Walk into enough luxury homes today, and a strange pattern begins to emerge. The same materials. The same furniture. The same carefully curated idea of what luxury is supposed to look like. Marble surfaces. Fluted wall panels. Neutral palettes. Statement lighting. Beautifully styled spaces that photograph well and reflect the visual language of the moment.
Yet the homes I remember most are rarely the ones that followed the formula. They are the homes that felt personal. The homes that responded to the people living within them. The homes that revealed something unexpected.
As an interior designer, Pavlina Campbell, Founder of Pinterior.space, has become increasingly interested in a different definition of luxury. One that is less concerned with trends and more concerned with creativity. One that values individuality over imitation. One that understands that the most meaningful interiors are not copied from inspiration boards, but shaped around the people who inhabit them.
Creativity is rarely about adding more. More often, it comes from asking better questions, exploring alternatives and finding solutions that respond intelligently to the people, place and constraints of a project. Much of this work happens long before a finished interior becomes visible. Perhaps creative thinking has become the ultimate luxury.
Luxury interiors have never been more visible. A few minutes on social media can provide an endless stream of inspiration: beautiful kitchens, elegant living rooms and carefully curated spaces designed to capture attention. There is nothing inherently wrong with this. Inspiration has always been an important part of the creative process.
The challenge begins when inspiration becomes imitation. Over time, certain materials, colours and design features become associated with luxury. Repeated often enough, they begin to feel less like considered choices and more like requirements.
The result is a familiar pattern. Different properties. Different clients. Different lifestyles. Yet often the same design language. The same solutions. The same visual cues. Luxury becomes less about responding to the individual and more about recreating a recognisable aesthetic.
The irony is that many of these interiors are technically very well executed. They may be beautiful. They may be expensive. They may be admired. Yet they can still leave little room for surprise, individuality or genuine creative exploration. When luxury becomes predictable, something important is lost. The opportunity to create something that could belong to no one else.
Perhaps one of the greatest misconceptions about creative design is that originality happens naturally. In reality, creating something truly individual is often far more demanding than following a familiar formula.
When a design follows an established aesthetic, many of the decisions have already been made. The materials are familiar. The colour palette is familiar. The furniture language is familiar. Even the outcome can become largely predictable.
Creating something original is different. It requires a deeper understanding of the people, the property and the opportunities hidden within the brief. It requires curiosity. It requires experience. And perhaps most importantly, it requires the confidence to explore possibilities that do not yet exist.
Clients often arrive with collections of inspiration images gathered over months or even years. The challenge is rarely a lack of ideas. It is understanding what connects them — what the client is responding to, and why. I once worked with a client who shared more than thirty inspiration images. She had explored numerous layout options and spoken with other professionals, yet none of the proposals felt quite right. The problem was not a lack of information. It was a lack of interpretation.
The role of a designer is not simply to recreate individual images or present endless variations of the same idea. It is to understand what the client is really trying to achieve and transform those aspirations into a coherent design response. Sometimes the most successful solution is not the one the client expected. It is the one they immediately recognise as right. Creating something original requires curiosity, experience and the confidence to ask different questions.
Some of the most rewarding moments in design happen when a client sees a solution they would never have considered themselves. Not because it is unusual for the sake of being different. Not because it follows the latest trend. But because it solves a problem in a way that feels both unexpected and completely natural. These moments rarely happen by accident. They are often the result of experience, curiosity and a willingness to look beyond the obvious solution.
A creative designer is not simply selecting colours, furniture or materials. They are exploring possibilities. They are questioning assumptions. Testing ideas. Looking for opportunities hidden within the architecture, the brief and the way people live.
Sometimes the most successful design decisions are the ones that initially seem the least obvious: A layout that completely rethinks how a space functions. An unexpected relationship between materials. An architectural intervention that transforms the experience of a space rather than simply decorating it.
The best ideas often emerge when a designer moves beyond what is expected and begins asking different questions. Good design should not simply confirm what we already know. It should reveal possibilities we had not yet considered. That is where innovation begins. And perhaps that is why truly original homes are so memorable.
For many years, luxury has been associated with exclusivity. Rare materials. Bespoke craftsmanship. Exceptional attention to detail. These qualities remain important. But in a world where inspiration is available instantly, and trends can spread globally within days, exclusivity has become more difficult to define. The same furniture can appear in thousands of homes. The same materials can be specified across countless projects. The same carefully curated aesthetic can be recreated again and again. What becomes rare is not access to beautiful things. What becomes rare is individuality.
A truly luxurious home is not memorable simply because it follows an aesthetic particularly well. It is memorable because it reflects the people who live there.Their routines. Their values. Their aspirations. Their story.
This is why the most successful projects rarely begin with furniture, finishes or colour palettes. They begin with understanding. Understanding how people want to live. Understanding what matters to them. Understanding the architecture they inhabit. Understanding what makes this particular project different from every other one.
The result can be something that imitation alone could never produce. A home that feels personal rather than predictable. A home that feels considered rather than copied. A home that could not belong to anyone else. Perhaps the ultimate luxury is not having what everyone else has. Perhaps it is having something that could not belong to anyone else.
