Lucy Williams brings her signature sense of style to her west London house

Stacey and Peter Paulsen, who own Royal Crest Homes, decided to move to a 6,500-square-foot English Arts and Crafts house in Westlake after seeing a floor plan designed by Southlake-based Heritage Design Studio. The couple, along with their two sons, found the open-concept living and kitchen area, grand dining room, large media/family room, and primary bedroom appealing. Stacey Paulsen engaged Dallas designer Emily Larkin of EJ Interiors, with whom she had previously collaborated on their Keller home, to customize the new residence. Larkin participated in architect meetings, helping Paulsen modify the floor plan to suit their lifestyle. One significant alteration involved converting a planned wine bar into a functional prep kitchen, enhancing its daily utility for the family. The architectural design of the home draws inspiration from England, an aesthetic consistently maintained throughout the interior. This was achieved through the incorporation of cozy fireplaces with ornate mantels, varied textures, crown molding on walls, and traditional furniture. Each room in the house was approached with a distinct design concept, often beginning with a specific element like a fabric, an overarching vision, or a piece of artwork. For instance, the primary bedroom's blue-and-purple color scheme was developed around a floral Schumacher print, which Larkin identified as the central inspiration for the entire room due to its subtle lilac and gray tones. The piano room, originally intended as an office, was repurposed to accommodate the Paulsens' sons' piano lessons. To create a sense of larger space within this smaller room, Larkin opted for a dark color palette, influenced by a William Curtis Rolf photograph displayed above the fireplace. In the powder bathrooms, Larkin experimented with bold and playful designs. One bathroom features an Hermès print, which was initially outside Paulsen's comfort zone, paired with black trim to evoke the feeling of an English garden. Another powder bathroom, designated for the pool area, showcases a graphic Kelly Wearstler print, selected to achieve a more modern and vibrant aesthetic. The main living area also underwent an unconventional redesign; a breakfast nook was removed to make way for a second seating area. Paulsen preferred this arrangement over another dining table, considering the existing bar seating, dining room, and outdoor dining space. This new layout allowed the children to use the space for homework while she cooked. The kitchen furnishings were expertly handled by Lauren Haskett, a designer based in Houston and a long-time friend of Larkin's. The home's design has evolved over time to align with the family's changing needs, particularly as the sons have grown older, with one now attending college. Larkin has continued to adapt the design to accommodate these lifestyle shifts. The Paulsens' collaboration with Larkin highlights a personalized approach to home design, blending traditional English influences with functional and distinctive interior choices. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #WestlakeHomes #EnglishArtsAndCrafts #CustomHome #LuxuryInteriors #EmilyLarkin #ResidentialArchitecture

This article highlights the renovation of a home at 1909 Baymiller Street in Cincinnati's West End, undertaken by Rosie Kovacs and Hayes Shanesy, the husband-and-wife team behind Brush Factory. The West End is presented as a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history, known for its unique homes and ongoing revitalization efforts, exemplified by previous renovations like a church-turned-home. The current owners' dedication to restoring historically significant buildings contributes to the area's distinct character. The renovation of the three-bedroom, three-bath home focused on maximizing square footage and enhancing the existing south-facing window exposure. A significant aspect of the project involved the complete rehabilitation of the staircase. Hayes Shanesy, with the assistance of his father, a retired master cabinetmaker, meticulously disassembled the curved cherry handrail and balusters. Each piece was stripped and refinished before being painstakingly reassembled, a process described as a labor of love due to the staircase's intricate design, wrapping around three flights. Custom woodwork is a prominent feature throughout the residence, reflecting the owners' craftsmanship. In the living room, built-in cabinets span the entire length of the space, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical storage. The kitchen showcases light wood cabinets paired with black hardware, creating a striking contrast against the tile backsplash. These custom elements contribute to the home's unique and refined interior design. The primary bathroom is another highlight, featuring a claw-foot tub, a walk-in shower, and a custom vanity. Adjacent to the bathroom, a door leads to a private deck, accessible from the owner's suite, providing an exclusive outdoor retreat. These details underscore the thoughtful design and high-quality finishes incorporated into the renovation. Shanesy reflects on the transformation of the property and the neighborhood, noting that when he purchased the house in 2016, it was a vacant, abandoned building in disrepair, a common sight on Baymiller Street at the time. He observes that most homes on the street have since been renovated, contributing to a beautiful streetscape. The owners appreciate the historical significance of the homes in the West End, particularly along Dayton Street's "Millionaire's Row," enjoying walks with their dog and daughter. The article concludes by emphasizing the neighborhood's romantic charm and its immense potential. #RosieKovacs #HayesShanesy #BrushFactory #Baymiller #WestEnd #HomeRenovation #CustomWoodwork #InteriorDesign #CincinnatiRealEstate

