buildings can evolve to meet contemporary requirements while retaining the character that defines them.

Ealing Residential Redevelopment – Project Progress Update

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Basement and Roof Milestones Mark Major Progress on this Complex Ealing Redevelopment

Works are continuing at pace on our major residential redevelopment project in Ealing, with significant milestones now reached both above and below ground.

This carefully planned scheme involves the full strip-out of the existing house and the construction of a new basement beneath the original footprint. Additionally, we will complete a rear extension, extensive structural alterations and a complete high-end internal fit out. Alongside the architectural transformation, the project has been designed with a strong focus on low-carbon performance and long-term energy efficiency.

Basement Structure Nearing Completion

One of the most complex phases of the build is now approaching completion, with the new basement structure largely formed beneath the existing property. We have carried out extensive structural works to safely create the additional level, providing valuable new living space while maintaining the integrity of the original house above.

A standout feature at this stage is the bespoke staircase which now links the basement seamlessly to the rest of the home. Designed as both a functional and architectural element, the staircase integrates seamlessly into the structure and plays a key role in how the new spaces connect and flow once the project is complete.

New Roof Structure In Place

Above ground, the project has reached another major milestone with the new roof structure now installed. The framing is complete and clearly defines the updated form of the house, marking a visible step forward in the transformation of the property.

With the roof structure in place, the building is beginning to take its final shape, allowing the project to move confidently into the next stages of construction and internal works.

With the roof structure now established, the building envelope is beginning to close in, providing a clear platform for the next phases of the programme. This stage allows greater coordination of follow-on trades and supports the smooth transition into weatherproofing, services installation and internal fit out as the project continues to progress.

Sustainable Systems and High-End Finish

Sustainability is a core part of this redevelopment. The house will benefit from a ground source heat pump and a low-carbon, high-efficiency design approach throughout. This will support long-term energy performance without compromising on comfort or quality.

As the structural phases conclude, focus will continue to shift towards the high-end fit out, where detailing, materials and craftsmanship will define the finished home.

Collaborative Delivery

This project is being delivered in collaboration with Beasley Dickson Architects, whose considered design has guided the transformation of the property. Additionally, Foster Structures have supported the complex structural requirements of both the basement and superstructure works.

To see more of our recently completed projects with a similar scope, please click here.

Why Choosing the Right Principal Contractor Defines Your Renovation Outcome

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When you invest in a high end renovation you are not just choosing new materials or layouts, you are choosing the team who will bring your vision to life. The quality of your principal contractor defines how smoothly your build runs, how well the design is protected and how exceptional the final finish will be.

Understanding the Role of the Principal Contractor

A principal contractor is the central link between the design stage and the physical build. Their responsibility is to keep every moving part aligned so the project progresses with confidence and clarity. For homeowners this often means far more than people realise.

A strong principal contractor will:

  • Coordinate architects, designers, engineers and specialist trades
  • Manage timelines and budgets with accuracy and transparency
  • Oversee quality control at every phase of the build
  • Maintain safety, compliance and clear communication
  • Protect the design intent so the final home reflects the vision agreed at the outset
  • Anticipate challenges before they disrupt progress

For more information about a principal contractor’s responsibilities, click here.

How Harris Calnan Safeguard Quality

Every renovation carries its own challenges. At Harris Calnan we take pride in delivering work that balances architectural ambition with technical precision.

Our long-standing relationships with skilled subcontractors ensure consistency from the first day on site to the final handover. Our team understand the importance of detail whether that is structural accuracy, specialist materials or bespoke elements crafted to fit the design perfectly.

We keep clients informed through every stage of a project and work closely with architects and designers so the vision remains intact throughout the build.

For information about how we work, click here.

Examples of Coordinated Craftsmanship

Many of the projects we deliver involve complex reconfigurations, heritage structures and high performance building systems. In recent renovations we have managed everything from full structural changes to complete interior rebuilds where bespoke joinery, mechanical systems and refined finishes had to work together seamlessly.

Our role as principal contractor is to ensure that every contributor to the project is aligned and that the quality remains consistent from groundwork to decoration.

Advice for homeowners choosing a principal contractor

Selecting the right principal contractor can feel daunting but there are simple steps that help you make an informed choice.

You should consider:

  • How transparent the contractor is with programme and budget
  • Whether they can demonstrate quality through past work
  • How they communicate changes or technical issues
  • Their experience with the level of finish you expect
  • How early they recommend being involved in the design process

Early contractor involvement can resolve technical challenges before construction begins which improves efficiency and supports the intended design outcome.

Building Your Home With Confidence

A high end renovation demands a principal contractor who brings skill, care and coordination to every stage of the build. At Harris Calnan we combine technical expertise with a commitment to craftsmanship so each project is delivered to the standard clients expect.

If you are planning a renovation and would like to discuss how our team can support your vision we would be pleased to hear from you.

Project Walkthrough: St John’s Wood, Low Carbon Renovation

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We are pleased to share a video walkthrough of the early stages of our latest St John’s Wood renovation, delivered in collaboration with Architecture for London. Click on the video to learn more about this fantastic project.

The walkthrough shows the substantial temporary works now in place. We’ve installed steels and supports to extend the ground floor and secure the structure. This careful preparation allows excavation of the new basement to begin safely and efficiently.

This renovation will transform the existing house with a full strip out, a lowered and extended basement, and a high end fit out. Every stage of the build is guided by a low carbon, high efficiency approach, ensuring the finished home will be both elegant and sustainable.

Although the project is still at an early stage, the walkthrough highlights the scale of the work involved and the precision required. It offers an inside look at how complex residential projects are carefully managed from the very start.

We will continue to share updates as the project develops, giving further insight into each stage of this St John’s Wood renovation.