In many ways, creativity is the invisible layer of design. It cannot necessarily be measured by the cost of materials, the size of a property or the number of bespoke features within a home. Instead, it reveals itself through the quality of thinking behind the decisions. The ability to see possibilities where others see limitations. The confidence to challenge familiar solutions. The curiosity to explore ideas that may not be immediately obvious. This is often the difference between an interior that looks impressive and one that feels deeply personal.
As technology continues to make visual inspiration more accessible and ideas circulate faster than ever before, the value of creative thinking may become even more important. Not because creativity rejects inspiration. But because it interprets it. It transforms inspiration into something meaningful. Something individual. Something that could not simply be replicated elsewhere.
If luxury once meant access to rare materials and exclusive products, perhaps today it means something different. Perhaps luxury is having a home shaped by ideas, imagination and thoughtful design — rather than a formula.
About Pinterior Space
We are Interior design practice specialising in residential interiors. We are based in South Cambridgeshire where we work closely with our clients in a collaborative process to produce creatively unique, practical and beautiful spaces.
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At T&A Property Development / Shi+Me Interiors, we specialise in delivering high-end, design-led residential projects across London where craftsmanship, detail, and materiality define the final outcome. One of our most recent luxury interiors presented a particularly refined challenge: the integration of authentic gold leaf finishes across key architectural and decorative surfaces.
Gold leaf is one of the most delicate and expressive materials in interior design. Its application requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design expectations. Spanning approximately 12,500 square feet, this luxury London project presented an opportunity to combine traditional craftsmanship with exceptional attention to detail, with genuine gold leaf becoming one of its defining design features.
Unlike conventional finishes, gold leaf does not allow for error. Each sheet is ultra-thin and highly sensitive to environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature, and surface preparation. Even the slightest imperfection in the substrate can affect the final visual continuity.
Before application began, extensive preparation work was required to ensure all surfaces were perfectly smooth, sealed, and primed. Multiple test applications were carried out to achieve the correct adhesive balance and tonal consistency, ensuring the final finish aligned with the design intent.
One of the defining aspects of this project was the client's decision to use genuine gold leaf rather than composition (imitation) gold leaf. While imitation leaf offers a similar aesthetic at a lower cost, genuine gold leaf possesses a richness, depth of colour and permanence that simply cannot be replicated. Its ability to retain its brilliance over time made it the clear choice for a residence where authenticity and longevity were paramount.
However, selecting genuine gold leaf introduced an entirely different level of complexity. Every sheet is exceptionally delicate and demands meticulous handling throughout the application process. More importantly, achieving the client's vision required far more than simply choosing the material, it involved a collaborative design journey.
To ensure complete confidence before installation, our team produced a series of bespoke sample panels using different sheet sizes, layouts and application patterns. These mock-ups allowed the client to experience first-hand how the individual leaves aligned, how the seams interacted with light, and how varying installation techniques influenced the overall visual effect. Each sample was carefully reviewed and refined until the client identified the finish that perfectly reflected their design aspirations.
This level of prototyping proved invaluable. It minimised risk during installation, ensured absolute clarity before work commenced, and reinforced the bespoke nature of the project, where every detail was tailored specifically to the client's expectations.
One of the key challenges of working with gold leaf in a live London development environment was coordination between multiple trades within a restricted timeline. As the finish is highly sensitive, the application had to be carefully sequenced to avoid contamination from dust, movement, or adjacent works.
Lighting conditions also played a critical role. Gold leaf reacts dynamically to both natural and artificial light, meaning careful coordination with the lighting design team was essential to ensure the material delivered the intended warmth and depth without overwhelming the space.
Additionally, maintaining uniformity across larger surface areas required a consistent hand-applied approach, with specialist craftsmen brought in to ensure continuity of finish across all zones.
Despite the technical complexities, the result is a striking demonstration of how traditional materials can be reinterpreted within modern luxury interiors. The gold leaf surfaces introduce a sense of warmth, richness, and architectural depth that cannot be replicated by industrial finishes.
This project highlights the importance of collaboration between developers, designers, and skilled artisans. Every stage, from concept development to final application, was guided by a shared commitment to excellence and attention to detail.
At T&A Property Development / Shi+Me Interiors, we believe true luxury lies in the details that cannot be mass-produced. The use of gold leaf in this London residence reflects our commitment to delivering highly bespoke environments that balance artistic expression with technical precision.
Each sheet applied tells a story of craftsmanship, patience, and design ambition, resulting in a space that is not only visually exceptional but also deeply considered in its execution.
As London’s luxury property market continues to evolve, projects like this reaffirm the value of artisanal techniques within contemporary developments. Gold leaf, when executed with expertise and care, remains one of the most powerful tools for creating timeless, high-impact interiors.
About T&A Property Development
T&A Property Development is an award-winning design practice, proudly SBID-accredited since 2019. Led by Shiva Aghababaei, a chartered and award-winning Architect with over 25 years of experience, the company provides bespoke interior design services under its trading name, Shi+Me Interiors. Specialising in high-end residential and commercial architecture, the team combines creativity, functionality, and meticulous attention to detail to create distinctive and timeless spaces. From concept development and space planning to project delivery, T&A Property Development, trading as Shi+Me Interiors for its interior design services, is committed to delivering elegant, tailored, and highly functional design solutions.
