Challenge

This late-1800s property was full of charm and original character, yet it felt cold and somewhat uninviting. Although the bones of the house were beautiful, the interiors lacked cohesion, warmth, and that sense of homeliness the clients were longing for. They wanted a carefully considered update—one that was sensitive to the building’s heritage, enhanced its architectural features, and introduced a more comfortable, lived-in feel without compromising the period details they loved.

Concept

The design concept focused on enriching the home with a warm, comforting palette and soft, tactile finishes. We introduced creamy brick tones in the kitchen and living areas, blended with warm taupes and gentle beiges that created a calm, cohesive backdrop throughout. Curves became a central motif, echoing the beautiful curved roofline in one of the bedrooms and subtly repeating this form in joinery, accessories, and key furnishings.

Where possible, we preserved and celebrated original elements, such as the wooden ceilings in several rooms, allowing them to act as natural focal points. To complement these, we designed bespoke shelving and storage solutions that balanced practicality with craftsmanship. The material and colour choices were intentionally timeless, ensuring the home felt grounded, welcoming, and reflective of its history, while still being fully relevant to modern living.

Outcome

The completed scheme is a home that now feels warm, cosy, and elegantly understated. Every detail— from the palette to the joinery—was crafted with longevity in mind. The result is a refined and inviting space that honours the property’s heritage while supporting contemporary family life. The clients now have a home that is not only beautiful to look at, but truly comforting to live in: a harmonious blend of old-world character and modern warmth.