Failand Farmhouse: A Serene and Inviting Living Room by Khaya Studio

The clients approached Khaya Studio to redesign and renovate their formal sitting room, a space that had become dated and underutilised over time. While generous in scale and blessed with wonderful views across the surrounding landscape, the room lacked warmth and personality, and no longer reflected how the family wished to live and entertain.

Design Intent

Respecting the architecture and history of a building is always at the heart of our design approach. Our aim was to create a scheme that felt entirely at home within the property, as though it had evolved naturally over time rather than been recently introduced.

Throughout the design process, the client was drawn to the soft greens and warm amber tones featured within the concept boards. These colours became the foundation of the scheme, bringing a sense of tranquillity while subtly reflecting the surrounding countryside. An engineered oak floor was selected to introduce warmth and authenticity, while providing a timeless backdrop for the furnishings.

Having always dreamt of living in a home with exposed ceiling beams, the client was delighted when we sourced faux beams in a finish carefully chosen to complement the new flooring. Existing wallpaper was removed and the walls redecorated to create a lighter, more cohesive canvas. New lighting was introduced throughout to enhance atmosphere and functionality, while bespoke window treatments in a soft green patterned fabric frame the beautiful views beyond without competing with them.

The finishing layers were equally important. A carefully selected rug, new sofas, footstool and statement mirror were introduced to bring texture, personality and a sense of completeness to the room.

The Result

The result is a serene and inviting living room that feels both refreshed and timeless. By relocating the television into an alcove painted in a deep green, it visually recedes into the background, allowing the elegant marble fireplace to reclaim its role as the focal point of the room.

Furniture was thoughtfully arranged to create a more intimate seating area, encouraging conversation, family evenings and relaxed entertaining. An antique brass-trimmed side table sourced from a local market now serves as a charming drinks station, styled with a decanter and treasured glassware. Above the fireplace, a playful squiggle-framed mirror introduces a contemporary touch, balanced by beautiful floral wall lights that add warmth and character.

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.