The owner of a two-bedroom London maisonette, Gemma Edwards, who frequently travels for work with a government conservation agency, opted to hire interior designer Sean Symington to transform her home. Edwards sought a unique and non-standard interior, explaining her desire to avoid a “cookie-cutter” look and her focus on enjoyable aesthetic changes rather than extensive structural renovations. Symington, known for his adept use of color and pattern, was selected to invigorate the apartment. The living room, despite its inherent character, was previously described as dull and lacked a central feature. Symington addressed this by introducing a fireplace surround and incorporating alcove shelving, which served both as a focal point and provided display and storage options. A marble mantelpiece, sourced from a reclamation yard, enhances the room's coziness, particularly when candles are lit, despite not being a functional fireplace. The room features watermelon velvet sofas from Sofa.com and an armchair upholstered in an animal spot velvet. Edwards's existing Dashiki curtain fabric was adapted for the south-facing living room, with Sean lengthening them using an additional panel, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new curtains. The room also benefits from a small balcony, providing a pleasant outdoor space for morning coffee and a developing potted garden, accommodating Edwards's busy schedule that limits traditional gardening. In the kitchen and bathroom, the strategy focused on redecorating rather than replacing existing fixtures and appliances, which were of good quality, to avoid waste. Edwards prioritized investing in fabrics and furniture, elements she could potentially take with her if she were to move. The kitchen now boasts soft, earthy red walls contrasting with dark blue cupboards and a chequerboard floor. Radiators were painted to match the walls, a budget-friendly solution. A matching Roman blind and sink skirt introduce softness, and vintage dining chairs were reupholstered. The narrow hallway was not overlooked in the decorative scheme. One wall features a gallery of framed prints, each without a backing to expose the wall behind. The radiator is cleverly concealed by a fabric skirt and a shelf, providing both style and utility. The main bedroom showcases a vibrant palette of emerald and mustard, combined with natural materials. A half-tester over the bed creates a bold statement, complemented by a classic William Morris print wallpaper. Table lamps from Pooky and smaller reading lights with scalloped seagrass shades adorn wicker-topped bedside tables. Fitted wardrobes, painted in Bancha by Farrow & Ball to match the woodwork, include both panelled doors and open shelves, aiding in creating a sense of spaciousness, with Ikea baskets used for storage. The home office underwent a significant transformation from an unliked baby blue to a warmer Farrow & Ball India Yellow. This color provides a suitable backdrop for a painting and a kilim rug, a souvenir from Edwards's time working in Africa. An antique desk from Vinterior and practical shelves with decorative scalloped edging complete the space. Edwards expresses her satisfaction with the final result, highlighting how each room now possesses a distinct character and individual color scheme, attributing the elevated aesthetic to the paint colors and fabrics chosen with Symington's expertise. #LondonMaisonette #InteriorDesign #ColorfulHome #PatternedDecor #BudgetDecorating #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeOfficeIdeas #Renovation #SeanSymington

Rosemary James, a designer and local literary figure, has meticulously transformed her 1910 Queen Anne-style home near Audubon Park into a personal sanctuary, dubbed the 'Putti Palace' by her late husband, Joseph DeSalvo. The 4,000-square-foot residence is a testament to James's passion for period detail, European antiques, and objects d'art, particularly those featuring winged infants known as putti. The home's design is heavily influenced by classical mythology, with Diana, the goddess of the moon, serving as its patron deity, and numerous images of Greek and Roman gods adorning its spaces. The renovation of the home, which James and DeSalvo purchased in October 2019, was extensive, addressing both aesthetic desires and practical needs. The couple's previous residence, a four-story French Quarter building above Faulkner House Books, became unmanageable due to DeSalvo's severe spinal condition, necessitating a move to a home where an elevator could be installed. This 1910 house provided the ideal solution, despite James' initial dislike for its Dutch Revival façade. The property's existing allee of tea olive trees and tall wrought-iron fencing were appealing features. A serendipitous discovery during the renovation revealed that the home had previously been owned by the family of Tom Lowenburg, co-owner of Octavia Books, another independent bookstore, adding to its literary charm. The renovation encompassed a complete overhaul, including rewiring, plumbing updates, and internal and external repainting. Significant structural and decorative changes were implemented, such as adding two bathrooms upstairs and incorporating Victorian embellishments like corbels, ornate door casings, and diamond-paned windows. The installation of classic marble in all bathrooms and the kitchen was a major undertaking, dictating much of the construction schedule due to high demand for the installer. Period-appropriate mantels replaced modern alternatives, enhancing the home's historical integrity. A decorative artist was commissioned to create custom Diana transoms, stencil the library ceiling, and apply a Shagreen pattern to the library walls. The artist also crafted a screen, copying an expensive Venetian painting, to discreetly conceal the library's television. James herself took an active role in the design process, creating custom furniture, bookcases, pocket doors, and a fountain wall specifically for her beloved putti. The exterior was painted in Benjamin Moore’s Winds Breath, complemented by French blue shutters in Farrow & Ball's Lulworth Blue No. 89, and a versatile Chantilly Lace white for the trim. James also restored the first floor's original layout, reinstating walls that had been removed over the house's 110-year history. This decision re-established distinct functional spaces, with the foyer serving as a clear transition point to public areas, the staircase to the second floor, or a hallway leading to the library and a full bath. James expressed her disdain for open-concept layouts, citing practical concerns regarding privacy, kitchen mess visibility, and heating/cooling efficiency. On the second floor, six bedrooms were reconfigured into three: a primary bedroom and two guest rooms. Another room was converted into a dressing room, with the potential to serve as an overflow bedroom. A primary bathroom was created from one of the former bedrooms, featuring a cabana-style shower. A rear exit and utility closet were also added, addressing practical storage needs. James lived in the home with DeSalvo until his passing in December 2020. Since then, she has continued to enhance the property, transforming a former garage into a rentable guest house and dedicating significant time to maintaining the extensive gardens surrounding the pool and driveway, likening the effort to farming. #HomeRenovation #PeriodDetail #Antiques #ClassicalDesign #NewOrleansHomes #InteriorDesign #HistoricalHomes #RosemaryJames #PuttiPalace

