Tour a London-Based Designer’s Victorian Renovation That Flows From the Indoors Out

This article highlights the transformation of a modest Victorian terrace house in Bath, conceptualized and executed by interior designer Sean Symington. Initially a dilapidated student accommodation, the property has been reimagined into a vibrant, colorful home that challenges conventional design norms. Symington's design philosophy centers on integrating unexpected elements, such as combining country-style items with contemporary lines, as exemplified by a scalloped banquette and tulip table in his kitchen diner. The house's exterior, made of light Bath stone, provides a stark contrast to its kaleidoscopic interior. Upon first viewing, the house presented numerous challenges, including a cramped layout with a bed in almost every room and a 1970s lean-to extension. Symington, however, recognized its potential. He opted to maintain the sitting room as a distinct formal living space, reflecting his preference for separate entertaining areas. The renovation involved significant structural reconfigurations. The ground floor bathroom was converted into a cloakroom and utility area, while an upstairs bedroom was partitioned to create a new bathroom, optimizing space without compromising functionality. The outdated lean-to was replaced with an airy, glass-roofed extension that required digging down to achieve suitable ceiling height. Furthermore, a loft conversion was undertaken to add a bright new bedroom with ample built-in storage on the top floor. Maximizing space was a crucial aspect of the design. For instance, in the main bedroom, the chimney breast was widened to accommodate a king-size bed, allowing for a full wall of wardrobes and ensuring the headboard faces the entrance, a design choice favored by Symington. The kitchen-dining-living area serves as the home's central hub, featuring a Bath stone fire surround that frames the range. Despite space constraints, Symington incorporated extensive storage, including a large kitchen island equipped with a dishwasher and sink. Alcove units flanking the range conceal a microwave and coffee station, with their interiors painted a deep red to provide an unexpected burst of color when opened. Color and pattern are fundamental to Symington's design aesthetic, with a deliberate flow of pinks, blues, and greens throughout the house. The sitting room embraces eclectic maximalism, blending modern interpretations of stately home style with bold blue walls, pastel pink accents, and playful prints, all harmonized by a traditional portrait. The extension continues this theme, featuring a striking checkerboard floor and a palette of pinks and blues. Dining and sitting areas, rich in pattern, are balanced by warm white walls. A notable feature in this area is a fish-themed artwork that cleverly disguises a television. Symington's meticulous curation and adept blending of colors and patterns extend to even the smallest spaces, such as the cloakroom, where a Pierre Frey fabric motif is used as a statement wallpaper, tying the overall design together. The article concludes with an interview with Sean Symington, where he discusses his biggest indulgence (window treatments and upholstery), his greatest success (transforming the dark and cold kitchen into an open area), his design hero (Miles Redd), and his belief that home should evoke feelings of safety, warmth, comfort, and happiness. He also shares his passion for antique shopping, particularly at Lorfords and Brownrigg in Tetbury. #VictorianHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ColorSchemes #PatternMixing #MaximalistDecor #SpaceOptimization #KitchenDesign #HomeTours

This article provides a detailed tour of a Victorian semi-detached house located in south-east London, showcasing various decorating ideas and design choices implemented throughout its update. The property features a hallway, living room, open-plan kitchen-diner, cloakroom, four bedrooms, a bathroom, and a shower room. The exterior of the house maintains its traditional brick wall and black slate roof. Inside, the living room is designed with a serene ambiance, characterized by a large monochrome rug and vibrant pink accents that add a pop of color against white walls. The furniture selection blends mid-century modern pieces with vintage items, creating a utilitarian feel. Key items in the living room include a rug from Ikea and a floor lamp from Sainsbury's. The living space was expanded by combining two smaller living rooms into one open-plan area, with furniture strategically arranged to define natural zones. Lighting is provided by a lamp from Lights 4 Living, and several pieces of furniture, including a lamp, chairs, and a table, were upcycled by Imperfect Interiors. The kitchen features painted cabinetry, marble counters, and pale-colored metro tiles, contributing to a clean and simple aesthetic. The kitchen units were sanded down and repainted, and customized tongue-and-groove end panels were added. A practical built-in banquette with seat pads and floral fabric is also present. The tiles used in the kitchen are from Fired Earth. Adjoining the kitchen is the dining area, where built-in banquette seating maximizes space efficiency. A rectangular dining table is chosen to accommodate multiple people without encroaching too much on the floor area. The dining space is adorned with pretty bench and scatter cushions, along with a patchwork rug, which introduce patterns in subtle shades. The dining chair is from The Conran Shop, and a box wall light is from Heal's. Moving to the bedrooms, the guest bedroom offers a relaxed, modern-country atmosphere. It features a floral bedspread, a vintage sofa, and an eclectic assortment of accessories. Neutral walls allow unique, design-led pieces and curios to stand out. An Ikea rug is also found in this room. The main bedroom employs a subtle palette of pale greys and off-whites to foster a peaceful environment. A feature fireplace with a stylish overmantel mirror serves as a focal point. The bed is sourced from Sofa.com, and a floor lamp is from Habitat. Finally, the bathroom is designed with tongue-and-groove panelling and geometric tiling, which complement the traditional fittings. Glazed cabinets are incorporated to add a decorative element. The tiles are from Topps Tiles, and the bath is from Victoria Plumb. The article aims to inspire readers with practical and aesthetic home decoration and design choices demonstrated in this updated London home. #PeriodHouse #LondonHome #VictorianRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #BedroomDecor #BathroomDesign

