In the centre of Thessaloniki, Greece, Square Design Interiors transformed a 25 sq.m. ground floor private garage into a 32 sq.m. modern micro-residence, expanding the usable space through the new design.
As built originally, the garage had direct access to the street. So, an entry hallway was created to lead into the compact, modern residence that expands in two levels.
An internal balcony and a bespoke designed bookcase developing in full height, connect the two levels. The kitchen and living room areas are on the ground level, while the bespoke staircase with the hidden storage areas lead to the bedroom and bathroom upstairs.
The owner of the property wished to change the use of the garage into a micro-residence equipped with modern life amenities, where the user, most likely the owner himself, would decompress from the chaotic city scenery.
The brief described the creation of an internal balcony and a floor to ceiling bookcase rising dramatically all through the two levels. Furthermore, the new facade should blend into the neighbourhood environment, while expressing a fresh and new approach to the safety and privacy of the user.
The main constraint was the limited space and that was the wheel of creativity, at the same time.
Iron was one of the main materials used, in some cases acting as a structural component, coated in plasterboard and painted white to create the sense of continuity within the interior areas. In other cases, iron made design components were coloured to be integrated in the overall design, like the white metal ladder of the bookcase or the beige metal safety railings of the facade.
Warm oak wood was matched with sleek surfaces of white lacquer, offering a timeless result: the modern kitchen with the numerous hidden storage areas, the staircase providing storage and integration of the home appliances, the dramatic bespoke bookcase.
The wood-like warmth was also introduced on the floor surfaces through carefully selected tiles, as well as on the shower wall and floor.
This feeling of simplicity and warmth was extended outwards, to the facade of the micro-residence, blending harmonically with the surrounding environment. The colours and the materials of the facade project home serenity and warmth.
The challenge that the design sought to address was to make the most from the less; in other words, the task was to utilise and transform a garage into a modern and fully functional permanent ‘micro-residence’.
In a small space, every possible surface that can evolve and create additional rooms is particularly significant. Through the design, usable space was added to the upper level. The original garage area had a loft of approximately 6 square meters. An additional space of 7 square meters was added, creating a bedroom, a work area and a bathroom on the upper level.
The ‘micro-residence’ concept addresses the worldwide housing problem, where the lack of functional and compact residences is pervasive. The rapid growth of short-term rental housing, especially in city centres, makes the need for smart solutions, such as the one created through the design, even more pressing.
Another major advantage of the project is the smaller energy footprint as the space heats up and cools down faster due to its size and design. This feature follows the global approach to social, economic, and environmental planning that balances the social and economic needs of present and future human generations with the imperative of preventing undue damage to the natural environment.
We are very happy to share that our studio received the international Big SEE Architecture Award 2025, during the Big Architecture festival in beautiful Portoroz by the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia, for our Garage Transformation into a Micro-Residence project.
About Square Design Interiors
We work on our projects with great passion and dedication, structuring and following a personal approach. The process of our work balances a highly creative perspective with driven project coordination. The finished environments we create are complete spaces designed effectively for the interaction of people within them and the creation of life-long experiences and wonderful memories. We work closely with our clients and form strong ties, as most of our clients have become repeat customers and eventually good friends. Our studio is located in Thessaloniki, Greece and we work globally.
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Marmo were delighted to be commissioned once again by their long-standing shopfitting partner to deliver the decorative finishes for one of Aesop’s newest retail stores, located at Westfield Stratford City, London. This follows their previous collaboration on Aesop’s Islington store, reinforcing a strong, ongoing relationship with the globally respected skincare brand and their design team.
The design specification for the Westfield Stratford store called for application of coarse-finish Microcement, selected for both aesthetic quality and high-performance properties. The finish was applied across nearly every surface—walls, ceilings, flooring, a central structural column, and complex bespoke joinery, including custom sink units and precision-cut display fixtures.
