Taking a broad view
Width is more important than height," says Richard Osborne-Young, who has lived in a Victorian house in Wandsworth for the past six years. He and his wife, Fiona, built a rear extension for more living space, but they now have a young son, Milo, and want flexible family rooms.
The Osborne-Youngs plan to buy a semi in the same area. They like the period charm of Victorian houses but would consider a newbuild if it had a suitable layout.
One development that might appeal is a Laing scheme of four Victorian-style houses in nearby Clapham. In the reception room, a gallery cuts back from the rear wall to create a double-height void connecting a bright and airy basement level below.
Glass patio doors run the width of the house at the lower level, which is linked to a sunken terrace and raised garden. The development is off Crescent Lane. The showhouse is for sale at £630,000. Call 020 7720 4238.