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

In Toronto's historic Forest Hill neighborhood, architect Abraham Chan of AC-DO undertook a significant renovation for a New York City transplant family, blending their previous Greenwich Village loft's contemporary aesthetic with a preserved Tudor façade and Victorian architectural elements. The project aimed to create a functional and stylish home for a family with three young daughters, focusing on a design philosophy described as “business in the front, party in the back.” The original layout of the house presented a challenge with its maze-like arrangement of numerous small rooms. Chan addressed this by demolishing a pantry wall, thereby opening up the first floor. This strategic modification transformed the space, dedicating the front area to entertaining and guest hosting, while an open family room, anchored by a breakfast nook, was established in the back. This created a more fluid and interconnected living experience, essential for a growing family. While embracing contemporary furnishings and design accents, Chan was careful to respect the historical integrity of the house. He preserved original architectural details, such as crown molding in several rooms and hallways, to maintain the home’s inherent character and provide a link to its Victorian past. This approach ensured that the modern interventions complemented, rather than overshadowed, the existing period features. Lighting was meticulously planned, with barely visible recessed lights featuring hidden trim taps providing ambient illumination where needed. In contrast, sculptural, statement-making pieces from the clients' existing art collection were integrated to serve as focal points. A notable example is found in the main bedroom, where alabaster lamps, shaped like flower petals, are positioned by a window. These fixtures introduce nature-inspired textures and patterns, offering a soft contrast to the more utilitarian lighting found elsewhere in the house. Custom design elements further personalize the space. The main bedroom features a hand-painted wallpaper by Moss & Lam that spans an entire wall, creating the illusion of an extended headboard and adding a unique artistic touch. In the spa-inspired main bedroom ensuite, marble-clad limestone was utilized, contributing to a sense of luxury and tranquility. The dining room's wood floor incorporates patterns reminiscent of the family’s former New York City home, adding a subtle nod to their past while establishing continuity within the new residence. The home was designed with communication and family interaction in mind, incorporating various zones for leisure and work. It includes a home theater, a gym, and an office. The kitchen offers views into the TV room and backyard, fostering a sense of connection across different areas. Seating configurations in the study and living room are arranged to encourage conversation and togetherness. An HVAC system was installed in the basement media room, prioritizing safety and cleanliness. The comprehensive design ensures ample space and sophisticated style for the family of five, effectively merging their contemporary preferences with the charm of a historic Toronto residence. #ResidentialDesign #VictorianArchitecture #LoftConversion #InteriorRenovation #FamilyHome #TorontoDesign #ModernInteriors #CustomDesign

