Smart Internal Renovation That Improved Space Without Extension

Project Overview

This project at 29 Churchill Gardens, West Acton, involved a full internal remodelling and renovation to improve the layout, circulation, and usable space within the house's existing footprint. The property had an inefficient internal arrangement and limited functional flow. The goal was not to extend the building, but to reorganise the interior so the same floor area could work much better for daily living.

The Refresh Renovations consultant Ali Irteza and his team handled the full process, including design coordination, structural alterations, staircase installation, partition wall construction, and finishing works. A major feature of the renovation was the creation of a new staircase from the first floor to the loft, along with supporting structural and layout changes to integrate it properly into the home.

The project focused on practical improvements, compliance, safety, and long-term durability, while keeping the design clean and functional.

Design & Planning

The renovation was design-and-build-led and fully managed by the Refresh Team. From the start, the client wanted to maximise usable space without extending the property. The solution was to rework the interior layout and introduce new structural elements to improve the house's functionality.

The initial working budget was £30,000, based on visible site conditions and expected labour and material costs. Plans were developed around efficient internal reconfiguration rather than structural expansion.

A key design task was identifying the correct position and configuration for a new staircase connecting the first floor to the loft. It required detailed measurement, head-height checks, and compliance planning. The team assessed multiple options before selecting a layout that balanced safety, space efficiency, and room usability.

New partition walls were also included in the design to help define circulation zones and improve room proportions around the new stair opening.

No council consent was required for this project.

Scope of Work

Ali and his team delivered all works with coordinated trades. The scope included:

• Internal strip-out and preparation
• Controlled structural opening between floors
• New staircase installation from the first floor to the loft
• Structural supports added where required
• New partition wall construction
• Internal wall framing and insulation
• Plasterboard and plastering works
• Electrical adjustments linked to layout changes
• Decorating and finishing works
• Making good to surrounding walls and ceilings

Trades involved included:

• Carpenter
• Plumber
• Painter
• Decorator

The staircase installation included framing, fitting, guarding, and finishing, with full attention to safety and compliance with building regulations.

Timeline & Budget

The original planned timeline was approximately 4 weeks based on the agreed scope and standard sequencing of works. The build followed a structured order:

1. Site setup and strip-out
2. Structural and first-fix works
3. Stair opening and installation
4. Partition wall construction
5. Second-fix and finishing stages

The timeline was extended slightly due to additional remedial works discovered after opening certain areas and mid-project specification upgrades approved by the client. Some materials also had longer lead times, requiring resequencing tasks to avoid delays.

The final project cost was £35,000. The increase from the £30,000 working budget came from:

• Hidden remedial works discovered after strip-out
• Structural repairs are required to meet standards
• Client-approved finish and fixture upgrades
• Layout refinements around the staircase area
• Material price and lead-time changes

All variations were discussed and approved before being carried out.

Challenges & Solutions

The main challenge was integrating the new staircase without damaging the usability of the surrounding landing and bedroom areas. Once on-site measurements and structural checks were completed, the original staircase position had to be revised because it would have created poor circulation and awkward room layouts.

The Refresh team adjusted the stair design and repositioned partition walls to improve head height, movement flow, and room proportions. It required updated framing, layout changes, and trade coordination, but resulted in a far more functional solution.

Additional structural strengthening was also required once the floor was opened. Additional supports were installed and inspected to ensure safety and compliance.

Because the work was carried out inside an existing home, dust control, safety measures, and careful sequencing were maintained throughout.

Results & Key Feature

The standout feature of this renovation is the new staircase and its integration with the partition wall. Instead of being treated as just a functional addition, it became the main design element that reorganised how the space works.

The staircase now acts as a clean vertical connector between levels, while the partition wall helps define areas and improve flow. Previously underused zones are now practical and well-structured.

The updated layout feels clearer, more efficient, and easier to use day-to-day, all achieved without extending the building footprint.

Client Feedback 

The client shared that they strongly recommend the service. They noted that the project manager was responsive, sincere and offered multiple options throughout the process. Even when plans changed several times, each request was handled quickly. They were pleased that the house now feels more family-friendly and has improved visually.