Designing your own home is often described as the ultimate opportunity for creative freedom. In reality, it is something far more demanding. Every decision carries greater significance because you are not simply designing for a client—you are designing the environment your own family will experience every single day.
Blackbarn, our contemporary family home in North County Dublin, became much more than a self-build project. It became an opportunity to challenge, refine and ultimately reinforce every design principle that underpins Studio 31. It allowed me to explore the relationship between architecture, interiors and everyday living in a way that few projects ever can.
Throughout my career, I have always believed that exceptional interiors begin long before furniture, colour palettes or decorative finishes are considered. Blackbarn reaffirmed that philosophy. It demonstrated that the homes which endure are those where every decision is made with purpose, where architecture and interiors are developed together, and where beauty and functionality are never treated as separate ambitions.
One of the most common misconceptions about interior design is that it begins once the walls have been built. In reality, the most successful interiors are shaped during the earliest architectural conversations.
Before selecting a single material, we considered how we wanted to live.
Where would the morning light enter? How should someone experience the home as they moved through it? Which rooms would naturally become gathering spaces? How could the house remain adaptable as our children grew older?
Rather than designing individual rooms, we focused on designing the experience of living within the house.
From the moment you enter Blackbarn, your eye is drawn through the hallway towards the landscape beyond. That carefully considered sightline immediately establishes a connection between the architecture and its rural setting. It also creates a sense of calm, openness and anticipation before revealing the heart of the home.
Every transition, every doorway and every proportion was carefully considered to create a natural flow rather than simply connecting rooms.
Blackbarn takes inspiration from the simplicity of traditional agricultural buildings found throughout the Irish countryside. The architectural form is intentionally restrained, allowing proportion, materiality and craftsmanship to become the defining features.
People often associate minimal architecture with fewer decisions, but the opposite is true. When a design is stripped back, every detail becomes more important.
The relationship between the black metal cladding and the warmth of the timber. The depth of window reveals. The rhythm created by glazing. The alignment of architectural elements. These are the details that quietly define a project without demanding attention.
The same philosophy continued throughout the interiors.
Rather than relying on bold colours or passing trends, we chose a carefully curated palette of natural materials, textured fabrics, stone, timber and warm neutral tones. Contrasting black accents were repeated throughout the home. This was not simply as a decorative feature, but as a visual thread linking architecture and interior design into one cohesive language.
Our aim was never to create a fashionable house. It was to create a home that would feel as relevant in twenty years as it does today.
Beautiful homes only become truly successful when they support the people living within them.
As interior designers, we often talk about functionality, but functionality should never be confused with compromise. Some of the most beautiful spaces are also the most practical because they have been designed around real daily routines.
The open-plan kitchen, dining and living space quickly became the heart of Blackbarn. The Belvedere Quartzite island isn't simply a dramatic centrepiece. It's the place where our meals are prepared, family life unfolds, conversations happen, and friends gather. It is, in every sense, our family firepit.
The hidden playroom allows family life to unfold naturally while maintaining a calm and organised living space. A dedicated boot room provides generous storage for coats, shoes and everyday essentials. Circulation routes were planned to allow the house to function effortlessly, whether entertaining guests or managing the morning school routine.
Good design rarely announces itself. Instead, it quietly improves how people move, interact and live.
Selecting materials is about far more than aesthetics.
Every material contributes to how a space feels, how it performs and how it will age over time.
Throughout Blackbarn, we sought materials that would develop character rather than deteriorate. Natural timber introduces warmth against the architectural simplicity of the black exterior. Quartzite provides durability while becoming a sculptural focal point within the kitchen. Textured fabrics soften clean architectural lines, while carefully selected flooring creates continuity throughout the home.
Luxury is often associated with expensive materials, but genuine luxury is more often found in thoughtful restraint.
Choosing fewer materials and allowing each one to perform beautifully creates spaces that feel calmer, more sophisticated and ultimately more enduring.
Lighting is perhaps the most underestimated element within residential design.
It has the ability to transform colours, textures and atmosphere without changing a single piece of furniture.
At Blackbarn, natural daylight informed many of the architectural decisions, from window placement to room orientation. Decorative lighting was then layered throughout the house to create atmosphere, define spaces and highlight architectural features.
Rather than relying solely on downlights, each room incorporates ambient, task and decorative lighting. During the day, the interiors are shaped by changing natural light. In the evening, carefully selected feature fittings create warmth, intimacy and a completely different experience of the same spaces.
The best lighting schemes are rarely noticed. They simply make a room feel exactly as it should.
Every project leaves a lasting impression on a designer, but designing your own home changes your perspective entirely.
It deepened my appreciation for the emotional investment clients make in every decision. It reinforced the importance of balancing budgets without compromising long-term value. It reminded me that patience almost always leads to better outcomes than rushing decisions simply to meet deadlines.
Perhaps most importantly, it reinforced the belief that architecture and interior design should never be treated as separate disciplines. The most successful homes emerge when both are developed together, allowing every element—from spatial planning and lighting to furniture and finishes—to support one another.
Those lessons now influence every Studio 31 project.
Whether we are transforming a Victorian townhouse, designing a contemporary new-build or renovating a single room, the process always begins by understanding how people genuinely live. The aesthetics naturally follow.
Designing and building Blackbarn taught me more than any other project. Creating our own family home shaped me both personally and professionally, and continues to influence every Studio 31 project today.