This article details the transformation of a dilapidated Victorian dairy in London into a modern family home, featuring a spectacular Parisian-style courtyard garden and a soft-toned interior. Interior designer Beth Dadswell, founder of Imperfect Interiors, and her husband, Andrew, a graphic designer, undertook the renovation, turning a property with a collapsing roof, damp, and no natural light into a bright and inviting space. The design carefully preserved the building's industrial character while introducing modern elements. The transformation involved converting dark, damp areas into light-filled living spaces. The couple drew inspiration from hidden gardens found behind old buildings in Paris, integrating two vertical courtyard gardens to maximize natural light and views. Extensive use of steel windows and doors frames these garden views, making them a central feature of the home. The material palette is intentionally limited, featuring un-lacquered brass, plaster, and concrete, which elegantly complement the existing industrial aesthetic. Key areas of the home, such as the kitchen, underwent significant changes. The kitchen, once a windowless fridge, now boasts restored original joists and walls painted in a soft calamine pink. Simple utilitarian cabinetry in the kitchen and dining area is balanced by pale pink Zellige tiles and a striking chandelier, adding a touch of elegance. This color and material scheme extends into the study, which overlooks one of the courtyards, creating a cohesive flow throughout the ground floor. On the first floor, two bedrooms and two bathrooms were incorporated into the original footprint. The design upstairs continues the aesthetic established downstairs, with simple grey paneling, pale pink tiles, and brass detailing ensuring a consistent and harmonious scheme. A shower room, completely clad in Zellige tiles, exemplifies understated luxury, further showcasing the designer's attention to detail and material choices. Beth Dadswell’s work on this project demonstrates how a historic industrial building can be reimagined as a contemporary, comfortable home without losing its unique charm. The emphasis on natural light, Parisian-inspired courtyards, and a curated palette of materials creates a serene and stylish living environment. The integration of modern design with preserved industrial features highlights a thoughtful approach to renovation, making the home both functional and aesthetically pleasing. #VictorianDairyConversion #LondonHome #CourtyardGarden #ImperfectInteriors #ModernHomeDesign #IndustrialChic #ParisianStyle #InteriorRenovation #ZelligeTiles

Studio McW undertook the extension and redesign of the lower ground floor of Threshold House, a semi-detached, split-level Victorian residence situated in London's De Beauvoir neighborhood. The project's primary objective was to expand the dwelling to accommodate extended hospitality and to introduce a greater connection to the rear garden through a sunken, brick-lined courtyard. The existing lower ground floor, characterized by a series of fragmented spaces and limited access to natural light, presented a significant design challenge. The clients, a couple with a strong affinity for hosting guests, sought a living environment that would foster social interaction and provide versatile spaces for both large gatherings and intimate moments. They also desired a seamless transition between the interior and exterior, a connection that was notably absent in the original layout. Studio McW's design response involved a strategic reorganization of the internal program and a thoughtful integration of a new outdoor area. The intervention focused on creating a coherent flow throughout the lower level, enhancing natural light penetration, and establishing a direct visual and physical link to the garden. The addition of a sunken courtyard not only introduced a verdant outlook but also served to define a new threshold between the renovated interior and the re-landscaped exterior. This courtyard, clad in brickwork, acts as an extension of the internal living areas, providing an additional space for relaxation and entertainment. Material selection played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic and tactile qualities of the redesigned spaces. Studio McW opted for a palette of natural and durable materials, including exposed brick, concrete, and timber, to create a sense of warmth and permanence. The use of brick, in particular, establishes a continuity with the Victorian architectural heritage of the house while introducing a contemporary sensibility. Large expanses of glazing were incorporated to maximize natural light and offer uninterrupted views of the courtyard and garden, further blurring the boundaries between inside and out. The reconfigured lower ground floor now comprises a spacious open-plan living area, a modern kitchen, and dining facilities, all designed to facilitate social engagement. The layout allows for flexible furniture arrangements, accommodating a range of activities from casual family meals to more formal entertaining. The project successfully transforms a previously underutilized and disconnected basement level into a vibrant and inviting heart of the home, tailored to the clients' lifestyle and their passion for hospitality. The thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape design has resulted in a dwelling that not only meets the functional needs of its occupants but also enriches their daily experience. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #LondonArchitecture #StudioMcW #VictorianHome #InteriorDesign #CourtyardDesign #ArchitecturalExtension #UnitedKingdom

