This month, we’re shining the spotlight on a two-bedroom apartment in South East London – a project we completed in 2022 – to bust the myth that interior designers are only for those with giant, detached homes.
We’re also hoping to quietly challenge a couple of other misconceptions! Namely:
- That dark colours make spaces feel smaller
- And that it’s impossible to add character to new-build properties
A few years ago, our client approached us to transform their ordinary flat into a contemporary, atmospheric space that was uniquely tailored to their lifestyle. As you’ll see from the before and after shots below, we like to think we achieved exactly that. Keen to find out how? Read on.
PRIORITISING COHESION FOR SEAMLESS STYLE
As you’ve heard us say on numerous occasions, being consistent with colour and texture helps to bring a sense of cohesion to any space – and that all-important sense of sophistication and spaciousness so many of us seek. In this case, the dark and moody colour palette transformed the once magnolia flat into something pretty special (if we do say so ourselves!) and serves as a fitting reminder that dark colours can actually make spaces look larger when used correctly.
By opting for new timber flooring and doors throughout, adding bespoke dark timber, fluted joinery and colour-matching the fabric of the bespoke headboard to the bedroom walls, we purposefully created a sense of seamlessness throughout the apartment.
MAXIMISING SPACE WITH DESIGNATED ZONES
As you can see from the before shots, we inherited a standard living room typical of new-build flats – and were determined to maximise its potential. By introducing defined zones, what was once a plain room became a multipurpose space, perfect for both relaxing and entertaining.
At one end, we built a bespoke TV unit complete with integrated lighting to create a warm, ambient glow, and selected a stunning L-shaped sofa that complements the colour palette. This area now functions as a welcoming spot to unwind after a busy day. At the opposite end, a custom-built bar area – complete with bar stools and bespoke lighting – acts as a stylish social hub for evening entertaining.
REPURPOSING SPACE FOR FUNCTIONALITY
Although this is a two-bedroom apartment, we prioritised our client’s wish for an inviting home office and transformed the second bedroom into exactly that so that they could work from home in comfort. By maximising natural light by placing the desk in front of the window, adding bespoke joinery to hide clunky items like printers (which also doubled up as excellent storage for spare duvets and towels etc…) and showcasing our client’s beloved guitars, we created a functional space that blends personality with clean, contemporary design.
ADDING PLAYFUL ELEMENTS TO INSERT CHARACTER
One of the perks of being interior designers is that we also get to furnish the properties we work on – and we had so much fun doing exactly that for this project. From the bronze pendant lamps above the bar and the padded, high-back bar stools to the bespoke built in joinery, theme of fluting and hints of dark bronze and white marble throughout the apartment, every piece was hand-selected to elevate the design.
We also had fun playing with different tone variations and textures and added quirky design touches throughout, such as the bespoke mirror and playful light fittings in key areas. The result? A stylish space that’s full of character.
FINAL THOUGHTS
For us, this project will always stand out as the perfect example for how a standard flat can be transformed into a glamorous home. It was a joy to work on and we’re so proud of the results.
If you’re looking to reimagine your own space or have any questions about interior design, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.
For now, we hope you’re having a wonderful summer – and we look forward to sharing more ‘Tales of Transformation’ with you next month.
Emily and Danielle
