STYLE HOME
SUSTAINABILITY RULES IN SHARON LEE’S ECO-FRIENDLY HOME WHERE, DESPITE THE MINIMALIST VIBE, COMFORT AND BEAUTIFUL DESIGN ARE KEY
FEATURE AND STYLING MARY WEAVER, UPDATED BY RACHEL CHRISTIE
HOME NOTES
WHO LIVES HERE?
Sharon Lee, a trainee psychotherapist, and Lucas Dussurget, an IT executive, live here with their cat, Archie.
THE PROPERTY
A three-storey Victorian semi-detached house in south-east London.
1 “Wood adds a warm glow”
‘When it came to the nuts and bolts of this house, sustainability and natural materials were essential. Douglas fir from viable forests in Wales forms the exposed timber structure of the kitchen extension and much of the joinery. Its warmth gives a lovely rosy glow. Breathable lime plaster walls, insulated with sustainable wood fibre panels, have a soft texture in the changing light.’
HIDDEN STORAGE
The built-in bench provides extra seating and plenty of storage space underneath
2 “We focused on natural light”
‘The eco-friendly rear extension was built to maximise the natural light coming in throughout the day. We love the idea that sustainability is no longer synonymous with hippy-dippy. Building well with green materials and techniques can create a home with longevity and it shows that eco can be about cool, contemporary design – not earnest or dull!’
TUCKED AWAY
Lots of lighting over the island was a must so the extractor is embedded in the hob
3 “Dark cabinets give contrast”
‘We lived in this house and got to know how the light travels before making any changes. Our brief to Emil Eve architects was for a generous entertaining space with lots of storage and natural light. The double cupboard hides everyday items such as the toaster and coffee maker, keeping worktops clear. We chose dark cabinetry to ground all the pale wood.’
KEEPING COOL
With lots of glass, this extension can get very hot so air con has been hidden in a large cupboard
3 “Olive walls feel like a hug”
‘The living room, created from two receptions knocked into one, is cosy with comfy seating, a log burner and a piano. The green wall was inspired by a forest view from an inn in Japan, which gave a sense of wellbeing and peace. We tend to use this room in the evenings to relax and put the TV on
