How we converted a boxy ‘dump’ into our spacious, light-filled dream home

At the back of the house a contemporary steel staircase dissects the basement living space, which opens directly on to the garden. All photographs: Darren Chung Photograph: Darren Chung

Already weary from multiple house viewings that didn’t meet their criteria, Purvi Harlalka and Jyothish George were unenthused when details of a large, long-neglected HMO (house of multiple occupancy) in north London dropped into their inbox. First impressions in real life were equally lacklustre, at least for George.

“We arrived for our viewing and he whispered, ‘There’s no way we’re going to buy this dump!’” says Harlalka. “But later, I convinced him of its potential. It had so much light and, importantly, a garden. I knew it was the one.”