Freehaus, a north London architectural studio, has recently completed the renovation and extension of an early Victorian terraced house in Hackney, East London. The project aimed to transform the existing structure into a family home that balances minimalist aesthetics with practical functionality, specifically tailored to the clients' needs. The design prioritized creating a central kitchen area that serves as the heart of the home, offering clear views across the ground floor and into the garden to accommodate a young family of four. This approach focused on fostering connectivity between living spaces, catering to daily activities such as play, work, and relaxation. The architects implemented several key interventions to achieve their vision. They opened up communal areas to enhance flow and spaciousness, and added a kitchen extension featuring a 720mm deep cantilevered floating kitchen drawer unit by Big Little Projects. The material palette was deliberately kept simple and versatile, predominantly utilizing oak and marble to maintain a crisp, minimalist aesthetic. To visually delineate between the original structure and the new additions, darker brick was used for the rear volume of the extension. This thoughtful use of materials not only contributes to the aesthetic but also helps to articulate the home's evolution. Despite the project's seemingly straightforward outcome, the architects faced significant challenges, particularly in navigating the strict conservation area policies of Hackney. The design, which sought to maximize the extent of change to the property, initially encountered resistance during the planning application process. Consent was only granted after an appeal, highlighting the complexities involved in undertaking renovations in historically protected areas. This experience underscores the need for meticulous planning and engagement with regulatory bodies in such projects. Freehaus, though a relatively young firm, has established a notable presence in the architectural landscape, securing commissions for prominent projects like London's African Centre and the refurbishment of Bahlsen's historic headquarters in Germany. The studio views residential projects as a significant area of potential, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach with clients. For this East London home, the clients, who are actively involved in creative fields, contributed significantly to the design discussions, bringing ideas such as the floating kitchen counter that introduced lightness and playfulness to the space. This collaborative dynamic was crucial to the project's success, demonstrating that the most impactful residential designs often emerge from a partnership between architects and homeowners. The completed home exemplifies a successful blend of architectural vision and client collaboration, resulting in a residence that is both aesthetically refined and deeply functional for its inhabitants. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design, even within the constraints of existing structures and regulatory frameworks, can deliver spaces that are modest in appearance but rich in spatial quality and tailored to contemporary family living. #LondonArchitecture #VictorianRenovation #FamilyHomeDesign #MinimalistInterior #KitchenExtension #MaterialPalette #ConservationArea #CollaborativeDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #Freehaus

This article details the extensive renovation of a Victorian house in London by Charly and Jonny, a couple with two young children. The house had remained untouched for nearly four decades, presenting a significant challenge that the family embraced with a desire to blend beauty with utility and avoid conventional design trends. They enlisted the help of Smith Brooke Architects and interior designer Emma Ainscough to create a home that is both personal and highly functional. A central aim of the renovation was to ensure that every room was utilized, eschewing the idea of spaces reserved only for special occasions. The couple sought to maintain a sense of playfulness while achieving visual cohesion, exploring various patterns and colors throughout the home. Although they preserved and reinstated many original Victorian features, such as cornices, sash windows, and high ceilings, they also made several bold design decisions. One significant change involved replacing an old, impractical conservatory at the rear of the house. Instead of a ground-floor kitchen extension, a side extension was built to accommodate a new entrance for practical items like bikes and strollers. A lower-ground-floor extension featuring elegant arches was also added, reflecting Charly's preference for rounded architecture and a softer aesthetic, drawing inspiration from English country homes. This design choice was complemented by other subtle elements, such as a curved garden path. Architect Lucy Brooke proposed relocating the kitchen from the new extension to the upper floor, creating a combined kitchen-dining area by knocking through existing spaces. The new extension now houses the sitting room, study, utility room, and playroom, all connected by floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This strategic reallocation of space prompted Emma Ainscough to carefully consider how to integrate the new and old sections of the house harmoniously. She aimed to differentiate the spaces while ensuring they remained visually connected, resulting in a refined color palette in the sitting room alongside vibrant touches, such as powder blue cabinetry in the playroom. The home is filled with thoughtful details that contribute to its warmth and softness. Examples include zellige tiles and antique pendant lights in the kitchen, and a checkerboard countertop in the utility room, a recurring pattern that also appears in the sitting room's rug. The design prioritized functionality but also focused on the desired emotional feel of each room, allowing for creative material choices beyond purely utilitarian finishes. Family-friendly decorative elements are evident throughout, such as a durable, patterned, and striped sofa in the kitchen area, designed to withstand daily family life. The study features subtly patterned wallpaper contrasting with a modern frameless window. In the children’s bedrooms, space under the eaves was cleverly utilized to create storage and whimsical reading nooks. Unique, custom-made Delft tiles around the bathroom entrance depict personal symbols like ice cream cones, bears, and even Queen Elizabeth II, adding a touch of patriotism. A repurposed Neptune library cabinet from their previous home was integrated into the dressing nook for storing bags and shoes. Ultimately, the renovation represents a significant step forward in the family's design journey, reflecting increased confidence and a new stage in their lives. The bold and considered approach to combining old and new elements, along with a focus on both beauty and utility, has resulted in a charming and deeply personal family home. #VictorianHouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #KitchenDesign #PlayroomDesign #CustomTiles #ModernVictorian

