--- title: "Using levels to define spaces | Andrew Catto Architects" description: "Full renovation and rear extension on a two storey Edwardian detached house in the West Putney Conservation Area." canonical_url: https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/using-levels-to-define-spaces/ language: en copyright: © 2026 Andrew Catto Architects Limited --- [Back to Portfolio](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/portfolio/) | Home Renovations[Conservation & Heritage](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/portfolio/conservation-heritage/) [Residential Extensions](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/portfolio/residential-extensions/) # Using levels to define spaces Tideswell Road - Putney 2013 Private ![Using levels to define spaces - View 1](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-gallery-3b5593e3-762f-4b35-a0b1-ee0fefdcf2cd-andre-510f0bd5-1760993782942.jpg/putney-architecture-gallery-3b5593e3-762f-4b35-a0b1-ee0fefdcf2cd-andre-510f0bd5-1760993782942_tablet.webp) Use keyboard arrows to navigate ## What's the project? Full renovation and rear extension on a two storey Edwardian detached house in the West Putney Conservation Area. ### Why is this special? Extra tall split level living room for light and direct garden access ### The Challenge The owners wanted to match the roofing and windows details on the previous bay, but not the rickety wooden steps from there to the garden. ### Our Solution By lowering the floor and building right across the back, we could define the use of the spaces and provide extra height, space and light in the new Garden room. ### The Results Fantastic open plan connecting the kitchen, dining room and living room, which have their uses well defined within the new internal steps which don’t just add height in the extension but make a better connection to the garden and open up views from the original rooms. ### Project Details #### Services Provided - full architectural services - concept to completion - detailed layouts - planning and conservation area permissions - tender package - contract administration - site supervision - building regulation #### Features - rear extension - full house refurbishment - photovoltaic and solar panels - new kitchen and utility room #### Client #### Year #### Categories Home Renovations Conservation & Heritage Residential Extensions ## Planning something similar? Straight answers to the questions we're asked most about projects like this one. [Browse all questions](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/faq/) Conservation areas have additional planning restrictions to preserve architectural character. This may affect materials, design details, and even the overall form of your extension. We have extensive experience working within these constraints and can design solutions that respect heritage while meeting modern needs. Putney and Wandsworth have specific planning requirements including conservation area restrictions, flood risk considerations, and local character preservation. We understand these requirements and design solutions that comply while making the most of your property's potential within local constraints. Most planning policies are very similar wherever you are, but we'll point out any local quirks. Related: [Putney architects](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/putney-architects/) [choosing a local architect](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/why-you-should-choose-a-local-architect/) Project timelines vary depending on complexity, size, and planning requirements. The process typically includes design development, planning and building regulations approval, and construction phases. We provide realistic timelines during our initial consultation and keep you informed throughout the process. If you want that kitchen for Christmas, hire us before Easter. New building takes longer, but the biggest delays come from changing your mind part way. Related: [our guide to extensions](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/extension/) [residential extension projects](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/portfolio/residential-extensions/) Yes, well-designed extensions typically add significant value to your property. A quality extension often increases property value beyond the construction cost. We design with both lifestyle and investment value in mind, ensuring your extension is a sound financial decision that enhances your home and your quality of life. Refitting adds little to the sale price, but you'll get the value of using it for years to come. Related: [a small extension, big change](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/small-extension-big-change/) Yes. We can run the whole construction stage — helping select the contractor, inspecting the work on site, keeping an eye on quality and progress, and valuing the work as it's carried out so payments stay fair. We act as your representative throughout, so the project stays on track and on brief. Related: [why you may need a principal designer](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/why-do-i-need-a-principal-designer/) [tenders, contracts and during the build](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/services/#service-9) ## Related Projects ![A modern take on the pitched roof-1 - View 1](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-andrew-catto-architects-lytton-grove-1jpg-a-modern-2fe512a3-1777137141769.jpg/putney-architecture-andrew-catto-architects-lytton-grove-1jpg-a-modern-2fe512a3-1777137141769_tablet.webp) 2025 ### A modern take on the pitched roof [Rusholme Road conservation area - Wandsworth West Hill](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/a-modern-take-on-the-pitched-roof/) ![It is not always about a large extensionn - Video](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-videopostervspfro-4d0a8cec-1775947812593.jpg/putney-architecture-videopostervspfro-4d0a8cec-1775947812593_tablet.webp) 2024 ### It is not always about a large extension [Willett Estate Roehampton SW15](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/it-is-not-always-about-a-large-extension/) ![Rear extension that opens to garden - Main view](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-gallery-42ec55bd-1bd2-4ff9-825b-f41de4f98204-andre-62fe7316-1760993695700.jpg/putney-architecture-gallery-42ec55bd-1bd2-4ff9-825b-f41de4f98204-andre-62fe7316-1760993695700_tablet.webp) 2012 ### Rear extension that opens to garden [Felsham Road- Putney](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/rear-extension-that-opens-to-garden/) ## Ready to Start Your Project? We offer an initial consultation to discuss your project needs and how we can assist with from start to finish. --- [Original page](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/using-levels-to-define-spaces/) ## Sitemap [sitemap.md](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/sitemap.md) · [llms.txt](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/llms.txt)