It serves as a constant reminder that exceptional design is rarely defined by individual furniture pieces or luxurious finishes alone. Instead, it is the accumulation of hundreds of thoughtful decisions that shape how a home feels, functions and evolves over time.
For Studio 31, that philosophy continues to guide every project. We believe the most successful interiors are those that quietly enrich everyday life—spaces where architecture, materials, light and functionality work together seamlessly to create homes that are not only beautiful today, but will remain meaningful for many years to come.
Blackbarn reaffirmed everything I believed about great interior design. More importantly, it continues to shape how we design for every client who places their trust in Studio 31.
About Studio 31 Interior Design
Studio 31 Interior Design is a Dublin-based interior design studio specialising in bespoke residential and commercial interiors throughout Ireland. We create timeless, functional spaces tailored to each client's lifestyle, business and aspirations. Our comprehensive service includes interior architecture, space planning, lighting design, bespoke joinery, material specification, furniture sourcing and complete project management from concept through to completion. Every project is approached with creativity, meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to exceptional quality. Our work has been featured in leading Irish publications, reflecting our passion for creating beautifully considered interiors that stand the test of time.
Set within the New Forest in Hampshire, this Georgian-style manor house was conceived as a complete interior architecture and design project for a substantial new-build residence of more than 15,000 sq ft.
Dream Design was appointed to develop the interiors in close collaboration with the architect, allowing the architecture and interior design to evolve in parallel from the early stages of the project. This ensured that spatial planning, room-to-room flow, material continuity, lighting, furniture and detailed specification were considered as one coherent whole.
The result is a composed and timeless private residence, where classical architectural language is balanced with modern design. Rather than treating the interiors as a decorative layer, Dream Design approached the project through the principles of interior architecture, with ceiling details, lighting positions, bespoke joinery, kitchen planning, bathroom specification, furniture placement and material transitions all developed in relation to the architecture of the house.
The kitchen is one of the defining spaces of the project, forming part of an open kitchen, dining and lounge environment where traditional architectural features are balanced with contemporary cabinetry, modern furnishings and integrated lighting. Decorative ceiling cornices, clean-lined kitchen detailing and carefully planned lighting allow the room to feel both impressive and highly liveable.
The L-shaped island anchors the space, supporting natural circulation while framing views towards the terrace and surrounding landscape. Arranged for cooking, dining and conversation, the island gives the kitchen a natural sense of focus within the home.
A bespoke ceiling design, formed of three raised sections with concealed LED lighting, brings definition to the kitchen, dining and lounge areas while preserving the openness of the room.
The scale and character of the property called for a high-calibre specification, bringing together leading brands including SieMatic, Flexform and Rimadesio, alongside specialist ateliers and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces. Several elements required detailed knowledge of materials, craftsmanship and sourcing, ensuring each piece contributed to the overall composition of the home.
A key example is the kitchen dining table, crafted from 50,000-year-old Kauri wood from New Zealand and expertly worked by the experienced artisans at Italian furniture maker Riva1920. The piece brings a distinctive material story into the main living space while remaining fully integrated with the broader design language.
Material selection was central to the success of the project. Traditional references were treated with restraint, while contemporary finishes introduced clarity and precision. This balance between classical form and modern detailing gives the home its quiet confidence: elegant, substantial and comfortable without feeling overly formal.
Beyond the living spaces, the bathrooms and private areas continue the same considered language. In the principal ensuite, marble-effect porcelain surfaces, a sculptural freestanding bath and a large vanity with his and hers countertop basins create a calm and enduring room. Traditional elements, including sliding sash windows and decorative ceiling cornices, are integrated with contemporary detailing, ensuring the space feels aligned with the Georgian-style architecture of the house.
Across the project, Dream Design’s role extended beyond individual rooms. The studio considered how each space would be experienced in sequence, from arrival and circulation to everyday use and moments of retreat, ensuring the home felt coherent at every scale. In this New Forest residence, classical architecture and contemporary interior design come together in a home shaped by clarity, restraint and quiet permanence.
About Dream Design
Dream Design is a luxury kitchen, bathroom and interior design centre in Dorset, creating one-of-a-kind private residences across Dorset, Hampshire, Poole, the UK and internationally. Supported by its award-winning interior architecture and interior design studio, Dream Design specialises in bespoke kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living spaces and complete home design. The 5,000 sq ft Design Centre brings together leading brands and specialist ateliers across kitchen design, bathroomware, appliances, surfaces, lighting, furniture and interior architectural details, creating a distinctive design destination for private clients, architects and developers seeking a considered, highly tailored approach to residential design, specification and project delivery.
Nestled in the countryside on the outskirts of Bristol, this beautiful stone farmhouse enjoys an idyllic setting surrounded by fields and woodland. Approached through gates and a winding driveway, with its façade draped in magnificent wisteria, it is hard to believe the city lies just a stone’s throw away.
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.
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 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.
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.
Amy Stoddart Studio were entrusted with the internal renovation of this listed Arts & Crafts home, tucked away in the leafy suburbs of Hampstead. While the exterior is unmistakably country in feel, the client was clear from the outset that they wanted the interiors to feel contemporary and considered, rather than overtly traditional.
