Mozart House, designed by Studio DERA, is located in a listed building within the protected area of Belgravia, an exclusive Georgian neighbourhood in London. This building holds unique cultural significance: Mozart composed his first symphony here at the age of eight, and it was later inhabited by the poet Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicholson.
The new intervention transforms the space of a former, underutilized swimming pool into a new sequence of expansive living areas, with a careful and respectful approach that honours both the building's heritage and its architectural surroundings. The extension unfolds as an episodic architectural journey through a sequence of interconnected spaces. Layered vegetation, trees, and a rooftop garden soften the architecture, while hanging plants cascading into the sunken courtyard create a harmonious transition between interior and landscape.
Mozart House by Studio DERA. Photograph by Lorenzo Zandri.
"Studio DERA has exceeded our expectations. The Georgian terrace at the front and the modern extension at the rear integrate seamlessly to give us a home where we can fully enjoy life, and that is versatile enough to meet the diverse needs of our family."
The owner.
The design celebrates handcrafted materials, natural light, and a serene spatial rhythm through exquisite attention to detail, where texture, proportion, and the ever-changing natural light shape the atmosphere throughout the space. Materiality is fundamental; A timeless palette was selected, combining the natural warmth of travertine stone with the crispness of GRC concrete panels. Wood cladding adds texture and warmth to the interiors, while expansive windows, bi-fold doors, and courtyard skylights ensure natural light throughout the day.
Mozart House by Studio DERA. Photograph by Lorenzo Zandri.
The new homes are integrated into a sculptural excavation of the unique rear garden, preserving the integrity of the historic Georgian terrace and creating a serene, contemporary counterpoint to the original façade. The courtyards are defined by a colonnade that frames the ever-changing views of the vegetation and sky. A sculptural light well, finished in textured lime stucco by Guy Valentine, creates a constantly evolving visual landscape throughout the day.
"Working on such a historically significant site required sensitivity and clarity of purpose. With a timeless palette of travertine, GRC, wood, and vegetation, we set out to create an elegant, functional, and versatile home. Every detail was carefully considered, and the result is a serene, handcrafted, and timeless space."
Marcel Rahm, Studio DERA.