Binh and Thomas Allen, a couple with no prior property development experience, embarked on an ambitious three-year renovation of an untouched Victorian terrace in West Dulwich, South London. They discovered a property built in the early 1900s with many original features still intact, a rarity in today's market, and were captivated by its inherent charm. Their vision for the home was to blend its historical Victorian elements with modern mid-century furniture and contemporary furnishings, a reflection of their diverse backgrounds—Binh from Vietnam and Thomas from Switzerland. The renovation was not without significant challenges. The couple chose to live in the house throughout the process, even enduring a period where their roof was removed for a loft conversion. This meant sharing their living space with builders six days a week and contending with constant dust and exposure to the elements, including birds flying into their bedroom through the open roof. Despite these difficulties, their belief in their dream home never wavered. They meticulously managed the project themselves, from sourcing all materials and furnishings to keeping a strict handle on the budget, a task at which Thomas excelled with his detailed spreadsheets. A key motivation for purchasing a "doer-upper" was to maximize their investment. They began with essential upgrades, such as installing a new boiler and removing outdated carpeting. The renovation was phased over three years due to budget constraints. In the second year, they tackled bathroom renovations, and by the third year, they undertook the two most significant projects: the loft conversion and the kitchen remodeling. They gathered ideas by attending local open house sales, which also helped them understand the precedents for loft conversions and extensions in their area, aiding in the planning permission process. For the loft conversion, they hired a builder with the understanding that they would procure all materials themselves. This hands-on approach resulted in a 20 percent saving on the overall cost, and they learned to negotiate prices effectively. Although the work fell under permitted development, they enlisted an architect specializing in period properties to creatively maximize the space and ensure a premium finish. The architect designed a master suite without compromising ceiling height by strengthening existing joists and adding new ones, avoiding the need for steel beams that would have reduced headroom. They also used the opportunity of scaffolding to repaint windows, repoint, install solar panels, and repair exterior damage. The kitchen renovation involved removing a chimney breast to create space for units, taking out the back wall, and installing Crittall doors. They opted for long and wide timber floorboards to enhance the sense of space and a Shaker-style kitchen with brass details for an urban country aesthetic. Cost savings were achieved by selecting a marble-inspired matte worktop made from natural, recyclable materials, with an offcut used to create a feature shelf. Their patio design was inspired by travertine tiles seen on holiday in Israel, chosen for their creamy, warm appearance and minimalist, Mediterranean feel. They also installed a home office/cinema room in the garden, a multifunctional retreat surrounded by greenery. Inside, they maintained a consistent blue and white color palette, restored original Victorian cornices and ceiling roses, and chose a mix of modern and antique furnishings to create a unique character without being overly traditional. The entrance hall's original Victorian tiles were preserved, with broken ones replaced by matching imitation tiles, and the front door's frosted glass was replaced with stained glass inspired by the floor tiles. The bathroom features reclaimed period tiles from Spain, contrasted with white wall tiles and paint, accommodating a large shower and freestanding bath. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #LoftConversion #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #PeriodProperty #HomeImprovement #LondonRealEstate