The brief was to create a family home with charm and character that would stand the test of time, centred around timeless pieces the family could grow with rather than grow out of. As a result, the house has a calm, muted and pared-back aesthetic. A soft palette of creams, browns, blush pinks and gentle greens creates a consistent thread from room to room, while chevron tiles introduce a quiet modernity and a sense of ease underfoot.
References such as Heckfield Place informed the balance between refinement and warmth, with carefully chosen, brighter artworks layered throughout to lift the scheme and bring moments of personality. Subtle nods to our client’s background in classics are woven into the details - most notably in the pantry, where the ‘A Muddle of Jugs’ wallpaper adds a playful yet thoughtful touch.
"Amy was fantastic to work with and took a lot of the stress out of our renovation, from the big decisions to the many, many small ones. She fully understood the brief, which involved staying strictly within the confines of our listed building approvals, meaning some tricky spaces which called for problem solving and collaboration with our architect and builders. We wanted to be very involved, and Amy was brilliant at steering us towards and away from ideas as needed, transforming our vague sense of what we wanted into beautiful and practical spaces for our young family, which feel our own whilst being far more beautiful than we could have imagined." - Linnell House Client
About Amy Stoddart Studio
We are a leading interior design studio that is rewriting the rules of modern design. We bring a unique perspective to interior design that blends eclectic, bespoke, and classic styles. Our goal is to create spaces that tell a story with timeless design at the forefront of our brand ethos. Whether you’re looking to update a single room or transform your entire home, we are here to help bring your vision to life. Central to Amy’s work is a deep understanding of her clients' lifestyles. She takes a highly collaborative approach, building close relationships to ensure each space is tailored to their needs.
Working on The OWO Residences was both an honour and a profound responsibility for Dseesion Interiors. The building’s extraordinary architecture and remarkable history make it one of London’s most iconic landmarks, so being entrusted with creating a private home within its walls felt truly special. Walking through the halls, one can literally feel the weight of history—this very sense of legacy became the starting point for all our design decisions.
We always begin with a story—the character of the building, the spirit of the place, and the people who will live there. The OWO project completely embodies this approach. The family itself held particular significance in this case: they love spending time together, travel constantly, and place great value on cherished personal objects. As they like to say themselves, they are "citizens of the world." This global outlook naturally influenced our design concept: subtle Asian references can be found in the bedroom and dining area, reflecting the aesthetic sensibilities of the homeowner and her deep connection to those cultures.
Our task was to translate the building’s remarkable heritage into a contemporary language of comfort and elegance, where every detail carries meaning and its own place. An additional point of inspiration was the building’s storied connection to the world of James Bond, which added an intriguing layer of cinematic allure to the space. Special attention was given to the restoration of significant historical spaces, including the Old Library and the legendary Spy Bar.
The work required great sensitivity: because the building has Grade II listed status, many elements could not be altered. This became not a limitation, but a creative challenge—to find a balance between preserving the historic fabric and introducing a modern level of comfort and functionality.
For instance, one such heritage element is the original dado rail—a wall moulding that runs through the hallway. Our intention was not to conceal it, but rather to celebrate it. To do so, the walls were enveloped in a natural silk wallcovering by Fromental in a bespoke hue (colourway Elephant).
Overall, rather than competing with the original architecture, we designed bespoke furniture and finishes that delicately complemented it.
The original octagonal shape of the living room inspired a composition where refined contemporary details are skillfully balanced with architectural character. We framed the original fireplace with bespoke brass panels inset with mirrored glass and Alcantara, enhancing the natural reflections and amplifying the geometry of the room. The walls were dressed in Fromental’s Rain wallcovering: strands of hand-stitched silk threads cascading like raindrops, subtly elongating the height and adding a poetic rhythm to the space.
The bespoke wall panels behind the bed from Fromental’s Faisans collection (in custom finish: background dupion silk colourway Enoki and pheasants in Mahogany) are undoubtedly the focal point of the Master Bedroom. The hand-painted pheasants are gracefully in motion. These panels function not merely as decoration but as art pieces in their own right.
Custom joinery in the walk-in wardrobe provides both concealed storage and open shelving for displaying cherished accessories.
A particular highlight is the collection of bespoke carpets, all of which were designed specifically for this home based on our original sketches. In the living room, a circular rug by Tai Ping, measuring nearly six metres in diameter, features a sculptural, almost three-dimensional surface while remaining incredibly soft; its light background with shades of ochre and turquoise echoes the interior palette. In the bedroom, the rug—created in collaboration with Ice International—features a silk relief pattern woven at a higher pile. We designed it to gently flow around the furniture, much like water encircling natural forms, bringing a calming and meditative quality to the space. In the hallway, another silk carpet by Tai Ping with an abstract pattern evoking drifting smoke visually balances the complex curvilinear architecture and offers a sense of equilibrium.
To transform former government offices into a welcoming home, we chose not only tactile, sumptuous materials—velvet, silk, patinated metal, and wood—but also furnishings that combine timeless beauty with a contemporary spirit, creating a dialogue between past and present.
Many pieces, such as those by Promemoria, feature soft yet modern forms that perfectly reflect this philosophy. The unique Vincenzo De Cotiis sofa, acquired from Carpenters Workshop Gallery, completes the look of the octagonal living room. The Cora console, placed in the bedroom in front of a large floor mirror called Michelle (also by Promemoria), is crafted from wood and bronze and combines a sense of solidity with visual lightness. It brings a meditative quality to the space and subtly emphasises its architecture.