Polysmiths, an architecture studio based in London, has designed and built Cork House in east London, utilizing cork panels for both internal and external surfaces. This project was developed during the Covid-19 lockdown, a period characterized by material shortages and increased costs for conventional building materials. Charles Wu, the director of Polysmiths, acted as the architect, client, and developer for this three-bedroom house, which serves as his own residence. Initially, Wu planned to construct the house using traditional blockwork and timber frames. However, the pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and price surges for materials like concrete, plasterboard, and plywood necessitated a pivot. This led Wu to explore and adopt more affordable and sustainable alternatives. The house's construction ultimately relied on locally sourced timber and lime plaster, complemented by cork paneling throughout. The use of cork, sourced from Portuguese firm Amorim via a Welsh supplier, was a deliberate choice to enhance the building's sustainability credentials and address material availability. Cork, harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, is an excellent insulator and was treated to meet fire-proofing standards. Wu noted that beyond its functional benefits, cork contributes a unique multi-sensory quality to the home, emitting a subtle, pleasant aroma akin to charred wood and offering a rich texture and color that interacts dynamically with light. Cork House is situated on a rectangular brownfield site in Forest Gate, nestled among the walled gardens of neighboring terraced houses. This urban context presented a challenge in terms of natural light penetration. To overcome this, Wu incorporated innovative design elements such as internally facing courtyards to facilitate cross-ventilation and allow ample daylight into the interior. Building height restrictions also led to the excavation of part of the site, resulting in a split-level interior that adds architectural interest and maximizes space utilization. The layout of Cork House features an entrance hallway that connects to an open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge. A central lightwell and staircase separate these communal spaces from two bedrooms and a shower room at the rear, creating distinct public and private zones on the ground floor. The main courtyard is designed with fully openable folding glass doors, enabling a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living areas, a concept inspired by Wu's childhood experiences in Australia. Additional skylights, high-level windows, and a smaller void further ensure that natural light permeates deep into the home. The lower ground floor houses the main bedroom, which overlooks a courtyard situated at the base of the larger lightwell. The en-suite bathroom also benefits from natural light channeled through this corner lightwell. Wu regards Cork House as an embodiment of "beautiful sustainability," showcasing an experimental approach to self-building that arose from challenging circumstances. He advocates for architects to undertake similar projects, viewing them as opportunities to prototype new materials and innovative living solutions. The project highlights cork's growing popularity as a natural and renewable material in contemporary architecture. #ResidentialArchitecture #SustainableDesign #CorkCladding #LondonHouses #SelfBuild #MaterialInnovation #Polysmiths #ArchitecturalExperimentation

This article details an extraordinary estate sale held from March 9-12 at a Colonial home in Bedford Corners, N.Y., formerly owned by Andrew and Randi Heine and decorated by renowned designer Bunny Williams. The sale, managed by Elizabeth Jackson, an experienced estate sale organizer and retail showroom owner, attracted considerable attention, including an invitation-only champagne preview for members of the American Society of Interior Designers. Martha Stewart, a local resident, attended the sale daily, as did Apple Bartlett and Susan Crater, daughter and granddaughter of the late interior decorator Sister Parish, whose design firm they continue to operate. Sister Parish's influence was evident through several items with her provenance and a stack of her decorating books available at the sale. The home itself, built in 1930 for the Heinz family, provided a picturesque backdrop for the event. Jackson, with 15 years of experience in high-end estate sales and a retail showroom in Norwalk, Conn., emphasized her commitment to curating special sales that offer a diverse mix of antiques, vintage pieces, and modern designs across various price points. Her goal is to provide buyers with unique finds and educational experiences. The sale's success was evident from the consistent turnout and enthusiasm of attendees, who appreciated both the quality and quantity of items available, ranging from window treatments to lighting fixtures. The sale operated on an auction-style bidding system, with many items receiving multiple bids or selling instantly. Among the most sought-after items were an unusual jardinière with a mahogany top, displayed in the entranceway filled with orchids and cyclamen, and a sunburst lighting fixture crafted from an antique Venetian-style mirror. The latter, described by Jackson as the "most coveted item," sold during the preview, highlighting its rarity and desirability. Other popular items included a Tabriz rug in a blue-gray palette in the living room, a zinc bar in the sunroom, a three-level Maison Jansen rolling étagère, an 1880s storage chest with needlepoint upholstery, and a D-end antique mahogany French dining table with four leaves and drop-leaf ends that previously belonged to Sister Parish. The process of packing up and clearing the house continued for almost a week after the official end of the sale, reflecting the volume of items sold. For those interested in the property itself, the estate was also listed for sale at $5.8 million. Elizabeth Jackson's retail store is located at 207 Liberty Square in Norwalk, Conn., offering additional opportunities for antique and design enthusiasts. This event underscores the continued demand for high-quality antiques and vintage furnishings, especially those with a rich history or designer provenance. #EstateSale #InteriorDesign #Antiques #VintageFurnishings #HomeDecor #LuxuryRealEstate #BunnyWilliams #SisterParish #ElizabethJackson

The article highlights the transformation of a formal sitting room in the 2023 Whole Home, located in Hinsdale, Illinois, designed by Caitlin Wilson. The room, characterized by ornate moldings and trim, initially appeared outdated. Wilson’s vision for the space was a sophisticated setting suitable for a ladies' tea, drawing inspiration from the elegance of the television series Downton Abbey. She emphasized preserving the home’s historic features rather than stripping them away, as she had observed in other remodel projects of older homes. Wilson’s design approach involved using complementary colors to enhance the existing architecture, creating a distinctly feminine aesthetic. The color palette primarily features pink, with subtle touches of blue and green. The designer's intention was to revive the home's original grandeur through the strategic application of color, celebrating its inherent character. This focus on color was central to her design philosophy for the project. Beyond aesthetics, the design also prioritized practicality. Despite the room’s considerable size, Wilson incorporated functional elements such as swivel chairs and furniture pieces equipped with casters. These choices enable easy reconfiguration of the space, allowing it to adapt quickly for various family events and gatherings. This functional flexibility ensures that the elegant room is also highly usable for everyday life and special occasions. Specific design details are provided, including the paint choices: the walls were painted in Farrow & Ball's Pink Ground, and the trim in Wimborne White. The living space includes comfortable seating with two ottomans and four chairs, two of which swivel. The fireplace surround is adorned with framed chinoiserie prints and three-dimensional brass butterflies. Instead of a conventional gallery display, Wilson opted for framed intaglios, which are reproductions of incised art popular among 18th and 19th-century travelers, sourced from Statuette. A bookcase from Serena & Lily houses decorative vases, which are rotated between the mantel and tables. The article also lists the suppliers for various furnishings and decor items within the living room. Sofas, a loveseat, and a swivel chair were provided by Lee Industries. Lounge chairs, other swivel chairs (with fabric specified), art, accessories, pillows, and rugs were all from Caitlin Wilson’s own collection. Ottomans, tables, and the bookshelf were sourced from Serena & Lily. The fireplace screen and wall sculpture were by Claire Crowe, while fabrics were supplied by Fabricut. Lighting was provided by Visual Comfort & Co. This comprehensive list of sources underlines the curated and high-quality selection of elements used in the room’s design, contributing to its overall elegant and practical ambiance. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LivingRoom #CaitlinWilson #DowntonAbbey #HistoricHomes #ColorPalette #FunctionalDesign #LuxuryInteriors