Following a thorough sampling and approval process with the architect and main contractor, two contrasting yet complementary tones were selected: a warm custom terracotta red and a soft earth-toned beige. Both shades align with Aesop’s signature organic colour palette, ensuring harmony with the brand’s global retail identity.
True to Aesop’s design philosophy—“to work with what already exists... to weave ourselves into the fabric of place and add something of merit rather than impose a discordant presence”—the most visually striking element is the structural column. This architectural feature, wrapped in the custom terracotta Microcement, anchors the space both vertically and aesthetically, providing a strong visual connection between floor and ceiling.
Microcement was the ideal material for this project, offering not only a refined, natural aesthetic but also exceptional durability, full waterproofing, and resistance to oils and fragrances—crucial in a high-traffic retail environment. Its versatility and seamless application across multiple substrates ensured a clean and coherent finish across even the most intricate surfaces, including units with delicate integrated cut-outs.
This latest commission builds upon our previous work with Aesop, including the coarse Microcement wall finishes in Islington, matched to Farrow & Ball’s “Dimity No. 2008,” and the 2024 Salone del Mobile installation in Milan, for which we completed 16 large-format wall panels in Microcement. We are proud to contribute to the evolution of Aesop’s unique retail spaces through innovative use of decorative Microcement finishes.
As specialist Microcement contractors based in London and Surrey, we have built a strong reputation for delivering high-end decorative surface finishes across both residential and commercial sectors. This latest collaboration with Aesop adds to our growing portfolio of Microcement and polished plaster installations, delivered both nationwide and internationally. Our expertise extends far beyond retail environments—Microcement is a highly versatile, seamless, and waterproof finish that is ideally suited for a wide range of applications including bathrooms, wet rooms, showers, spa areas, and swimming pools, as well as bespoke elements such as furniture and joinery. Whether working on a luxury private residence in Surrey, a hospitality space in central London, or a flagship retail concept abroad, we bring the same level of craftsmanship, precision, and design sensitivity to every project.
About Marmo Surface Finishes
Marmo Surface Finishes are a renowned polished plaster company specialising in Venetian Polished Plaster interior applications and Decorative surface finishes, predominantly operating throughout London and Surrey as well as the U.K's major cities. Our experience spans all sectors such as hi-end residential and commercial projects including retail environments, restaurants, bars and office interior spaces. We work alongside some of London's and the U.K's major construction companies as well as award winning interior designers and architects creating stunning Venetian Polished Plaster interiors that we are extremely proud of. Our work speaks for itself.
The Royale Residence Villa project, designed by DM Projects, aims to create a luxurious Moroccan-style private retreat near Bali's Pandawa Beach. The design criteria focus on blending traditional Moroccan aesthetics with modern amenities, ensuring panoramic ocean views and high-end facilities such as private gyms, saunas, and spas for each villa.
The external appearance showcases authentic Moroccan architecture, characterised by intricate tile work, arched doorways, and ornate detailing. Each villa is complemented by lush garden facilities, featuring native Balinese flora to create a tranquil oasis that harmoniously blends with the environment.
Royale Residence is designed for discerning investors, high-net-worth individuals, and business professionals seeking an exclusive retreat in Bali. Positioned in a prime location, this villa offers the perfect balance of luxury, privacy, and investment potential.
Offering an exclusive, serene environment that appeals to affluent individuals seeking a unique and opulent living experience in Bali. Challenges include harmonising Moroccan architectural elements with the tropical Balinese environment and ensuring the integration of luxury features without compromising the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The private pool at Royale Residence offers a secluded retreat, surrounded by lush tropical greenery. Designed for both relaxation and recreation, the pool area features elegant sun loungers, shaded pergolas, and intricate architectural details that enhance its serene ambiance.
The rooftop terrace of Royale Residence is an elevated retreat designed for relaxation, entertainment, and breathtaking views. Featuring elegant sun loungers, a shaded pergola, and lush greenery, this space seamlessly blends comfort with natural beauty.