Emily Pun, an interior architect, and her partner, Jono Taylor, undertook a significant renovation of a dilapidated three-bedroom Victorian terrace in East Ham, East London. The couple, who relocated to the UK in 2017, decided to move from their two-bedroom Georgian maisonette in Leyton during the pandemic, driven by a desire for more space, a larger garden, and a creative project. Despite a limited budget, they focused on areas of East London with potential and found a neglected Victorian terrace that, despite damp and mold issues and having been rented out to multiple tenants, had elegant proportions and a good-sized garden suitable for an extension. Their vision was to create a balanced and cohesive home where every space flowed naturally. To achieve this, they collaborated with architect Marilena Walton to design a side and rear wraparound extension, expanding the kitchen to the full width of the house and creating a seamless connection to the garden. This extension incorporated semi-recessed sliding doors, a built-in window seat, and a side-pitched roof with exposed oak beams to enhance height and natural light. They moved into the house in July 2022, and while living there, they began preliminary work on the main bedroom and living room, stripping them back, sanding floorboards, and reinstating period features like cornicing and ceiling roses. A notable achievement was restoring an original slate fire surround and repositioning it in their bedroom as a focal point. Upon the arrival of their build team, the main renovation phase commenced, lasting 20 weeks. During this period, Emily and Jono moved out but maintained weekly site visits to ensure design details were executed to a high standard, actively participating where possible. The new kitchen became a central feature, featuring a dedicated utility area with open shelving and strategic doors and walkways to create a circular flow downstairs. Emily selected red and black reclaimed quarry tiles for the flooring, intending them to be a focal point, complemented by warm oak-fronted cabinetry and durable quartz worktops. The outdoor space was equally important. Working with gardener Susanna Grant, they meticulously leveled the garden to create a smooth transition from the sliding doors to the patio. The garden was designed with pavers weaving through greenery and wildflowers, and a bespoke oak bench and large planter (which also serves as storage) were added to complete the integrated look. The rest of the house received comprehensive upgrades, including new double-glazed timber sash windows, updated electrics, and plumbing. For the interior, Emily embraced the north-facing living room's natural darkness by painting it a moody green and incorporating natural textures. The home's overall neutral palette was enlivened with earthy color accents and thoughtfully chosen art and furniture. Emily reflected on the renovation process, acknowledging that it pushed them to their limits but also deepened her passion for interior design. This experience inspired her to establish her company, Den, to assist others in their renovation journeys, aiming to provide guidance and support throughout the design and construction phases. The couple expressed immense pride in their transformed home, finding the evolution of their living space deeply rewarding and motivating to extend their expertise to others. #VictorianTerrace #HomeRenovation #EastLondon #InteriorDesign #KitchenExtension #GardenRedesign #PeriodFeatures #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorArchitecture

This article explores the renovation philosophy of designer Mark Lewis, who prioritizes respecting the existing architecture and age of a property rather than striving for a new, shiny aesthetic. Lewis, who founded his eponymous firm in 2008 and later launched a home store specializing in sand-cast bronze hardware, emphasizes the difficulty of finding finishes that appear aged, leading him to create his own. His guiding principle is to avoid anything that "screams 'shiny.'" The renovation of Lewis's Victorian row home in North London exemplifies this approach. In 2010, he and his partner, Abi Leland, began by purchasing the garden-level apartment and patiently waited five years to acquire the unit above, recognizing its value for their expansion plans. An extensive eight-month remodel followed, during which they moved out with their two children, James and Olive. The renovation involved integrating the two apartments, creating a striking double-height space with triptych windows overlooking the backyard. A distinctive feature of Lewis's design is the absence of a kitchen island and upper cabinets. His goal is for the kitchen to appear as freestanding as possible, as if it could be moved. To align with the house's historical era, he installed base cabinets along a single wall, extending approximately 8 meters, and mounted floating shelves precisely 55 centimeters from the countertop. These base cabinets are finished with an aged paint effect and feature hand-cast bronze cup handles. The kitchen space also incorporates functional elements like task lighting under concrete slabs, providing a soft glow, and a separate walk-in pantry designed to evoke a sense of stepping back 70 years, filled with fresh produce and minimal packaging. The living room reflects Lewis's aversion to modern technology, specifically televisions. Instead of a "black box," the cozy space features a wood-burning stove. For family movie nights or sports viewing, they utilize his son James's bedroom, which houses a large television. Olive's smaller room necessitated creative storage solutions, leading Lewis to design a custom built-in bunk bed with drawers that fits seamlessly into an alcove, topped with a slightly undersized twin mattress. The bedrooms are adorned with wallpapers from Robert Kime and painted in shades like Little Greene's French Grey and Normandy Grey, with furniture and accessories from Mark Lewis Home Store and Conran Shop. Lewis's favorite part of the house is the primary bathroom, which includes a fireplace to ensure warmth after using the cast-iron tub. He sourced the Art Nouveau-style mantel from a salvage shop, a significant investment at the time that he now cherishes. A vintage French chair in the corner has been updated with a brightly colored felt cushion by artist Laura Lees. Lewis demonstrates a keen eye for finding vintage pieces, with blackened steel stair railings held by antique brass screws and a powder bathroom that combines reclaimed tiles, the home's original brick, and wood from a previous kitchen floor, resulting in a unique blend of textures that appear to have been part of the house for centuries. His design ethos consistently aims to imbue new elements with an appearance of age and history, respecting the inherent character of the property. #HomeRenovation #VintageDesign #InteriorDesign #VictorianHome #AgedFinishes #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #CustomFurniture #NorthLondon