This article highlights the transformation of a Victorian terrace in south London, where designer Laura Stephens reconfigured its layout to inject light and modern living while preserving its historical character. The project addressed the common dilemma of modernizing classic townhouses by integrating contemporary elements without compromising original features like paneling, plasterwork, and traditional layouts. Instead of extensive structural changes, Stephens focused on a less interventionist approach, retaining the 19th-century architecture and skillfully adapting the floor plan to suit a modern family. Key changes included relocating the sitting room to the back, moving the kitchen to the middle, and positioning the dining room, which also functions as a small home office, at the front of the house. To enhance natural light, a glazed screen was installed between the hallway and dining room, creating an effect similar to an old-fashioned office partition, which significantly brightened the front of the home. The design incorporated fresh colors, and natural textures like jute and seagrass, along with subtle architectural details to create a living space that feels both contemporary and timeless. The kitchen features periwinkle blue cabinetry designed to complement the high ceilings, contrasted with 'utilitarian' white metro tiles and bronze hardware, which adds a touch of aged elegance. In the sitting room, a new fireplace was installed, and half-paneling was introduced to balance the striped wallpaper. The designer also focused on sustainability and cost-effectiveness by recovering existing furniture pieces such as sofas, armchairs, dining chairs, and an ottoman, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and repurposing items. The main bedroom underwent a significant transformation, with previously 'bleak' wardrobes being revitalized by glazed doors lined with gathered fabric. A gauzy pendant light was chosen for its sculptural quality, echoing the textured pink wallcovering that envelops the room. In the top-floor bathroom, an innovative solution was found when a shortage of mustard and white tiles led to the installation of a mirror panel. This not only extended the striped design but also visually expanded the cozy, eaves-tucked space. Laura Stephens also designed unique rugs in collaboration with Bombay Sprout, incorporating motifs based on antique passementerie and natural jute textures, reflecting the blend of past and present in the home's overall design. Laura Stephens shared her style inspiration, citing her satisfaction with the glazed wall, her preference for 'Spruce' by Paint & Paper Library as a go-to color, and drawing inspiration from interior design books, historical and contemporary, as well as her youngest daughter. She expressed admiration for architect Gil Schafer and the Chrysler Building in New York City. The project successfully created a bright, comfortable, and ageless living space that honors its Victorian roots while embracing modern functionality and aesthetics. #LondonTownhouse #VictorianRenovation #InteriorDesign #LauraStephens #HomeRedesign #ColorPalette #TextureMixing #NaturalLight #KitchenDesign #BedroomTransformation

Emma Sims-Hilditch, a prominent figure in the interior design landscape, is celebrated for crafting serene yet practical interiors that exude an understated modern elegance. Her designs are equally suited for both rural and urban settings, reflecting a unique blend of sophistication and comfort. Her journey into interior design was unconventional, beginning with a career in film production in London, where she worked as a production assistant for Ridley Scott on films like 'Thelma and Louise' and 'Gladiator'. This experience proved invaluable, equipping her with essential skills in managing large-scale projects and budgets. Today, her design studio, comprising a team of 30 professionals, serves a diverse clientele, including British clients and international patrons seeking assistance with properties in the UK and abroad. Sims-Hilditch's design philosophy is deeply rooted in nature and the preservation of England's architectural heritage. Her signature aesthetic is characterized by calm color palettes, tactile textures, and a harmonious fusion of modern and classic elements, creating interiors that are both relaxing and highly functional for daily life. The Sims Hilditch studio, formally launched in 2009, evolved organically from Emma's initial foray into interior work. After leaving film production and relocating to Wiltshire, she renovated her own derelict, listed former school and established a professional curtain-making business. Her 'big break' came when she was commissioned to design the interior of a manor house, marking the true beginning of her acclaimed career. Emma's creative inclinations stem from a family history of artists and designers, including a great-grandfather who was a member of the Royal Academy of Arts and a mother who was a keen interior decorator. This early exposure to creativity, combined with her habit of redecorating her own room as a child, set her on a path towards design, despite initially pursuing a business studies degree. As her business expanded, she relocated her studio to a meticulously renovated 16th-century pub, The White Hart, on the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire border. This unique space, opened in 2014, not only accommodates her growing team of 30 but also provides an inspiring and comfortable environment for clients. A key aspect of Sims-Hilditch's work is her team's thoughtful and sensitive approach to renovating listed buildings. They take pride in preserving architectural heritage, integrating original features while reimagining layouts to suit modern living without compromising historical integrity. This commitment to heritage preservation is evident in projects like the renovation of a 500-year-old, nine-bedroom family home. Her designs prioritize longevity and quality over fleeting trends, ensuring that each scheme is client-focused and built to last. The studio also emphasizes the reuse and preservation of existing furniture, incorporating clients' pieces to add character and personality to each home, alongside curating items from local suppliers and antique dealers. The Sims Hilditch studio offers a comprehensive design service, encompassing furniture and furnishing specifications, a dedicated procurement team, and an in-house interior architectural service that covers spatial planning, kitchen and bathroom design, and bespoke joinery. Emma draws inspiration from museums, art galleries, and hotels, notably La Bastide de Marie Hotel in Provence, which influenced her own Wiltshire home. The English countryside also serves as a profound source of inspiration, with elements like color palettes reminiscent of rolling hills and timber floors inspired by woodlands often integrated into her designs. She advocates for exploring surroundings, whether in the countryside or urban centers like London, to spark creativity. Emma acknowledges the impact of technology on the design industry, embracing online platforms for outreach while emphasizing the importance of face-to-face meetings for personal connection. Her design icons include Axel Vervoordt, admired for his understated, natural, and elegant aesthetic. Currently, the studio is engaged in diverse projects, from new builds to extensive refurbishments, including a nine-bedroom family home in Northern England, a chalet in the Swiss Mountains, and various properties in London and the Cotswolds. Emma has also appointed Louise Wicksteed as Design Director, allowing her to focus on the creative direction of the business, while her family continues to demonstrate a strong creative lineage in fine art and film set decoration. #EmmaSimsHilditch #InteriorDesign #EnglishStyle #HistoricRenovation #DesignAesthetic #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalHeritage #TimelessDesign #WiltshireDesign