The grand staircase and classical architectural elements create a sophisticated ambiance, while thoughtfully placed seating areas offer an intimate retreat. Whether for sunbathing, alfresco dining, or quiet evenings under the stars, the rooftop embodies refined luxury and exclusivity.
Sustainability, safety and innovation are an important part of the project. The Royale Residence has features that improve the safety, security, accessibility and wellbeing of the occupants: - Security and CCTV: Utilisation of state-of-the-art video surveillance systems. Availability of professional security guards for round the clock security. - Safe Zones: Designation of safe areas and evacuation routes. Use of safes for guests' valuables. - Access Control: Restricting entry to registered visitors only. Entrance to the complex is strictly through the reception desk. - Fire Safety: Installing fire extinguishing equipment and smoke detectors. - Emergency Assistance: Organisation of medical service for emergency cases. Safety instructions and contact numbers for guests. - Hospitality and Service: Trained staff ready to provide high quality service. Feedback systems to improve service quality.
To ensure that the villa is stable and functions for many years, bringing only joy and comfortable life to its owners, we equipped the project with the following equipment:
- Smart Home: Premium, Smart Home Systems Personalised for the way you live offers the unparalleled convenience of controlling your lighting, climate, entertainment, and security from a single control. - Climate control HVAC system: Our energy-efficient HVAC systems are designed to minimise your carbon footprint, allowing you to live a greener lifestyle. - Energy saving and ecology: Natural insulation and ventilation that ensures a dry micro climate in the villa during the rainy season, which prevents the formation of fungi and mold. Waste management by arrangement with the garbage collection company. The area has moderate winds from the west during the dry season and from the south east during the wet season, which keeps a mild micro climate indoors and outdoors.
- Water filtration for villas: Follows technological developments, especially in water treatment and reverse osmosis systems. Provide solutions for clean water needs for customers by paying attention to various aspects such as environmentally friendly technology. - Recycling: Composting organic waste for fertilizer and reducing pressure on landfills for every our villa. Say Goodbye to Food Waste. It's time to rethink recycling. Our powerful technology, sleek design and easy operation make the FoodCycler a game-changer in your kitchen. - Waste sorting bins in every single kitchen: Waste can become new resources. Our chosen series helps to sort different materials into different bins, a simple action and the first step towards giving waste a new life.
- Solar panels: Professional lithium battery storage solar system. - Sustainable water conservation sanitary: Hybrid ecology system ultra-powerful water conservation. Flushes waste completely every time no matter where the toilet is located. Hybrid ecology system combines two Innovative water streams-one from the plumbing system and one from a small tank inside the toilet-to maximise flushing efficiency. Using minimal water, Hybrid ecology system is so effective at removing waste that a second flush is never required. What's more, the flushing power remains strong regardless of how high up in a building the toilet is located.
Energy efficiency and eco-friendly measures encompass advanced lighting systems, climate control solutions, water conservation practices, and comprehensive recycling programs. The design prioritises sustainability without compromising luxury.
About DM Projects
At DM Interior Design, our philosophy revolves around the belief that every space has the potential to inspire, uplift, and enhance everyday life. We approach each project with a deep commitment to balancing beauty and functionality, creating environments that are both aesthetically striking and practically suited to the needs of those who inhabit them. Our designs are rooted in timeless elegance, yet we remain at the forefront of innovation, blending classic principles with modern sensibilities. We believe that great design should not only be visually appealing but also sustainable, fostering a connection with nature and promoting well-being through the use of eco-friendly materials and practices.
The Royale Residence Villa project aims to create a luxurious Moroccan-style private retreat in Bali.
The interior design, by DM Projects, highlights luxurious fixtures and fittings, such as handcrafted Moroccan lanterns, custom-designed furniture, and premium materials like marble and exotic woods.
Rich wooden details, custom ceiling patterns, and refined textiles enhance the space, while natural light connects indoor and outdoor living. Every element is designed to inspire, offering a perfect balance of comfort and prestige.
