If you are a lover of the English Architectural style (which suits leafy Kew quite well), then you will be drawn to this house, built in 1934. Architect Victor Dumbrell got the facade proportions right here and it has stood the test of time. This is a very pretty house from the street and it is timeless.

Howard Street is an underrated one in Kew -  it is not within a ‘known’ precinct, yet is just off Studley Park Rd and close to the junction.

This concept does not seek to overhaul the house in a major way; rather it makes a few basic tweaks internally and adds a  small extension to the rear. This will serve to adapt the house to 21st century living. While in some people’s minds this house will require a serious renovation ( a lot of people walk in and out of houses too quickly, without giving them a chance), I must say this all seems straightforward and maybe not all that hard. Access is not too bad for building work and any extension work may not necessarily affect rooflines (therefore minimising impact on original structure and planning rules). Many will see challenges here with the flow (particularly in the central part of the house) and also a limited living room area toward the rear of the house.  The main bedroom lacks an ensuite and, like most old houses, the utility areas are antiquated and small.

One thing one would be silly to do here is break from the original style and proportions. In essence, the aim should be to get the rear facade to look as pretty as the front. This should be achievable, and would not necessarily compromise a modern interior.

Philippe Batters from Williams Batters  expects your interest to exceed $1.8 million for 21 Howard Street Kew, which is scheduled to go to auction on March 27 at 11am.

Design Smart

Adam