Tulisa, the N-Dubz singer currently participating in 'I'm a Celebrity', has recently relocated to Manchester and undertaken a significant renovation of her new home. This move was prompted by her desire for a better quality of life after a challenging year. The transformation of her Manchester residence showcases a unique and eclectic design aesthetic, moving away from conventional interior styles. Her living room, for instance, features unexpected design elements. Instead of typical decor, Tulisa has incorporated ancient Egyptian iconography carved directly into the walls, creating a distinctive and historical ambiance. The room is further equipped with a roaring fire, adding warmth and a focal point, alongside a television that is backlit with blue lights, providing a modern and ambient glow. Complementing these features are two additional wall carvings, a plush grey sofa for comfort, and a large bronze Buddha statue, which introduces a spiritual and exotic touch to the space. The bathroom underwent a complete overhaul, with Tulisa opting for a sleek, contemporary grey suite. This includes built-in cabinetry, maximizing space and offering a seamless look. A unique detail is the bathmat placed on a raised wooden plinth, contributing to the room's refined and structured design. The exterior of her home has also been fully transformed to harmonize with the interior's grey and white color scheme, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic from the inside out. The garden now boasts newly laid grass and a wooden arch adorned with flowers, creating an inviting and picturesque outdoor area. Reflecting her status as an iconic noughties popstar, Tulisa's home includes a walk-in wardrobe. This dedicated space is filled with designer shoes and clothing, highlighted by moody purple lighting, which adds a touch of glamour and personal style. The preference for colored lighting extends to her first-floor hallway, which glows with an amethyst hue at nighttime, creating a dramatic and atmospheric effect. Tulisa's bedroom, however, has garnered particular attention and some confusion among fans due to its unconventional design choices. It features candy pink bedding and curtains, combined with a unicorn statue, leading some to speculate if it was decorated with a child in mind. This blend of playful and vibrant elements further emphasizes her individualistic approach to home decoration. Before the renovation was fully completed, photographs of Tulisa in her living room revealed several unusual finishing touches. These included a Roman statue illuminated with green light and a telescope positioned towards the double doors leading outside, suggesting a fascination with history, art, and perhaps astronomy or a desire for contemplation. These elements contribute to the overall quirky and personal character of her home. This new home in Manchester signifies a fresh start for Tulisa, particularly following a 12-year battle with Bell's palsy and a past wrongful accusation of drug supplying in 2013. The extensive renovation and move represent a significant personal and residential transformation, marking a new chapter in her life. #TulisaContostavlos #CelebrityHomes #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ManchesterHome #UniqueDecor #EgyptianIconography #LifestyleTransformation

David Collins Studio has been a pivotal force in interior design for four decades, creating glamorous and inviting spaces that have become iconic London establishments. The studio's influence spans from renowned restaurants and hotels to luxury fashion boutiques and residential projects. Its enduring success is attributed to its distinctive approach to design, which balances elegance with approachability, making spaces desirable to a diverse clientele. The studio's journey began with a significant partnership with chef Marco Pierre White in 1988, starting with Harvey's on Wandsworth Common. This collaboration expanded to include other notable restaurants like Mirabelle, Quo Vadis, and the Canteen, establishing David Collins Studio as a key player in London's vibrant dining scene. Iain Watson, the CEO of David Collins Studio, who joined in 1988, highlights the impact of these early projects, noting that White was a pioneer in fine dining at a grand scale. A landmark project for the studio in 1998 was the transformation of Claridge’s Bar. It evolved from a modest eatery into a premier destination with distinctive features such as red crocodile-print leather and Art Deco elements, alongside its own dedicated entrance. This redesign attracted a fashionable crowd, including celebrities like Kate Moss. Simon Rawlings, the chief creative officer, who joined in the same year, emphasizes how the bar successfully drew in non-hotel guests, a novel concept at the time. The studio subsequently modernized Claridge's sister hotels, the Berkeley and the Connaught, adopting a formula of chic bars and acclaimed restaurants with celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Angela Hartnett, and Marcus Wareing, revitalizing these historic establishments. Another significant collaboration was with restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, known for their work with The Ivy and Le Caprice. Their first joint venture was the redesign of J Sheekey, an old London fish restaurant, which proved highly successful with its intimate booths and interconnected rooms. This led to further projects, including Colbert, the Delaunay, Brasserie Zédel, and especially The Wolseley. The Wolseley, originally a car showroom and later a bank, was reimagined as a grand Viennese-style café, revolutionizing London's breakfast culture by making dining out for breakfast a lifestyle choice rather than just a meal. Rawlings recalls traveling to Vienna to study café culture, observing details such as the presentation of espresso with a glass of water, which influenced The Wolseley's unique appeal. Beyond hospitality, David Collins Studio also made its mark in luxury retail. It designed five Anglomania stores in Japan and a flagship store in New York for Vivienne Westwood. The studio faced creative challenges, such as creating flooring that mimicked hair, reflecting the designer's unique aesthetic. In 2012, the studio collaborated with Alexander McQueen, developing a global retail concept that incorporated traditional-looking panels revealing iconic McQueen motifs like flowers and butterflies, reproduced by local artisans worldwide. The studio’s extensive portfolio also includes residential projects for high-profile clients such as Madonna and Tom Ford, and nightclubs like Kabaret’s Prophecy. Even the widespread Café Rouge chain, which brought the relaxed bistro concept to the UK, benefited from the studio's design expertise, with each of its over 100 branches featuring authentic French artifacts. Although David Collins passed away in 2013, his vision is sustained by the 60-strong team, led by Watson and Rawlings, who continue to pursue diverse and challenging projects, ensuring the studio's legacy of designing memorable and lasting experiences. #DavidCollinsStudio #InteriorDesign #LondonHospitality #LuxuryRetailDesign #RestaurantDesign #HotelInteriors #ArchitecturalLegacy #BritishDesign #GlamorousInteriors