A seamless blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication, the living room of Royale Residence exudes timeless luxury. Grand chandeliers, arched windows, and handcrafted furnishings create a warm yet opulent ambiance.
The kitchen and dining area of Royale Residence combine functionality with refined aesthetics. The kitchen is designed for both professional-level cooking and intimate gatherings, featuring custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and ambient lighting that enhances its warm and inviting atmosphere.
The dining area is a statement of elegance, with a grand table set beneath intricate chandeliers that cast a soft glow over the space. Large arched windows frame the tropical surroundings, creating an indoor-outdoor connection. Every detail, from handcrafted chairs to the sophisticated table setting, contributes to an experience of timeless luxury and effortless sophistication.
The bedroom of Royale Residence is a sanctuary of serenity and refined luxury. Inspired by timeless elegance, it features handcrafted wooden accents, intricate ceiling designs, and warm ambient lighting that enhance the intimate atmosphere. This bedroom embodies timeless elegance, blending classic craftsmanship with modern comfort. Intricately carved wooden furniture, warm earthy tones, and luxurious textiles create an inviting and tranquil ambiance. Designed for both relaxation and aesthetic harmony, this bedroom is a sanctuary of comfort and style.
The villa is complemented by lush facilities. The interior design highlights luxurious fixtures and fittings, such as handcrafted Moroccan lanterns, custom-designed furniture made by teak wood implemented by local professionals with fully hand carving, and premium materials like imported Tukish marble and exotic woods such as Iron wood and Bengkirei wood.
The floor is covered with cement glazed tiles made by Balinese craftsmen specifically for this villa. The colours, tones, and patterns on the tiles are exclusive to this villa and its colour scheme. The use of space emphasises openness and fluidity, with strategic lighting enhancing the ambiance and functionality of each area.
Rich textiles, plush furnishings, and traditional patterns evoke a sense of heritage and sophistication. Large arched windows invite natural light, seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor experience.
As the esports industry continues to surge in popularity across the UK and worldwide, the need for high-performance, immersive environments is growing. These are not just places for gaming-they are cultural hubs, event venues, and digital stages. Designing such spaces requires more than technical know-how; it demands a deep understanding of how competitive gaming works and how players, spectators, and streamers interact with their environment.
Yuliya Forrest, founder of Yuliya Forrest Interior Design LTD, brings over 18 years of international experience in commercial interior design to this fast-evolving sector. With a portfolio that spans immersive hospitality spaces and dynamic commercial venues, she brings a narrative approach to every project-especially when the space itself is part of the entertainment.
Her largest and most ambitious esports-related project to date is Eclipse, a next-generation cyber arena located in Moscow. With over 1,000 square metres of programmable space, Eclipse raises the bar for competitive gaming venues in Eastern Europe. Every design decision was tailored to enhance performance, audience flow, and a fully immersive visual experience.
"Designing a cyber arena isn't just about placing gaming desks and LED lights," Yuliya explains. "It's about creating a functional, flexible space that supports both casual use and high-pressure international tournaments."
With esports tournaments becoming more complex and regulated, venues must meet strict requirements: lighting quality, power load capacity, seating orientation, camera access, and acoustic treatment. Yuliya began the Eclipse project with detailed research-visiting other arenas, gathering user feedback, and analyzing floor plans from an operational perspective.
The resulting space includes: - 100+ high-performance gaming stations - Multiple VIP lounges and private gaming rooms - A PlayStation and console zone - Flexible modular areas for championship events - Streamers' room
Due to budget prioritisation towards advanced hardware, the interior design had to be sharp, functional, and efficient. Yuliya's solution? A blend of dark, performance-enhancing surfaces with signature LED lighting that curves across walls and ceilings, echoing the flow of circuitry. The lighting enhances mood, guides spatial movement, and brings a distinctly futuristic character to the space.
