30th January 2026 | IN INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECTS | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn Sometimes, the most transformative design stories unfold not in grand drawing rooms or sprawling extensions, but in the humble, hardworking spaces of a home. The Colchester Avenue Utility project is a perfect example – a reminder that every corner of a house deserves beauty, care, and thoughtful consideration. When the clients first approached Khaya Studio, their utility room had become a damp, neglected space that no one enjoyed spending time in. As is often the case, it had evolved organically over time, serving multiple functions without ever being properly designed for them. The result was a room that worked hard, but not well – lacking storage, light, and any sense of warmth or joy. From neglected to nurturing Our goal was simple: to restore order, functionality, and charm. But beneath that, it was also about changing the way this space made the family feel. We began by addressing the practical issues first – ensuring the room was dry, well-ventilated, and properly finished. The walls were boarded to combat damp, and new flooring was laid to provide a clean, solid base for the design to follow. Next came the cabinetry – the cornerstone of any utility room. We commissioned bespoke joinery to house the washing machine and dryer, concealing the appliances within beautifully detailed cabinetry that felt integrated and intentional. A deep ceramic sink and elegant tap added a touch of refinement, while open shelving provided a place for baskets, jars, and laundry essentials. Every inch was designed to make daily routines feel calmer and more enjoyable. Khaya Studio Khaya Studio The power of colour Once the structure was right, the real transformation came through colour. The cabinetry was finished in a bright, uplifting coral, and the walls painted a soft, warm pink – a combination that instantly shifted the mood of the room. What had once been a gloomy, utilitarian space became light-filled, cheerful, and full of personality. Colour is one of the most powerful tools we have as designers, capable of changing how we feel in a space almost instantly. In this case, the palette introduced optimism – a sense of energy and warmth that reflected the family’s personality and made the room a place to enjoy rather than endure. Elevating the everyday The Colchester Avenue Utility project may be small in scale, but it represents something much larger: the belief that every space in a home should contribute to a sense of wellbeing. When designed with intention, even the most functional rooms can spark joy and add daily ease to family life. In every project I take on – whether it’s a full-scale renovation or the redesign of a single space – I look for ways to combine practicality with beauty. The result is a home that not only looks wonderful but also feels good to live in. Khaya Studio Khaya Studio Design that brings happiness One of the greatest compliments came from the client after completion, when she told me that the utility room had become her “happy place” – a small but meaningful transformation that made household tasks feel lighter and more enjoyable. That, for me, is the essence of good design: creating spaces that improve the rhythm of everyday life, making even the simplest moments feel beautiful. About Khaya Studio Kate Fryer is a qualified interior designer with over 15 years of experience creating elegant, timeless interiors across Bristol, Bath and the wider Somerset region. Kate brings a professional yet personal approach to every project. Through her studio, Khaya Studio, Kate specialises in the transformation of period and heritage properties, blending classic architecture with contemporary comfort. Her work is defined by warmth, balance, and a deep respect for craftsmanship – creating homes that feel both sophisticated and lived in. Khaya Studio offers a range of tailored services, from colour consultancy to full turnkey renovation and project management. Every detail is carefully handled, ensuring a seamless process and a truly enjoyable design experience for each client. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.