The annual WOW!house interiors showcase, now in its third year, is hosted at London's Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. This event highlights the work of contemporary designers, with the 2024 edition featuring 19 distinct rooms and outdoor spaces, spanning over 500 square meters. Designers like Ken Fulk, Alidad, and Tolù Adèkó meticulously craft each space, focusing on every detail from soft furnishings to atmospheric scents. Claire German, CEO of the Design Centre, emphasizes the event's aim to astonish and inspire by demonstrating the exceptional achievements possible through collaborative efforts within the design industry. The showcase runs until July 4, 2024. Among the featured rooms is the Schumacher Courtyard Bedroom by Veere Grenney Associates. Grenney, a prominent figure in interior design, conceived the space as a tranquil 'one' room, ideal for writing or sitting, and envisioned it with an open fire, stating that only a dog is missing. This room pays tribute to the late American designer Billy Baldwin, known for his clean-cut and minimalist aesthetic, notably applied in John F. Kennedy's White House. Grenney also used this platform to introduce his latest fabric collection for Schumacher, a company with a long history of supplying high-quality materials to esteemed clients. The walls of the bedroom are adorned with a subtle 'Woodman Check' pattern, while a four-poster bed, favored by Grenney, features 'Suffolk Damask' pelmets and swags in a rich brown. Personal touches such as framed photographs, a vase of peonies, and coffee-table books contribute to the inviting atmosphere. Visitors frequently praise the room for its blend of cleanliness, contemporary style, order, precision, and comfort. Benedict Foley’s Zoffany Entrance Hall draws inspiration from Luchino Visconti’s 1963 film, _Il Gattopardo_ (_The Leopard_), infusing the space with a theatrical blend of Italian flair and English elegance. Foley describes the room as an invitation to imagine oneself in a Sicilian palazzo. Zoffany, a manufacturer renowned for its historical research and dedication to preserving traditional crafts, provided the fabrics and wall coverings. The room features luxurious silks in ruby and caramel, along with 'Wool Satin' and 'Long Gallery' brocades, whose designs originated from the Tudor estate Temple Newsam in West Yorkshire. A distinctive earth-toned, checkerboard carpet crafted from British wool by one of England's last skilled weavers completes the flooring. Foley highlights Zoffany's contributions to UK manufacturing and the artistry of fabric mills, describing his design approach as weaving together diverse visual references with a touch of humor, resulting in a vibrant mix of patterns, colors, and textures. The Colefax and Fowler Morning Room, designed by Lucy Hammond Giles, was created by the 2023 House & Garden 'Interior Designer of the Year.' Giles, an associate director at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, Britain’s oldest interior decorating firm, aimed to create a cozy, practical daytime room. The design incorporates blue-and-white ceramics, ivory scalloped lanterns, and walls covered in mustard-yellow Larsen linen. The linen curtains are embellished with Colefax and Fowler’s signature block-printed 'Gothic Stripe' silk in a custom chocolate color, meticulously hand-cut and stitched. Giles explains that the morning room is a less formal space than a drawing-room, intended for relaxed activities like enjoying coffee and a newspaper. She also delved into the Colefax and Fowler archives to find a sofa design, ultimately selecting an elegantly curved model initially made for the apartment of former designer Tom Parr and his partner, Fulco di Verdura. This sofa, re-created in a cream fabric with orange ribbon trim, offers a modern yet comfortable aesthetic, providing a perfect and elegant retreat. Jamb London Primary Bedroom, conceived by Charlotte Freemantle and Will Fisher, showcases the evolution of Jamb, a prominent purveyor of antique and reproduction 18th- and 19th-century furniture, lighting, and fireplaces. What began as a south London stall over 20 years ago has transformed into a successful business with a flagship store on Pimlico Road and multiple showrooms in the USA. For WOW!house, Fisher and Fremantle designed a luxurious bedroom enveloped in soft pink silk. The centerpiece is a Chippendale-style four-poster bed, upholstered with antique paisley shawls, complemented by lozenge-shaped mirrors and mahogany pot cupboards inspired by 18th-century cabinetmaker Gillows of Lancaster. The room also features a reproduction Georgian armchair with faux bamboo legs and a significant 18th-century Anglo-Chinese coromandel cabinet adorned with figurative scenes, reflecting historical English fascination with the Far East. A late-19th-century painting of a resting lion by American artist Newbold Hough Trotter is prominently displayed above one of Jamb’s distinctive chimneypieces, crafted from Grigio Carnico marble, completing the Romantic vision. The Sitting Room by Sophie Ashby for United in Design highlights a commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the design industry. Ashby, recognized as one of House & Garden’s 'Top 100' interior designers, co-founded United in Design in 2020 with Alexandria Dauley. The charity aims to provide opportunities for individuals from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds. As this year's WOW!house charity partner, a portion of ticket sales will support inclusivity initiatives throughout 2025. Ashby’s eclectic room reflects the charity’s mission by featuring furniture, fabrics, and art created by Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse talents, including designer B.C. Joshua, photographer Sridhar Balasubramaniyam, and textile artist Dalia James. Notable elements include photographs by Lily Bertrand-Webb, a deaf Dominican-English photographer, and a copy of Ashby’s book, _Studio Ashby: Home Art Soul_, showcasing her decade of work. #InteriorDesign #WOWhouse #ChelseaDesignCentre #VeereGrenney #BenedictFoley #LucyHammondGiles #JambLondon #SophieAshby #UnitedInDesign