Walls were transformed into narrative surfaces. Yuliya curated a series of bold, themed murals in collaboration with urban artists-not as decoration, but as world-building elements. Each zone has its own character, supporting both casual immersion and high-energy tournaments. Her curated use of lighting and visuals allows each visitor to feel part of the action, whether they're playing or watching.
Despite its size, Eclipse was managed almost entirely remotely. Thanks to strategically placed cameras and constant digital coordination with the local team, Yuliya directed the project with minimal site visits. It is a clear example of how digital project management is transforming commercial interior delivery.
"You don't need to be physically present every day if your workflow is structured and your communication is solid," she notes. "It allowed me to focus on precision and keep the project moving quickly."
Eclipse's success quickly led to the launch of a second location, built using the same conceptual framework. Today, both spaces form the foundation of a fast-growing esports venue franchise. Yuliya contributed to the visual continuity and spatial logic of the second arena, ensuring brand coherence while adapting the layout to a new location.
With the UK now showing increased interest in esports infrastructure, Yuliya sees a timely opportunity for design innovation: "The UK creative and tech scenes are converging rapidly, and esports venues are part of that shift. These spaces deserve thoughtful design that elevates the player experience and amplifies the cultural value of gaming"
As esports becomes more mainstream in the UK, the demand for versatile, high-performance environments will only grow. Yuliya Forrest continues to position herself as a pioneer in this field, offering a unique blend of aesthetic vision, technical understanding, and cultural fluency. Whether for private gaming lounges, public venues, or large-scale arenas, her approach brings together storytelling, strategy, and striking visuals.
About Yuliya Forrest Interior Design
Yuliya Forrest Interior Design is a studio based in Scotland, UK. Since 2006, Yuliya has been creating thoughtful and well-resolved interiors that combine functionality, comfort, and visual identity. While her portfolio spans residential, hospitality, and commercial projects, Yuliya is especially passionate about shaping distinctive spaces for businesses. Her work is rooted in a refined European sensibility, brought to life through a clear technical understanding and a strong artistic vision. With qualifications in both Fine Arts and Civil Engineering, Yuliya leads every project personally — from concept to completion — ensuring each detail is both beautiful and buildable. Her designs are known for their clarity, thoughtful planning, and atmosphere. The studio currently focuses on projects throughout the UK, while also maintaining a track record of international work across Europe and the Middle East. Clients value the studio’s flexible, hands-on approach and ability to translate brand and lifestyle into authentic, engaging interiors.
The clients, a family of four with three children, bought two neighbouring apartments with common floor area 300m2. The main task was to connect apartments, reorganise the space including individual bedrooms for each of the three children, a room and kitchen for the staff, and a private area for the parents.
The head of the family is a professional cyclist, so it was also essential to create a well-equipped home gym.
The clients are active people who travel often and have a well-developed visual sensibility. They frequently visit London and are drawn to English classics as well as American style. Their preferences blended harmoniously with the approach of AIYA Bureau, which favours a contemporary aesthetic mixed with classical elements. Modern furniture, lighting, and decor were combined with traditional details like ornate cornices, herringbone parquet flooring, and refined door frames.
One standout feature of the apartment is its deep-set windows. For the reveals, the designers created classic-style wood paneling, with the frames extending up into the decorative cornice. Curtains were avoided to keep the space light and airy, and wooden blinds were used instead. The combination of decorative molding, woodwork, and blinds gives the space a distinctive and individual character.
The apartment is divided into three main zones. The first is the formal area: the kitchen-dining room and a spacious living room are placed symmetrically and connected by a wide opening, forming an enfilade. Between them, a small hallway houses a guest bathroom and a technical space with storage and refrigerators. The second large zone is the parents’ suite, and the third is dedicated to the children: three bedrooms for the boys of different ages, a shared children’s bathroom, a guest room, a technical area, and a staff room. This part of the apartment has a separate entrance.
What makes this interior particularly impressive is its cohesiveness. Across all 3000m2s, a consistent palette of materials, style, and colours is maintained: cool wall tones are balanced by the warmth of the flooring. Even the children’s rooms are fully integrated into the overall concept. Every detail has been carefully considered and refined.