Upon entering the residence, one is greeted by a gracious hallway. As a focal point, we chose two elongated Collier chandeliers by Visual Comfort—their sculptural form and soft radiance create an impression of floating light, transforming the corridor into a true art piece. Special attention was also given to collectible design sourced from galleries in London, Paris, and Brussels. For instance, the sculptural llamas by Abel Cárcamo bring a sense of lightness and playfulness, acting as striking focal points.
Sustainability is an integral part of our philosophy. We approach it not only through the choice of materials but also through craftsmanship and longevity. In this project, we prioritised natural and enduring textures—wood, silk, and stone—elements that age gracefully and develop character over time rather than requiring replacement. We also collaborated closely with artisans and trusted suppliers who share our commitment to responsible sourcing.
Equally important is the focus on timeless design. By creating interiors that transcend fleeting trends, we ensure the space remains relevant for many years to come. To us, this is the most authentic expression of a sustainable approach.
In working on this project, our vision was to create a warm, welcoming home while honouring the unique character of the building—a space where grand architecture is organically connected to the lifestyle and personality of the family. We sought timelessness, where classic features harmoniously coexist with contemporary elements, resulting in an interior that is both elegant and deeply personal.
This project has become a reflection of our philosophy: for us, design is not about decoration; it is about working with emotion, atmosphere, and the feelings a space gives to a person. We are guided by a pursuit of balance—between history and modernity, beauty and function, restraint and expression. We believe that a truly refined interior should be both poetic and practical, creating a sense of quiet joy and a genuine feeling of home.
About Dseesion Interiors
Our story began in 2003 when Valeria Senkina decided to launch her practice in the sphere of sophisticated luxury interior design. Since then, we have created and conducted around a hundred projects in the UK, Continental Europe and other countries. At Dseesion, the living space is not just a beautiful environment, to be admired, it is also a place that can embody the spirit and life of the owner. The interior of a house can be beautiful yet functional. The interior creates a positive environment for the owner and the whole family to develop. It becomes a source of energy and strength. We respect and encourage intellectual luxury: our projects combine sophistication, culture, outstanding quality, art and functionality. Dseesion is committed to using natural and sustainable materials to benefit the planet. Our work to date has required about 80% of bespoke furniture and interior elements to be manufactured in the best, world class production facilities across the globe. Dseesion is thinking ahead, every day, so we already have significant experience in smart home technology and solutions for finer living.
The celebrated Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas has now drawn to a close, and Katharine Pooley would like to take a moment to share more about the finer details behind their installation, “The Study.” For those new to Kips Bay, the Show House is an esteemed annual design event that brings together leading talents from across the industry to transform a home-each space a showcase of creativity-all in support of the remarkable Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club. From a bespoke rug designed in house, a magnificent one of a kind cabinet, our rich velvet sofa and of course the magnificent desk sitting in pride of place, the space was dotted with treasures and motifs that gave the room an incredible energy. It has been magnificent to hear such positive feedback on the scheme and it is fair to say I have left a piece of my soul in Dallas for the time being. Thank you again to our incredible suppliers, my team and all the patrons who came to visit – what an incredible event, all for the most wonderful cause.
I choose a refined palette of dark blues and warm ochres which came together to create a contemporary study interwoven with homages to classicism. The space was enveloped in a beautiful shade of ‘Van Deusen’ blue from Benjamin Moore and panelled walls finished with hand-painted Venetian plaster wallpaper by Studio E. Artwork in the setting was carefully curated to suggest the intimacy and intention of a collection assembled over a lifetime, and included compositions by Piero Centofanti, Quintessa Art and pieces from my own collection. These works were paired with some landscapes from one of my favourite artists, Deborah Tarr, and suspended on a distinctive chain hanging system, handcrafted by Collier Webb.
When planning the room, I wanted to draw the eye to the beautiful, original joinery so each shelf showcased a unique array of antique and contemporary finds. They came from a number of sources, including my London Boutique, my own private collection and some of our most beloved and trusted suppliers. Each thoughtfully chosen piece told a story and gave a glimpse into my style. The pieces were set against Etamine’s radiant Solaire fabric and my favourite detail was including a bronze bust of my Father, Robert Pooley.
At the heart of the room stood a bespoke desk made in a British style, but crafted in American walnut and walnut burr veneer by Parkway England. The piece intertwined British history beautifully with American timber, and is complemented by a deep blue Holly Hunt leather blotter. The desk was accessorised with treasures such as an El Casco gold-plated pencil sharpener, sourced from Abask’s distinctive collection, while an Alexander Lamont Geo table lamp provided the perfect soft glow. Behind the desk sat the striking ‘Quiver Klimos’ leather chair by Soane Britain. A bespoke sofa by Bray Design, upholstered in de Le Cuona’s Vienna Velvet in ‘Hula’ and a Samuel & Sons’ trim sat in a cosy corner of the room accented with striking blue cushions as well as Holland & Sherry’s newly launched ‘Pennant’ design. Flanking the sofa, a pair of Vaughan floor lamps with Heathfield & Co. ‘Sandstone’ linen shades cast a warm glow onto Alexander Lamont Portico Side Tables.