This article offers a glimpse into the Melbourne home of photographer and author Robyn Lea, showcasing her unique approach to interior design. The residence is a two-storey Victorian home with five bedrooms located in Melbourne's inner-eastern suburbs, where Robyn resides with her husband Tim Hunt, their two children, Isabella and Freddie, and their Beagalier puppy, Magnolia. The family undertook an extensive renovation of the home approximately 12 years prior to the publication of this article, subsequently enlisting Penelope Scott Interiors for window furnishings. Robyn Lea's office is highlighted as her favorite room, described as an evolving space filled with inspiring books, artworks, and various objects. This includes Italian-made plates by La DoubleJ, artworks by Charles Pollock, Nathalie Lété, and John Benn, and four distinct wallpapers, reflecting a constantly changing installation. The sitting room features a mural by Russian artist Ekaterina Panikanova, complemented by chairs from Early Settler and a table from Family Love Tree. The home's collection also includes numerous paintings by artist John Benn, a family friend. The neighborhood where the home is situated is characterized as small, with local cafes, shops, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Robyn expresses her ongoing intention to continuously evolve the interior homescape, viewing it as a natural extension of her visual storytelling through photography and writing about artists. Her advice for decorating is to personalize the space, stating, "Decorate to please yourself – it’s your nest, after all. If you love it, it will love you right back." A significant detail mentioned is Robyn's initial attraction to the home, which was influenced by a majestic magnolia tree in the back garden, reminding her of 'The Magic Faraway Tree.' #EclecticHome #InteriorDesign #MelbourneHomes #PhotographersHome #VictorianArchitecture #ArtisticInteriors #HomeRenovation #PersonalizedDecor

British designer Bethan Laura Wood resides in a 575-square-foot apartment in a 1925 Art Deco building in East London, reflecting her vibrant and unconventional design aesthetic. Her home is an extension of her professional work, which is characterized by a bold use of color, texture, and a blend of industrial materials with artistic references. The apartment features powder pink stairwells, mint green window frames, and baby blue accents, providing an appropriate backdrop for her colorful creations. Inside, Wood’s living space is a dynamic display of peach, pistachio, and mauve walls, complemented by geometric rugs and a collection of unique objects. These include Pyrex lamps shaped like floral bouquets, a side table made from extruded pastel plastic, and various pieces she has designed or acquired. Wood emphasizes color as her primary language for interpreting places, drawing inspiration from regional palettes such as London's earthy grays and Venice's saturated blues. Her work often incorporates industrial materials like laminate, manipulating them to imitate other substances and exploring themes of globalism and authenticity through design history. Her current exhibition, "Ornate," at Milan’s Nilufar Gallery, draws inspiration from diverse sources including Japanese kimono fabrics, Victorian boudoirs, and insect anatomy. The exhibition features pieces like scalloped aluminum cabinets, glass light fixtures resembling hard candies, and an aluminum and brass headboard with shimmering gold and purple squiggles. Wood's living room is a visual feast, showcasing both her own designs and works by other artists and designers. Notable pieces include the Royal Daybed by Nathalie Du Pasquier and George Sowden, and a circular, jellyfish-like green, yellow, and blue resin lamp by Gaetano Pesce. A woven jacquard tapestry, designed by Wood and inspired by stained-glass windows in Mexico City, covers an entire wall, alongside an earth-toned laminate dining table with geology-inspired marquetry and a totemic light fixture made of stacked beaker-esque forms, produced with Italian glassblower Pietro Viero. Collaboration is central to Wood's practice, and many items in her home are products of partnerships or exchanges. Her collection extends into a narrow hallway adorned with hats and handbags hanging on Murano glass hooks, and artworks covering the walls. Her bedroom features an Ultrafragola mirror by Ettore Sottsass and a neon glass light by Jochen Holz, illuminating a 1970s floral textile acquired during a trip to Brazil. A small, sunny library, dubbed her "room for dreaming," houses art books, animal figurines, glass sculptures, and wooden busts, including a birthday card from her mentor, Martino Gamper. Throughout the apartment, Wood masterfully combines high design with evocative everyday objects found during her travels or at London flea markets. She deliberately positions pieces to create dialogues, such as a multicolored rope mask by Bertjan Pot near a painting of a knight in psychedelic swirls. She also notes the connection between a jar of "pickled" balloons by Saelia Aparicio and a poster by Scottish Pop artist Eduardo Paolozzi, whose motifs she frequently references. Wood's passion for collecting and creating began in childhood, influenced by her mother's accumulation of eclectic items. While her minimalist father preferred these objects to be hidden, Wood's home openly displays her collections, which she views as a material record of her life's experiences, travels, and relationships. Living surrounded by pieces from friends and fellow makers provides her with comfort and connection, especially during times of isolation. #BethanLauraWood #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorfulInteriors #ArtDeco #DesignerHome #ContemporaryDesign #LondonDesign #ArtisticLiving

