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T2S was asked to create a phased extension of this tired shop building on Mitcham Road, Tooting. 

Comprising two retail units on the ground floor and accommodation on the first and second, the property is yards from the magnificent Tooting Library and the iconic Tooting Granada Cinema, just two of the many architecturally significant buildings nearby.

This project is a fantastic example of refreshing and remodelling a building to improve and extend dwelling space in this busy, historic district of London. Tooting, in common with many other London districts, was first developed as suburbs in the Victorian Era and expanded in Edwardian period. The local context here on Mitcham Road still strongly reflects these origins. This property is Edwardian in origin but has been expanded over time with an unappealing set of dormers and extensions to the rear that will be removed as part of the project.

Now at the planning stage, our carefully crafted design adds mass to the rear and centre of the property to minimise disruption to the existing roofline. The design extends the residential space by a further 70m2 and extensively remodels the interior floor plans to integrate them with the extension. The plans add several openings to admit more light, and amenities for residents in the form of balconies. Better access to the side of the property has been created through an entrance designed to echo the neighbouring terraced properties and their bay windows, borrowing features like the entrance canopy, banding, and a low wall for continuity.

The extension of the building will be completed in red brick to match the existing building, with black, powder-coated window frames and architectural metal in the form of balustrades and exterior staircases. These choices create a clean visual division between the old and the new while remaining respectful of the materials used in the surrounding vernacular.

The project has also been designed to minimise disruption to the businesses operating on the ground floor, which will remain open while the upper floors are remodelled and extended. When complete, the building will comprise two retail units and three modern, well-laid-out apartments - providing much-needed living space in this highly walkable and sought-after area.