At the centre of the space, sat a handsome Chalon steamer trunk I found at Bentleys London, while a bespoke hand-tufted, New Zealand wool rug by Ice International anchored the scheme with geometric patterns in blues and oranges. Floor-to-ceiling windows were dressed in Holland & Sherry fabrics with a decorative ‘Argyle’ trim. These were expertly handcrafted by The Shade Store with de Le Cuona’s ‘Regatta’ linen sheers delicately layered behind.
Adding to the room’s allure was crowd-favourite, the freestanding ‘Fakir’ drinks cabinet from David Gill Gallery crafted in stainless steel and nickel. Inside I chose fine stemware by William Yeoward Crystal and barware from my own collection which included a vintage crystal pineapple showpiece alongside an extraordinary Art Deco-inspired, boat-tail shaped racing car silver cocktail shaker. To one side, the FBC London ‘Angelina’ lounge chair in wool bouclé was complemented by the ‘Column’ side table with striking Calacatta Viola top, while a de Gournay folding screen added further decoration. On the lounge chair, I placed a textured Toyine Sellers cushion to add contrast while overhead, the ceiling shimmered with metallic paper in ‘Smooth Sterling’ by Phillip Jeffries, crowned by a chandelier from Vaughan. The overall design of the study was absolutely brought to life by exquisite architectural lighting by John Cullen Lighting.
A big thank you to our incredible suppliers and sponsors, without whom this initiative simply wouldn’t have been possible. Also a thank you to the wonderful journalists and to every visitor who has walked through our space and explored the house. A special acknowledgement for the team at Gander and White, our exceptional shipping partner and true unsung heros, and finally of course, to my team: thank you for your dedication and creativity on this journey.
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.
Set within the former Terry’s Chocolate Factory - once home to the iconic Chocolate Orange, The Residence occupies one of the city’s most recognisable industrial landmarks. Carefully redeveloped by PJ Livesey, the historic factory building now offers expansive contemporary apartments high above the surrounding landscape.
It has also become one of our favourite places to work. Over the past few years, Middlethorpe Interiors have redesigned a number of properties within the development, each revealing its own character while responding to the building’s generous industrial proportions. With views stretching across York Racecourse towards York Minster, the Bishop’s Palace and the distant Yorkshire Wolds. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws the surrounding landscape into the interior, while impressive ceiling heights and wide proportions create an immediate sense of openness and light.
For our clients, relocating to York marked the beginning of a new chapter. After many years in a substantial family home in Kent, they were seeking a setting that felt lighter and more manageable while still reflecting their longstanding love of nature and the outdoors. The apartment presented a remarkable blank canvas. Yet with that opportunity came a clear design challenge. The principal room - conceived as a single open-plan living and dining space - was vast, and without careful intervention it risked feeling cavernous rather than welcoming.
Our task was therefore to introduce warmth and visual structure while allowing the openness of the architecture to remain intact.
The scale of the room quickly became the defining element of the project.
The clients brought only a small number of pieces from their previous home. However, when placed within the apartment, these familiar furnishings appeared almost miniature against the generous proportions of the room. Rather than filling the interior with numerous smaller pieces, the approach focused on introducing fewer, more purposeful pieces capable of anchoring the room visually while maintaining a sense of calm and balance.
At the centre of the scheme sits a bespoke media wall spanning the width of the room. Painted cabinetry in a soft olive tone frames a central ribbed oak panel housing a Samsung The Frame TV, allowing the screen to sit discreetly within the joinery and read more like artwork when not in use. Below, a linear fireplace sits within a marble surround, grounding the composition while introducing a refined material contrast. Recessed LED lighting integrated within the joinery provides a soft evening glow, highlighting the texture of the timber and bringing warmth to the room after dark. Open shelving above and to either side provides space for ceramics and woven objects, softening the scale of the cabinetry while introducing layers of texture and visual interest.
Lighting throughout the room was carefully designed to support the different ways the space would be used. A layered lighting plan combines atmospheric lighting with practical task lighting, allowing the room to shift easily between quiet daily living and evening gatherings.
This flexibility was particularly important for the clients, who regularly host groups within their home. Creating a setting that felt welcoming and comfortable for groups of guests therefore became central to the design. To support this, we retained the clients’ two existing sofas and introduced a bespoke oversized ottoman at the centre of the seating arrangement. The piece provides additional seating when required while also offering a practical surface for trays of drinks when entertaining.
The surrounding views and the clients’ love of the outdoors played an important role in shaping the interior palette.
A biophilic colour scheme draws inspiration from the landscape beyond the windows. Soft greens, natural textures and layered materials echo the tones of the Yorkshire countryside while bringing warmth and depth to the interior.
Rather than competing with the view, the design allows the surrounding landscape to remain quietly present within the apartment.
Throughout the day, shifting light and changing skies subtly alter the atmosphere of the room, reinforcing the connection between the interior and its setting.
Working creatively within both the scale of the apartment and the practical limits of the budget became one of the most rewarding aspects of the project. Between the study and the living room, poorly installed glass panels disrupted the visual rhythm of the interior. Our original design proposed bespoke doors to soften the transition between the two spaces, but this solution ultimately proved beyond the available budget. Instead, we developed a panelled partition designed to echo the proportions of traditional doors while introducing structure and architectural rhythm to the room.