About AIYA Bureau
In AIYA Bureau, we always stand for a good balance of aesthetics and functionality, the designer's vision and the client's individuality. For clients with the highest standards, we create stylish, timeless interiors filled with natural materials, featuring a calm, nature-inspired palette, and equipped with the latest technologies. Additionally, we are passionate about art and have strong relationships with the best art galleries in different countries. Carefully curated art pieces are the final touch in almost every AIYA Bureau project. Global operations are important for us. Recently, we have set our expertise in the UK, Europe, Russia, and the UAE, which are now our main focus areas. But we are excited to start a new project anywhere in the world.
Nestled within the tranquil Cotswolds countryside, Bowmore Lodge stands as a testament to Manuela Hamilford’s visionary approach to design, where contemporary architecture seamlessly coexists with its natural environment. As the founder and Creative Director of Hamilford Design, Manuela’s latest project exemplifies her commitment to creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also ecologically sensitive and deeply rooted in their surroundings. This is a project close to Manuela’s heart, as her family and friends spend a lot of time in the property.
Bowmore Lodge underwent a comprehensive transformation that included a full architectural extension and interior reconfiguration. The goals were to maximise natural light, enhance spatial flow and strengthen the home’s connection to its landscape. The extension was carefully designed to accommodate Bowmore Lodge’s unique lakeside setting, built on a screw-effect platform that allows the structure to move with fluctuating water levels, ensuring long-term stability while respecting the conservation lake’s delicate ecosystem.
Manuela’s design philosophy centres around the idea that modern architecture can be both bold and environmentally considerate. The design features clean, bold lines and natural finishes that reflect the home’s rural setting. The palette draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, with earthy clay tones, local stone, weathered timber, and brushed metals creating a textured, harmonious rhythm throughout the home. Inside, a muted palette of natural hues is enlivened by jewel-like accents that add warmth and richness. The bespoke kitchen, with solid wooden units and marble worktops, anchors the open plan living space; a large, light-filled area that encourages relaxed gatherings. “We wanted a space to entertain and bring people together”, says Manuela of her country home. “I opted for architectural pieces, which are sculptural and purposeful. They provide visual interest and serve as statement elements within the rooms, contrasting beautifully with the softer, tactile finishes of linen and velvet soft furnishings."
The interior layout has a natural flow, with spaces designed to maximise natural light and views of the surrounding water and wildlife with biophillic principles in mind. Oversized upholstered headboards and bespoke joinery in the bedrooms add comfort and weight. Bathrooms echo the natural theme, featuring stone basins, marbles, aged brassware and tactile materials that add textural layering and a connection to nature. Throughout Bowmore Lodge, every detail has been thoughtfully considered- from carefully placed lighting that plays with shadow to subtle tonal shifts in materials. The effect is a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both modern and rooted in its environment.
Critical to the project was respecting the ecological integrity of the lakeside setting. Strict restrictions ensure minimal disturbance to local wildlife. The design and construction process prioritised the sourcing of sustainable materials and eco-friendly solutions, reflecting Manuela’s belief that contemporary design can and should coexist with nature. Local tradespeople were also used to echo this ethos.
Reflecting on Bowmore Lodge, Manuela says, “This project demonstrates that contemporary design can be both bold and respectful of the natural environment. The use of natural materials and strong architectural lines creates a home that feels solid yet connected to its surroundings.” She emphasises how the rich jewel tones and natural textures build a warm, inviting atmosphere, transforming the house into a true retreat.
Throughout her work across the UK, Manuela aims to craft spaces that are functional, beautiful and sympathetic to their context. Bowmore Lodge encapsulates this ethos, serving as a model for how modern architecture can enhance a landscape rather than dominate it. It is a sanctuary that celebrates simplicity, strength, and ecological sensitivity—an inspiring example of sustainable luxury in harmony with nature.