This article details a renovation project by London-based firm LLI Design, focusing on a Victorian townhouse in North London. The project aimed to infuse modern style while restoring period-appropriate elements that had been stripped away in previous renovations. The primary focus of the redesign was a windowed kitchen extension that fully opens to the garden, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The previous state of the Victorian townhouse lacked its original character, as earlier renovations had removed many historical details. LLI Design meticulously reintroduced these elements, starting with the front fanlight window, which was adorned with stained glass. The entry hall received vintage black and white tiles, re-establishing a sense of historical authenticity right from the entrance of the home. These subtle yet significant changes contributed to restoring the townhouse's original charm and aesthetic. Inside, the living room also underwent significant transformations. Outdated cabinetry was replaced with custom-built shelving units, carefully designed to flank the fireplace, providing both functionality and a refreshed aesthetic. The old mantle was removed and replaced with a more traditional marble fireplace surround, further enhancing the room's classic appeal. The flooring throughout the living spaces was updated with light herringbone-patterned floors, which successfully blended historical charm with a contemporary feel, bridging the gap between the home's past and present. The kitchen, however, stands out as the centerpiece of this renovation. It was completely revamped with new pale gray cabinets that offer a sleek and modern look, complemented by crisp white countertops. The most striking feature of the kitchen is its entire rear wall, which is composed of large-paned windows framed in dark gray aluminum. These windows are designed to open completely, transforming the kitchen and dining area into an open-air space that directly connects to the garden. This innovative design allows for an abundance of natural light and ventilation, creating a bright, airy, and inviting atmosphere that blurs the lines between the interior and exterior environments. This renovation exemplifies how modern architectural interventions can respect and enhance historical properties. By carefully reintroducing period details while integrating contemporary design elements, LLI Design successfully transformed the Victorian townhouse into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The emphasis on opening the interior spaces to the garden not only enhances the living experience but also creates a unique connection to the outdoors, making the home more adaptable to modern lifestyles while preserving its inherent character. #VictorianTownhouse #HomeRenovation #LondonArchitecture #InteriorDesign #KitchenExtension #GardenConnection #LLIDesign #ModernStyle #PeriodDetails