The result allows the spaces to remain visually connected while bringing a stronger sense of balance to the interior - a reminder that thoughtful design solutions often emerge when creativity must stretch a little further.
What began as a vast open canvas has become a home that feels calm, balanced and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Carefully scaled joinery, layered lighting and a restrained palette allow the architecture of the converted factory building to remain the hero while introducing the warmth and comfort required for everyday living.
Above all, the apartment now reflects the lives of its owners - a place shaped by landscape, light and the simple pleasure of welcoming friends and family.
“We are delighted with the final outcome of the refurbishment, and it now truly feels like home. Thank you to the whole team for guiding us through the process - we’re looking forward to welcoming friends and family to enjoy our new home.”
About Middlethorpe Interiors
Middlethorpe Interiors is a York-based interior design studio creating calm, considered homes that feel natural, personal and enduring. Working across period properties, new builds, city apartments and countryside retreats, the studio offers a discreet, professional service tailored to how each client lives. Services range from full interior design for whole-home transformations to one-room decoration, colour consultancy, bespoke soft furnishings and virtual design support. Known for thoughtful detailing, balanced schemes and a structured, well-managed approach, Middlethorpe Interiors works closely with homeowners across York, Harrogate, Wetherby and the wider North of England to create interiors that feel both effortless and deeply lived in.
Set on the edge of the historic Failand Estate, this charming Grade II Listed Coach House sits within a tranquil country setting surrounded by National Trust farmland and Forestry Commission woodland. Approached via a long driveway, the property enjoys a rare sense of privacy and rural calm, despite its close proximity to Clifton Village.
Originally built as an ancillary estate building, the Coach House has evolved over time into a private residence, retaining the proportions and architectural character typical of historic coach houses found throughout Bristol’s rural fringes. Generous ceiling heights, original detailing and established gardens give the property a strong sense of place, with both a secluded rear garden and a characterful front courtyard featuring a striking loggia.
Prior to our involvement, the property had been modernised and had lost much of its original charm and individuality. The clients approached Khaya Studio to help make the house feel special once again - seeking a home that felt timeless, characterful and lived in, while remaining practical for contemporary country living. As interior designers specialising in period property renovation across Bristol, Bath and Somerset, this project offered the perfect opportunity to reintroduce warmth, heritage and quiet elegance to a historic home.
Our design approach focused on restoring authenticity, warmth and proportion to this grand home, while ensuring the spaces felt comfortable, practical and lived in for modern life. Our first recommendation was to establish a stronger foundation within the hallway and principal living spaces. The existing carpet felt at odds with the period of the property, so we proposed natural limestone flagstones - more in keeping with a historic coach house and ideal for layering textured rugs. Underfloor heating was incorporated to enhance comfort while discreetly supporting contemporary living.
The colour palette was inspired by the surrounding landscape and the clients’ love of gardening. Soft, dusty greens were paired with warm, earthy orange tones to bring the outdoors in, while maintaining a welcoming, cocooning feel. Although the living and dining areas are open plan, subtle distinction was created through colour: the living space wrapped in green to feel grounded and intimate, and the dining area finished in a pale neutral to keep it light and relaxed.
Proportion and scale were central to the design. With generous ceiling heights and expansive proportions, the existing furniture felt disconnected. The original fireplace - the heart of the room - was celebrated with an oversized antique mirror echoing the home’s leaded windows, flanked by brass candle sconces. A striped loveseat was positioned beside the hearth, appearing as though it had always belonged there.
A large antique sideboard was introduced to discreetly house the television and provide storage, while a three-seater sofa was positioned within the window alcove, flanked by antique side tables and anchored by a brass coffee table. A quiet reading corner was created opposite, complete with an armchair, floor lamp and a treasured portrait of the client’s grandfather, which was integral to the scheme. The living area was unified with a generously scaled patterned rug, drawing together the colour palette.
In the dining space, bespoke banquette seating was designed to maximise seating and hidden storage, layered with cushions for comfort. An antique dining table sits at the centre, crowned by a floral-inspired pendant, while a picture light highlights artwork of personal significance. Throughout the scheme we sought to balance respect for the building’s heritage with timeless interior design, ensuring the Coach House once again feels special, soulful and deeply personal.
The completed scheme is a home that feels deeply considered, timeless and full of quiet confidence - one that honours its historic origins while supporting the rhythms of modern family life. What was once a space that had lost its charm has been transformed into a layered, characterful interior that feels both elevated and entirely welcoming.
Natural materials, carefully balanced colour palettes and thoughtfully scaled furnishings now work in harmony with the architecture of the Coach House. Original features have been celebrated rather than overshadowed, and each space feels cohesive, warm and beautifully resolved. The result is an interior that feels as though it has evolved naturally over time, rather than being overly designed.
It was an absolute joy to work on this project with such wonderful clients, and we felt truly honoured to be invited into this beautiful home. The collaborative nature of the process, combined with a shared appreciation for heritage and detail, allowed the design to develop in a way that exceeded even our own expectations.
We hope the family will enjoy these spaces for many years to come - gathering, unwinding and creating countless new memories within a home that once again feels special, personal and full of life.
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