Bowmore Lodge embodies the future of modern country living - elevated by bold, elegant design.
About Hamilford Design
Founded in 2005, Hamilford Design offers a range of services from all aspects of creative interior design through to new builds and renovations with an expert team of contractors and architects. Creating elegant, luxurious and warm interiors is what reflects the essence of Hamilford Design. With projects globally, ranging from listed residences in London, to townhouses in New York and from large country estates to commercial projects across Europe, Hamilford Design has a wide portfolio. With no strict ’studio style’ all of our spaces are totally unique, we keep the client at the heart of all our projects.
If you think that using metal in the kitchen will create a cold and clinical look, then it's definitely time to think again. In the right hands, metal is actually one of the most flexible materials around and can be used to bring a wholly warm and inviting vibe. And unlocking the natural beauty of metallic finishes is both the passion and speciality of Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio.
By hand ageing and patinating everything from copper and brass to zinc and stainless steel, Charlie and his team of artisans craft unique kitchen designs. What they have in common, however, is these are simply beautiful kitchens in which to cook, gather and spend time.
Here are the three wildly different but equally luxurious kitchens created from stainless steel, copper and zinc...
The Oxford kitchen is proof positive that cool and masculine stainless steel can-in the right hands - be made to radiate warmth. The brushed effect on the cabinetry softens the feel and appearance of the metal, which is here further elevated by aged brass accents. Charlie was tasked with matching the metals to the La Cornue range cooker, which was done meticulously by hand, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship. Teamed with a Carrara marble, English walnut and fluted glass, the overall effect is breathtakingly luxurious.
The brief for the Cotswolds kitchen was to create a design of contrasting textures. To meet this, Charlie chose planks of crown oak for the furniture, which provides a tactile difference with the stainless-steel appliances. For further contrast in the open-plan space, he designed a breakfast and drinks cupboard, clad in patinated Verdigris copper. This showcases the natural variation that occurs when copper ages with all the resulting colour and pattern creating a striking focal point in the dining area of the room.
The owner of this Edwardian villa in the New Forest definitely didn't want a classic kitchen and tasked Charlie with creating something a world away from the standard Shaker. His response was to team beautiful book-matched walnut veneer with hand-patinated zinc panels. The zinc panels are edged in the same walnut and the cupboards feature aged-brass handles. The zinc helps to make a focal point not only of the island, but also the breakfast cupboard behind - and has been used to clad the fridge-freezer in the corner, bringing the whole design together.
Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.
About Ledbury Studio Ltd
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
Taking inspiration from its water side setting, the Riverside project, designed by Katharine Pooley, is a luxurious pied-a-terre situated in the historical walls of the City of London. With a grand view of the Thames, the designs' textures and shades echo the movement and light that emanates from the changing tides of the river. Reflective materials, a muted and aerial inspired colour palette and bleached timbers mirror the waterside locale.
Across the design, I layered complementary dual tones throughout: gold and silver, semi-gloss weave and matte, deep blues and silvery hues - all evoking the shimmering interplay of light and texture found along the river’s edge. When designing the entrance hall, we were looking for finishes that would lighten and brighten the space as much as possible due to its internal positioning away from the vast windows in the main living areas. Textured silk wallpaper was selected for its subtle way of reflecting light. A grass cloth weave on a metallic background was specified for the panels within the coat cupboard doors, while very pale aerial, silver-toned blue was realised for the painted surfaces. A focal point is the ‘bird of paradise’ handles on the cupboard which further reflect life near the water.
When designing the living room I drew deeply from the apartment’s external setting with views that stretch toward the Thames and across to Shakespeare’s Globe. A glacial palette of soft blues and watery silvers was chosen to echo the light-play on the river, while every material and finish was selected to bounce and throw light back into the room.
