Pacific House: How Jess and Hayden Transformed a Tired Postwar Semi into a Tranquil Retreat.
Jess and her partner, Hayden—a sleep wellness entrepreneur and founder of the Sleepiest app—envisioned a home that balanced tranquility and sociability. They saw the potential in a modest 1930s semi-detached -how it could offer everything they wanted and nothing they didn’t need. An unassuming exterior, no unnecessary upstairs space, and the opportunity to create a surprising, expansive kitchen and dining area at the back. An intriguing glimpse from the outside hints at the transformation within: a modern, serene and sociable space that opens onto a private west-facing garden. Designed as both a space to retreat and connect, the house balances openness and sanctuary while fostering togetherness, contemplation, and effortless living.
For Jess and Hayden, the house was never just a renovation project—it was a creative pursuit. Hayden understands the importance of space in shaping mood and experience and in enhancing wellbeing. That philosophy is embedded in every decision they made, from the calm, natural palette to the seamless inside-outside flow.
Working with Mesh Architects they refined their plans to ensure every decision supported their goal of a home that felt effortless yet considered. The extension's light brickwork respects the original architecture while offering a contemporary contrast. Inside, natural materials, soft sheers and a muted palette create a sense of calm and permanence.
We named the house 'Pacific House' before even embarking on the renovations - 'Pacific' meaning peaceful in character or intent -Jess
The couple opted for Custom Fronts, blending the flexibility of IKEA cabinetry with the craftsmanship of bespoke materials. “Budgeting for a renovation is complex—there are so many elements competing for attention. Custom Fronts white European oak kitchen in their linear design allowed us to achieve a refined, high-quality look while being smart about costs. .Stuart of Born of Wood, local joiners, provided additional features to complement the Custom Fronts elements.
Practical details were just as important as aesthetics. Drawers replace traditional cupboards for better storage access, and key appliances are positioned intuitively—“the dishwasher right next to the sink, plates stored nearby, a pull-out bin where food is prepped.” The hob and ovens were placed on the island and the sink against the wall - as cooking is more sociable than washing up. Even seasonal traditions were considered. “We love Christmas, so we made sure there was space for two ovens and even a strategically placed socket for the Christmas tree.” It’s a space designed for the rhythms of daily life.
The hidden bar area, tucked behind pocket doors, is always a talking point. But beyond standout features, it's the atmosphere that defines the space—the calming nature of oak, the softness of limewash, and the way natural light shifts throughout the day. Even in winter, the space remains bright and welcoming.
In terms of interior feel we focused largely on organic materials, for a clean calming space -Jess
The calming nature of the oak used throughout, and the open light feel - even in Winter we have an abundance of daylight coming in to the space -Jess
The large glazed doors and carefully placed rooflights allow natural light to flood the space, changing its character throughout the day. A built-in window seat, positioned to embrace the evening sun, anchors the connection to the garden. “We wanted a space that felt open yet grounded,” Jess adds, “somewhere that could adapt from quiet mornings with coffee to lively gatherings with friends.”
From a tired post-war house to a home designed around ease and tranquility, Jess and Hayden’s transformation is a testament to the power of thoughtful design. By focusing on flow, materials, and light, they have created a space that feels deeply personal and effortlessly welcoming—a place to rest, gather, and simply be.
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