To see some of our finished finished projects, click here.

foundation works for substantial basement structure
work in progress

Collaboration at the Heart of Tottenham’s Heritage Restoration

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At Tottenham High Road, our heritage restoration of the Grade II* listed buildings continues to progress with care and precision. These historic properties, dating back to 1725, demand not only technical expertise but also collaboration across multiple disciplines.

Specialists work together at every stage of this project to ensure the right balance between restoration and modern use.. From heritage conservation experts to the architects leading the design, each partner plays a crucial role in safeguarding the history of these buildings while shaping their future.

In a recent walkthrough, conservation specialist Nathan Goss shared how every decision is taken with sensitivity to the fabric of the buildings. From carefully repairing historic lime plaster ceilings to reinstating centuries-old timber, his expertise ensures that original details are preserved wherever possible.

The architectural team, F3 Architects, also highlighted the delicate balance required to merge historic character with contemporary interventions. With new basement spaces and a planned ground floor extension set to introduce a café and gallery, their design approach respects the heritage context while preparing the buildings for new community use.

By working closely together, the project team is ensuring that the historic significance of these landmark properties is not only protected but enhanced for future generations.

To learn more about this fantastic heritage restoration project, click here.

Luxury Residential Transformation, Ealing

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At Harris Calnan, we are currently delivering a full residential transformation of a private property on Carlton Road, Ealing, working closely with Beasley Dickson Architects and Foster Structures. This ambitious scheme brings together our expertise in complex construction with a strong design vision, creating a contemporary home finished to the highest specification.

The works include a complete strip-out of the existing house, the formation of a new basement beneath the original footprint, a rear extension, and a new roof structure with coverings. We will complete the property with high-end finished throughout, all designed with an emphasis on low-carbon, high-efficiency performance supported by a ground source heat pump.

On site, we are pleased to be collaborating with Malci Construction who are progressing the basement works, AGA Scaffolding who have delivered the elaborate temporary works, and Maralb Construction who have completed the roof strip ready for inspection. Recent site meetings with the wider project team have allowed us to review progress in detail and carefully coordinate the next stages of the build.

From light-filled new spaces to a bespoke basement designed for modern family life, the property will not only reflect architectural excellence but also provide a comfortable, sustainable and future-ready home for years to come.

This project is a prime example of how we bring together skilled craftsmanship, collaborative working, and sustainable design solutions. Once complete, this residential transformation will combine architectural elegance with modern energy-efficient performance, reflecting both the ambition of the client and the expertise of the team.

See the gallery below to see some of the work in progress and if you’d like to see more of our recently completed projects, click here.

Progress Update: High End Renovation, Islington

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Work continues to move forward at pace on our high-end renovation and basement extension project in Islington, where we’re delivering a complete transformation at 6 Highbury Hill.

Designed in collaboration with Cousins & Cousins Architects, this project includes a full strip-out of the existing property, a lowered and extended basement, and a high-end fit-out throughout. With Stuart Eley as Quantity Surveyor and Constructure as structural engineers, the team is pushing ahead with both care and precision.

Following recent progress on the basement shell, our in-house team has worked closely with Newton Waterproofing to ensure a robust waterproofing system is in place, ready for the installation of a polished concrete floor by Lazenby.

Externally, we’re restoring the original façade using a careful blend of new and traditional techniques, while above, the new roof is progressing well under full temporary cover.

A recent walk-around with the client and our site manager Brian provided a chance to review the ongoing work across every level of the home. With refurbished internals taking shape and the project moving into the next phase, this one is shaping up to be a standout example of collaboration and craftsmanship.

Most recently, we’ve also had the pleasure of working alongside Capital Rewire and Ember Lighting, who are supporting the next stage of internal works. This follows a visit from Estimus London, who installed the new slimline double glazed timber sash windows, now in place across the rear elevation.

Check out some of fantastic work in progress shots below to see the size of the incredible new basement space. We look forward to sharing more as the project develops.

To see more of our most recent work, please see our news page, and for completed projects and other high end renovations, check them out here.

Project Showcase: Luxury Renovation

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Carlton Hill: A Luxury Renovation in St John’s Wood

Harris Calnan is proud to unveil the completion of a landmark project in St John’s Wood, a large-scale luxury renovation and basement conversion that showcases the very best of high-end residential construction.

Working alongside M W Architects and The Millbridge Group, this exceptional transformation involved retaining the original façade while completely rebuilding the structure behind, including the addition of a newly constructed basement.

The result is a home that seamlessly balances timeless architectural character with contemporary luxury. From the carefully curated materials to the uncompromising level of craftsmanship throughout, every detail reflects the quality and precision that Harris Calnan is known for.

The original façade of this period property was sensitively retained, preserving its heritage presence, while the entire structure behind was meticulously rebuilt. A newly excavated basement was added to increase living space and functionality without compromising on proportion or flow.

Inside, the property reveals a sophisticated and carefully curated interior palette. The formal sitting room is a masterclass in balance; fluted joinery and integrated lighting frame the bespoke marble fireplace, while soft furnishings in muted tones bring warmth and texture. Full-height Crittall-style doors lead from the hallway into the space, maintaining an open feel while providing elegant separation.

Carlton Hill reflects the collaborative expertise of an exceptional team, including those mentioned above but also Pringuer James, Blackburn & Co, Malci Construction, Maralb Construction, Haddonstone Ltd, Marble Bros, The Blacksmiths Shop, Calin Metals, CMD Bespoke, LDN Leadwork, Glazing Vision, VELUX, IQ Glass, Perla Windows, Domus Tiles, Salisbury Joinery and the Norden Group.

To discuss your upcoming project with us, contact our team:
📞 020 8968 8877
📧 [email protected]

Photos by Adam Letch Photography

To see more from this stunning project, check out our Projects Page.