Don't Move, Improve 2025: the 14 London homes adding design oomph to the everyday
Fourteen innovative London homes have been shortlisted for the Don’t Move, Improve 2025 awards. Each project focuses on creative design and sustainability to enhance residents’ daily lives. The competition highlights how thoughtful architecture can transform existing spaces instead of building anew.
Among the standout entries is Datum House by The DHaus Company Ltd. This modest extension brightens a lower-ground floor, turning it into an airy, open living area. Another bold project, Hands-on Home by Natallia Tanko, shows how a 1970s Lewisham flat evolved through gradual self-build renovations.
*Aperture House* by Curtaz Studio reimagines a Victorian mid-terrace, blending sleek interiors with lush outdoor spaces. *Hope Villa* by Proctor & Shaw adds a dynamic extension paired with a biodiverse rain garden. Meanwhile, *Hartley House* by THISS Studio transforms a Victorian terraced home into an eco-friendly space for a growing family. *Elemental House* by Archmongers Architects gives a 1970s terraced property a Scandinavian-inspired overhaul, prioritising light and function. In Islington, *House Extension* by VATRAA wraps a Victorian home in a conservation area with a modern addition. Last year’s winner, *Aden Grove*, set a high bar with its energy efficiency, vibrant character, and clever use of space.
The shortlist showcases a range of approaches, from eco-conscious upgrades to bold structural reinventions. Winners will be chosen based on how well each project balances creativity, practicality, and sustainability. The results will be announced in the coming months.