A French family, upon relocating from the U.S. to the U.K., acquired a traditional Victorian townhouse in London’s Kensington neighborhood. They engaged the multidisciplinary firm OWN London for renovation. A key challenge in the design process was the prominent placement of a 65-inch television screen in the main lounge, which became immediately visible upon entering the narrow entryway. The clients expressed a desire for the television to be less conspicuous. Alícia Meireles, OWN’s head of interior design, aimed to integrate the TV discreetly, drawing on her experience from Soho House where she regularly disguised television sets to create a more atmospheric environment. Meireles initially considered using a vintage tapestry to cover the television, intending to split it into two panels. However, the 65-inch width of the television screen proved problematic, as most vintage tapestries, woven on older looms, typically measured around 30 inches, making them too small for the required coverage. This size constraint led to a decision to commission a custom art piece. Meireles turned to artisans in her native Portugal and found Cristina Santos, an embroiderer known for traditional techniques applied to contemporary designs. The design brief emphasized a sense of freshness and ease, ensuring the artwork would not dominate the room despite its central location. Santos created a pair of abstract works on painted linen, incorporating 17 different types of stitching using colorful wool. The creation of these embroidered panels took approximately five weeks. Upon completion, the embroidered fabric was brought to London, where a local upholsterer meticulously wrapped it around two padded panels, ensuring precise alignment. These finished pieces were then framed in a wooden surround, designed with generous sides to allow for easy handling when opening the panels. The entire system was integrated into a custom unit that also included open shelving, providing space for family photographs and collected objects, thereby enhancing the unit's functional and aesthetic purpose. A millworker devised an invisible mechanism for the panels, featuring a wheel that slides along the top of the shelf, allowing the panels to separate in tandem. A stopper was incorporated to control the opening extent, and a soft-close function was added for smooth operation. The resulting design is robust, highly functional, and has garnered admiration from visitors, creating a notable "wow effect" when the television is revealed. This bespoke solution effectively hides the television, transforming it into an artistic feature when not in use. #InteriorDesign #HiddenTV #VictorianTownhouse #CustomArtwork #FiberArt #LondonLivingRoom #HomeRenovation #DesignSolution #LuxuryHome

Lenleys Home, an independent, family-run furnishing business, is approaching its 90th anniversary, having been established in 1936 by Lavinia Watts’ grandfather and his business partner in Canterbury. Lavinia, now the third generation to lead the business alongside her cousin, reflects on its enduring legacy and adaptation within a changing retail landscape. The company maintains core values of excellent customer service, quality products, and reasonable prices, while continuously modernizing its offerings. The business prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of home furnishings, including a dedicated flooring and interiors department that handles curtains, blinds, awnings, wallpapers, and fabrics. This allows customers to complete full renovations under one roof with expert guidance. Lavinia’s entry into the interiors world was influenced by growing up around the furniture industry, with her father running the business and her mother possessing a keen eye for interiors. Her academic background in fashion further honed her interest in colors, trends, and consumer journeys. Lavinia shares insights into her favorite and least favorite projects. She enjoyed introducing high-end furniture ranges like Duresta in collaboration with Matthew Williamson, known for bright colors and extravagant prints. The rebranding of Lenleys Home in Canterbury and Maidstone was a rewarding, albeit time-consuming, endeavor. More recently, she organized a successful independent makers market in the Canterbury showroom to support local artisans during the Christmas period. Her least favorite memory is the challenging period of closing showrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time marked by uncertainty and the heavy responsibility of navigating an 84-year-old business through unprecedented times. When asked about famous homes she'd like to explore, Lavinia expresses a desire to see Sophie Robinson's home for its pattern clashing and bold colors, and Victoria Beckham's home, which she imagines to be incredibly polished and sophisticated. She finds inspiration for her work from various sources, including international trade shows in Paris and Milan. Her fashion background also prompts her to observe emerging fashion trends, which often filter into the interiors and furniture sectors, albeit at a slower pace. Social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are valuable resources for style ideas, and she continuously seeks inspiration from hotel and restaurant interiors, and small independent stores during her travels. The buying aspect and the opportunity to travel are among her favorite parts of the job, along with working with her family and the dedicated wider team. Despite her professional immersion in interiors, her own home life with a toddler and another baby on the way means her personal interior design projects are often secondary. Her favorite rooms include her dining room, characterized by a ceramic table with pops of color from artwork, and her bedroom, a calming space with high ceilings, natural light, earthy tones, and natural fibers, featuring a comfortable Vispring bed. Lavinia concludes by offering ten tips for home design, emphasizing the importance of physically experiencing investment pieces, having a clear vision, consulting experts, planning layouts, defining a color scheme with accent colors, trusting instincts, testing samples, using rugs for impact, painting skirting boards the same color as walls for a sense of height, and supporting local businesses. #LenleysHome #FamilyBusiness #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #CanterburyRetail #DesignExpertise #RetailLegacy #HomeDecor #LaviniaWatts

Caroline Flack, host of Love Island, showcases her trendy London apartment, revealing a blend of vintage and modern interior design elements. The article highlights key features of her home, reflecting her personal style, which is described as stylish, fun, and fearless. Upon entering the apartment, a notable feature is the kitchen, which combines vintage aesthetics with modern design. A candy pink Smeg fridge serves as a central retro accessory, adding a pop of color, complemented by black and white geometric tiles. The kitchen also features a statement rug, a Diane von Furstenburg design from The Rug Company, indicating a luxurious touch. The apartment is shared with her pets, Ruby the dog and Waffles the cat, both of whom frequently appear in her social media posts. The home boasts spaciousness, characterized by herringbone flooring, high ceilings, and an open-plan staircase that leads to the upper levels. Despite a predominantly minimal color palette, Flack strategically incorporates vibrant colors to create visual interest in various areas, such as bright red cushions on the staircase and a vase of feathers. Her eye for detail is evident in the arrangement of prints, furniture, and mirrors throughout the space. Several images reveal additional aspects of her home, including quirky wooden shelving units, a bench-style dining table, and a hint of a chaise lounge. The consistent theme of color and print, particularly various shades of pink, is observed across multiple rooms. The apartment features a split-level design with ample natural light provided by high ceilings and numerous skylights. A mezzanine level offers views of the downstairs area, and unique cubby holes overlook the hallway from the seating area. Flack's bold artistic preferences are displayed through various wall art pieces, including a sign that reads "It’s Rude To Stare" and a vintage poster. Even her front door is painted a vibrant shade of pink, further emphasizing her distinctive style. The article emphasizes how Flack's personal taste, which she often switches up, is directly translated into her living environment, creating a home that is both unique and dynamic. #CarolineFlack #LondonHome #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #HomeDecor #RetroDesign #PinkInteriors #QuirkyPrints #LoveIsland