The grand proportions of the rooms (the flat is one of four within a large converted period property) and Location Location Location (next to Wimbledon Common and a short walk from Wimbledon Village) attracted the owners to the property over forty years ago. A change in circumstance prompted the transformation and modernisation of this home.
A small and separate kitchen was the springboard for the project. Our client entertains a lot and wanted her kitchen to be within an open plan space so that she could enjoy her guests’ company without being in a separate room to them. As we re-designed the lower floor, we studied how our client lived, to ensure that what we designed would meet her needs. It became obvious during the design process that given the extent of works on the lower floor it would make sense to tackle the entire property. On the upper floor we created three bedrooms suites, each designed around different decorative themes and working with different architectural challenges. Part of the brief involved balancing the antique pieces (largely inherited and not all to our client’s taste) with the contemporary styles our client loved, including a desire to inject a lot of colour. We were responsible for all aspects of the project, including planning applications, tendering to contractors, managing the contractors, designing bespoke joinery and specifying all final finishes.
We designed this unusually tall and shallow floor to ceiling unit to conceal the gas meter and associated pipework which could not be re-located. We made a virtue of its location, creating visual impact at the entrance to the property, whilst providing day to day purpose without physically intruding on the space.
During the early stages of the project, we looked at any opportunities to create a dedicated work space. It became clear that a separate 'Study' would not be possible without sacrificing other more important spaces. Instead our client now uses the Kitchen island and dining table as flexible work spaces for laptop work, and we made use of the large hallway to house associated paraphernalia. The antique bureau is used when the client writes letters whilst the large bespoke unit (complete with inset panels of metallic finished grasscloth) houses the printer, filing and all the AV kit.
The new Kitchen! Previously a tired and much used dining/living room. Dark blue was a fantastic choice, timeless, elegant and working well with both antique and contemporary pieces. Glossy finishes to the perimeter units bounce light and reflections around the room, whilst the island is kept in a matt finish.
Where to hang ready to use tea towels? An example of the sort of detail we ran through with our client to ensure there was a home for everything. The neat angled shelving provides some display space with added character.
Our client wasn't sure about having the wallpaper on all walls to begin with as she was concerned it would be overwhelming. We are really pleased she was braved as we think the result is stunning. A pivot door leads into the Pantry.
The Pantry (previous kitchen) is a luxury, serving as an overflow space, useful for ensuring the Kitchen can always look presentable. In addition to more work surfaces and abundant storage, we installed an additional dishwasher, side by side fridge and freezer.
We designed open shelving units, backlit to display regularly used glasses and mugs. Our client particularly loves the chiselled edge of the granite on the island.
Previously the reception rooms were separate, but by opening them up, the room is flooded with light and delivers the more contemporary way of living that our client requested. We specified Crittel style pocket doors as a feature and opportunity to separate the spaces whilst keeping a visual connection.
Historically this room was underused as a classic 'formal sitting room'. Now a Living/Dining space, the bay window looks out on a pretty tree lined avenue room - so the views and light can be enjoyed on a daily basis. Original furniture is mixed with new, bespoke and the occasional high street pieces.
The original dining table was in poor condition and didn't reflect the desired look. We replaced it with a stunning bespoke Julian Chichester table. However, we managed to integrate the original dining chairs into the scheme, restored and reupholstered with a fun fabric.
It isn't always possible or practical to hide the TV, this elegant solution fits in perfectly. Custom antique mirrored glass panels give some depth to the room.
A bespoke rug helps to further define the living area and pulls the colour scheme together, with a fantastic abstract inkblot design.
Original artworks were reviewed, edited and in some cases restored and re-framed.
We designed this metal framed glass shelving unit which is suspended from the ceiling. It has an elegant simplicity. The chair, upholstered in a great Christopher Farr fabric, forms a pair with the one in the Kitchen. This creates a flow and also enables the two to be placed side by side when there are larger social events.
Wanting the hallway to have a proper punch of colour, we discussed a textured look with our client. We discovered the fantastic work of a textile artist in Australia and commissioned her to produce this Wimbledon Common inspired landscape.
The Boot Room is smart and dark, with more bespoke designed joinery, here inset with panels of a luxurious textured wallcovering which is also practical. Within the room we also designed a floating bench seat (and shelf beneath for shoes), a pocket door shuts the Cloakroom off from the Boot Room for privacy.
In contrast to the darkness of the Boot Room, a large window floods the Cloakroom with natural light enhancing the tropical theme.
Looking back at 'that' entrance unit. The original staircase was given some much-needed attention and we specified a carpet runner (where the proportions suit we often think this always looks smart).
The stunning curtains frame the view of the large garden whilst in the evening they make the landing space feel indulgent and cosy.
Use of mirrors to increase the sense of light and proportions in the property, creating views into the Master Suite and one of the Guest Suites.
A bespoke bank of cedar lined wardrobes with internals to suit our client.
One of our favourite wallpaper designs.
Mixing the antique (bedside table) with the contemporary (bespoke headboard).
Our client wanted to wrap herself in the curtain fabric when we found it, it feels incredible due to the wool/mohair/silk mix and makes quite a statement in the room. She bravely trusted us when we specified a pale pink carpet in the bedroom, it softens the scheme.
A handsome antique Chest on Chest and view to the contemporary bathroom beyond.
We positioned the bed neatly in this recess, designing little house shaped recesses to act as bedside tables. Whilst above the bed a further opportunity for display, these shelves are again backlit and create lovely silhouettes when in lit.
We carved a small Ensuite Shower Room out of the original bedroom, despite its dimensions its works well.
And still has the pop of colour that our client enjoys.
The second Guest Suite features an oversized headboard - allowing the bed to be split into two single beds - really useful for extra flexibility.
A glimpse of the doorway, on the left, where we located a Utility Room - so often located on the lower floors but here it felt appropriate to have it on the floor where all the washing comes from.
This larger Guest Suite features a walk in Dressing Room which also acts as an overflow space for our client's wardrobe.
The Guest Ensuite includes a bath for the occasional soak.