Home Style: Labour of Love

Gemma and Justin McCann bought their period house with barely a chance to view it – due to post-pandemic restrictions – but then they got started on an ambitious renovation with a baby on the way...

Respecting the character of a period property whilst being bold enough to make essential changes for today’s lifestyle is a fine balance, but Gemma and Justin McCann have undoubtedly pulled it off with this dramatic renovation.

HOW DID YOU COME TO BUY THIS HOUSE?

“We’d renovated a small semi nearby and were itching to take on another project that would give us more space. We saw this house for sale on a bike ride, but it was during the pandemic and we couldn’t see it in person: we had to rely on the estate agents’ video and description! We were finally allowed one viewing – and then we didn’t waste a moment in making an offer.

“It was very tired inside with a cramped layout downstairs, but we weren’t too fazed. We’d always loved the road, and the classic style ofthe houses: I trusted Justin who had undertaken similar renovations with his building work. His philosophy is: ‘Anything can be changed inside if the bones of a place are good – just make sure the outside has kerb appeal.’ This house ticked all those boxes, so we took a deep breath and went for it; three months later we moved in.”

WHAT WAS YOUR RENOVATION VISION?

“Luckily, we knew exactly what we wanted to achieve, and had pretty much mapped out the new layout before we’d even got the keys! The main idea was to create an open-plan living space right across the back of the house, replacing a narrow galley kitchen and separate dining room, along with a huge, dated conservatory; we used its footprint for the new extension. We also decided to sacrifice some of the adjoining garage’s length to create a new shower room, utility and study.”

WERE THERE CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS?

“It was nine months after we had moved in and I was almost eight months pregnant with our daughter Rosa! We had started on the major renovation work at the back of the house and it was undeniably tough. We were literally living on a building site – we even had a makeshift tap at one point... not ideal when you’re very tired and have a toddler to look after!

“Somehow though, we did it. Justin did so much of the renovation himself and literally worked all hours, although friends and trades people he knew were fantastic and would come to help as much as possible. It was exciting to see the new layout that we’d envisaged take shape so quickly, then plan the décor, knowing we’d soon have the family home we’d dreamed of.”

AND WHAT ABOUT NOW?

“I love the fact that we have given this lovely old house a new lease of life, keeping its original character while incorporating a contemporary addition that works for our lifestyle. I’d recommend open-plan living to anyone – it’s great to all be together, and ideal for entertaining, too. This new space is very much for the family – stylish and practical, but not too precious: and when the kids are in bed, we escape to the quiet, tidy sitting room next door!”