An abalone-pearl-inset side table further captures the shifting colours of the sun as it dances across surfaces, echoed by the mix of metal accents and visible hardware throughout. The chandelier is detailed with baubles and reed-like forms and evokes the effervescence of rising tide bubbles. The curtains are trimmed with a pearl edging - a nod to the theatrical costumes worn on stage at the Globe visible just beyond the windows.
Furniture selections support both form and function - swivel chairs offer flexibility and I positioned them to easily face either inward or outward towards the terrace. Bespoke upholstery and a pebble inspired side table sits beautifully atop a raised-pile rug. Together, these elements create a serene interior where water, light, and location are continuously reflected and reinterpreted.
A quietly layered rhythm defines the bedroom below. Nature inspired-details and tones are used to create a calm retreat from the energy of the city beyond the windows. A verdant sectional headboard frames the bed and is flanked by panels of wallpaper. Hanging pendants are found above each bedside table, which themselves are bespoke pieces crafted with soft radial curves. They include discreet pull-out trays, perfect for resting small treasures or a morning cup of coffee. The curtains are finished with a bauble trim along the leading edges, adding a playful tactile note, while sheer layers help to diffuse the sharper lines of the metropolitan view outside.
Our team of interior designers and architects considers the surrounding environment an essential factor in crafting residential spaces. We have achieved a sense of balance by addressing the inerrant contrasts of central city life - its dynamic energy and fast pace - with the serenity of nearby nature. Through careful consideration of textures, tones, and natural materials, we bridged these opposing forces to craft a home that provides both a vibrant connection to urban living and a peaceful retreat.
About Katharine Pooley London
Recently named ‘British Interior Designer of the Decade’, ‘International Designer of the Year in Asia’ and ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Katharine Pooley has in a short space of time become one of Europe's leading designers. Her portfolio encompasses a multitude of interior styles and architectural genres and her design ethos is one of luxurious eclecticism. No two projects are ever alike, but they are universally beautiful and timeless.
In the heart of Dubai, Villa Adele embodies luxury and craftsmanship thanks to the expertise of Palazzo Morelli, which supervised every phase of the project, from contracting to development, procurement and selection of materials. The project involved a complete renovation, transforming the villa into a modern residence with a classic character, where design, quality and research into materials blend in perfect harmony.
Refined marbles such as Irish Green, Lilac with details in Amethyst and Panda White, embellished with burnished brass finishes, define the interiors. The spectacular entrance is characterised by a walnut staircase and a custom-made Italamp chandelier in cherry, olivine and transparent glass. In the bathrooms, marble is combined with precious inlays, Cielo sanitary ware, Boca do Lobo and Gessi faucets.
Palazzo Morelli is the creator of custom-made furnishings of extraordinary workmanship, such as the walnut root wood kitchen with green marble cladding and brass shelves. The TV unit and the bookcase, finished entirely in brass, combine aesthetics and functionality, while designer furnishings such as those by Capital, Visionnaire and Poliform define the rooms with refinement and balance.
Villa Adele is the authentic expression of Italian savoir-faire, where luxury translates into perfect harmony between materials, exclusive design and craftsmanship. A tailor-made residence that enhances the value of aesthetic research and timeless quality.
Developer and contractor: Palazzo Morelli Procurement and custom finishes: Lato Home Design Development & Project Management: Zero2Cento Concept design: Arch. Debora Laganà Photography: Anique Ahmed
About Palazzo Morelli
Palazzo Morelli is an Italian finishing contractor specializing in high-end interiors, offering high-quality fit-out and procurement services, with a wide range of premier international brands and bespoke furniture, artisanally crafted in our own labs. Founded in Umbria, Palazzo Morelli passionately merges traditional craftsmanship with advanced techniques, led by a dedicated team of architects, designers, project managers and artisans. With projects across Italy, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, Palazzo Morelli adapts to different cultural contexts while maintaining its distinctive commitment to detail and fine materials. The company promotes open communication with clients and fuses creativity and practicality to build spaces where style and functionality coexist. This philosophy guarantees in-depth research into materials, constant attention to detail and authentic Made in Italy excellence.
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