This article highlights the transformation of a 1940s Federal-style house in Nashville’s Belle Meade, which was updated by interior designer Yancey Shearouse of Yancey Seibert Shearouse Interiors. The design drew inspiration from the client Hailey Stone's fashion sensibilities, characterized by bold patterns, bright colors, and chic silhouettes, while also incorporating her husband Bryan's preference for classic, tailored styles. The challenge was to blend these differing aesthetics into a cohesive and personalized living space. The design strategy involved integrating a variety of wallcoverings, fabrics, and rugs featuring floral, geometric, and abstract motifs, with some playful elements like feathers and cowboy boots. These elements are executed in a vibrant color palette encompassing greens, blues, pinks, purples, reds, and oranges. The visual richness of these textiles is balanced by the home's foundational elements, such as hardwood floors, classic white trim, and stately millwork. Family heirlooms and antique-inspired furnishings further ground the design, creating a blend of contemporary and timeless styles. Art plays a significant role in the home's character, reflecting the couple's shared passion for collecting contemporary pieces. Shearouse ensured that the interior design provided an ideal backdrop for these cherished artworks, which are considered central to making the house feel like a home. The article then details specific rooms, showcasing how this design philosophy was applied throughout the 4,500-square-foot residence. In the living room, brilliant blue accents, including a velvet throw pillow, sculptural lamp base, and drapery trim, punctuate green expanses. A diamond-design rug in spicy pinks, oranges, and ambers introduces warmth, complementing Andy Warhol licensed prints. The kitchen features an all-white scheme with a riveted lap seam range hood as a focal point, softened by circular pendants and cane barrel-backed counter stools. Café curtains in the kitchen match the full-length drapes in the adjacent family room, ensuring design continuity. The dining room embraces fun with feathery wallcovering and sumptuous pink drapes, adding a celebratory and whimsical touch to the formal space. Louis Phillipe-style mirrors and Directoire-inspired commodes are updated with crisp white paint, gold leaf accents, and brass hardware. Vintage dining chairs from a Palm Beach estate sale are paired with Bryan’s grandmother’s antique dining table, with the original 1940s crystal chandelier maintained. The entryway introduces the home's color palette through a green and white Anna French wallcovering, a jewel-toned vintage runner, and an electric blue Schumacher ottoman. Federalist architectural details, like fanciful door transoms, were preserved, and art by Angela Chruschiaki Blehm is displayed alongside mixed media pieces. The family room presents a classic arrangement with a contemporary twist, featuring oversized lamps, an abstract painting by AK Hardeman, and a sleek waterfall-profile wood coffee table. High-voltage pinks and blues provide pops of color against a more muted palette. The primary bedroom utilizes ethereal blues for a quietly colorful atmosphere. A Modern History poster bed’s strong silhouette is softened by white linens, floral pillows, and a scallop-framed settee. A gilt-framed abstract by Alexis Walter and Visual Comfort lamps complement the bed’s delicate gold leaf details. Finally, the primary bathroom showcases pattern play with marble mosaic tile flooring and subway tile shower walls. Brass fixtures and vibrant art by Emyo bring warmth against the marble and blue Lee Jofa wallcovering. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #NashvilleHome #FashionInspiredDecor #BoldColors #EclecticStyle #ArtCollection #YanceyShearouse

James Mercer, the singer-songwriter for The Shins, and his wife, garden designer Marisa Kula Mercer, enlisted designer Jessica Helgerson to refresh their 130-year-old Queen Anne Victorian home in Portland, Oregon. The Mercers sought to update their home for modern living while preserving its historical integrity and original charm. Their property, a former hazelnut orchard spanning nearly an acre, features 300-year-old Douglas fir trees and gardens designed by Marisa, who draws inspiration from English gardens like Great Dixter House & Gardens. The remodel, which spanned 12 years, focused on incremental changes rather than a complete overhaul. The initial challenge involved redesigning the kitchen. Helgerson's team enlarged the space by absorbing a former screened porch, ensuring it remained proportionally aligned with Victorian-era kitchens. The design incorporated antique light fixtures, cream-colored wall tiles, and a Lacanche range set within a niche, evoking the feel of an old hearth. The kitchen island was designed on legs, resembling a case piece, to maintain appropriate scale. One significant alteration was dividing the voluminous primary suite to create a dedicated dressing room. This new space features a Calacatta Viola marble-topped vanity and recessed paneling with decorative elements, aligning with the Victorian emphasis on ornamentation. The family also sought to improve the home's connection to the outdoors, a feature largely absent in the original layout. Helgerson designed a karaoke room, addressing its previously erratic ceiling structure. She employed an architectural solution by painting a green crown molding in a clean, rectangular shape to define the space and manage the 'wandering' ceiling. A custom built-in sofa with a deep cushion and a tiled window sill serving as a conservatory for houseplants were incorporated into this room, providing both comfort and functionality. James Mercer also contributed personal DIY touches to the home. He used rope to level floorboards in the former horse stable, now a music studio, and constructed Marisa's garden shed based on a vintage Sears catalog image. A distinctive, quirky detail includes plastic spiders hot-glued to ceiling medallions and painted over, creating the illusion of being permanently trapped. The overall design philosophy aimed to blend modern functionality with the inherent character of the historic Queen Anne style, maintaining the home's original nicks and scratches as part of its charm. #HomeRenovation #VictorianArchitecture #InteriorDesign #QueenAnneStyle #HistoricPreservation #GardenDesign #KitchenRemodel #PortlandHomes #CelebrityHomes

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