Victoria + Albert’s Lussari collection, launched in 2023, marked a number of ‘firsts’ for Victoria + Albert: the first time the brand has launched a suite of baths with the same shape; its first corner bath; and its first simultaneous UK and European launch. The original collection comprised of a freestanding bath, a corner bath and a back-to-wall, all sharing the same interior profile, together with a matching countertop basin. Lussari was an instant commercial success for Victoria + Albert and is now firmly established amongst its best-selling models.
Two years later Victoria + Albert is extending the range, with two new washbasins, the Lussari 50 and larger Lussari 60. Both are elegant D-shaped basins, designed to match the back-to-wall bath. Like the baths, they have slim walls and a gently curved rim for touch of sophistication. Both are installed against the wall for a watertight seal, with a slim ledge for mounting brassware or arranging bathroom luxuries.
The basins can be ordered with one or three holes for monobloc basin mixers or three-hole models. For those who prefer wall-mounted taps, and would like to keep the ledge clear, they can also be specified without holes. As with the baths, the basins are available in gloss or matt finishes (the velvety matt finish is a no-cost option) and the exterior can be painted in any of 200 RAL colours, to match any bathroom design.
The new Lussari basins should further increase the appeal of the Lussari collection while enhancing Victoria + Albert’s reputation as a design leader in the category.
Victoria + Albert Baths was born out of a passion for luxury bathing. The vision was simple: to set the standard for style, innovation, and performance in bathing products. Renowned for exceptional design and rigorous attention to detail, Victoria + Albert developed a unique material called QUARRYCAST™, made from a blend of Volcanic Limestone™ and high-performance resins. Volcanic Limestone™ is Victoria + Albert’s name for the very special white rock that is perfect for making baths and basins. Volcanic Limestone™ rock is milled and blended with high quality resins to bind the strands of rock into a complex 3D matrix. The finished result is QUARRYCAST™ - a world class stone composite that delivers unrivalled strength, durability, and beauty. Victoria + Albert is part of the House of Rohl family of brands, alongside Perrin & Rowe (kitchen and bathroom brassware and sanitaryware), Shaws (fireclay sinks) and Riobel (kitchen and bathroom brassware).
About Perrin & Rowe
The World's finest range of bathroom and kitchen fittings. Perrin & Rowe is a British-based brassware manufacturer with an unrivaled reputation internationally – bringing together traditional craftsmanship and manufacturing methods with precision engineering. Perrin & Rowe is a distinctive member of the House of Rohl.
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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.
Let's be honest, flush plates don't usually steal the spotlight in a bathroom! But Roca is about to change that with Duplo S, a collection that proves even the smallest details can make a big impact.
Designed for homeowners and designers who appreciate both style and functionality, Duplo S offers a bold new take on flush plates. Featuring a mix of sleek finishes, premium materials, and eye-catching designs, this collection brings an unexpected touch of sophistication and, dare we say, fun to any bathroom. Please note, Duplo S flush plates are exclusively compatible with the Roca Duplo S Toilet Installation Systems.
With five distinct models-PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4 (Single and Dual) and PS5-Duplo S caters to every style preference. Choose from designs with more conventional square and rectangular buttons or rounded geometric shapes, all in a wide choice of colours and finishes.
For a minimalist look, there's White, Chrome, Matt White and Matt Black, while the contemporary Glass finishes in White, Anthracite and Black bring a crisp, polished edge to the bathroom. Meanwhile, for a luxurious touch, the collection features metallic PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes in Titanium Black, Brushed Titanium Black, Rose Gold, Brushed Brass, and Brushed Stainless Steel, designed to perfectly complement Roca's brassware. PVD is a durable coating process that provides a sleek, high-quality metallic finish, enhancing both appearance and longevity.
Duplo S plates also come in five new organic-look and textured finishes -Ceramic White, Ceramic Black, Concrete, Slate and Oak - which add warmth. And if you love a bold, playful statement, vibrant shades like Honey Yellow, Mint Green and Cobalt Blue introduce a fresh pop of colour that makes an impact.
The Duplo S collection seamlessly integrates with some of Roca's existing ranges. For example, the Honey Yellow flush plate is the same shade as Nu brassware, while the Rose Gold finish coordinates with the ONA Rose Gold toilet roll holder.
"Homeowners want their bathrooms to feel intentional and well thought out. Matching elements-whether it's taps, accessories, or flush plates - help elevate the overall design. It's these small but impactful details that transform a bathroom into a beautifully curated space," says Natalie Bird, Brand Marketing Manager at Roca UK.
Another advantage of the Duplo S flush plate is its compact size. Measuring 20.5 x 14.5cm, it is smaller than most plates on the market, which are typically 25 x 16cm. This makes it more aesthetically pleasing.
For those who want to add a personalised touch, the PS3 and PS4 models can be customised, allowing you to create a flush plate that perfectly suits your scheme. With 11 front panel finishes and four push button colours to choose from, you could pair Concrete with Matt Black for a bold, industrial feel or combine Oak with Brushed Brass for a warm, sophisticated look.
"With its versatile design, premium materials and customisation options, the Duplo S collection transforms the flush plate from a simple necessity into a standout feature of modern bathroom design," says Natalie. "This collection is more than just a finishing touch-it's an opportunity to elevate bathroom aesthetics in a way that is both functional and full of character."
About Roca London Gallery
Roca have more than 100 years experience of designing bathroom products and kitchen solutions with the aim of increasing peoples quality of life through continuous innovation in the production of sanitary ceramics.
For years, minimalism has reigned supreme, with its muted tones, clean lines, and decluttered spaces. Over the last year, the pendulum started to swing in the opposite direction, welcoming the bold, the vibrant, and the unapologetically expressive. Maximalism is taking centre stage, offering a fresh perspective on interior design that prioritises personality, texture, and layers of visual interest.
Cheryl Herweg from Changing Spaces Interior Design says “Maximalism Design is not clutter but rather about curated abundance. It encourages the use of vibrant hues, luxurious textures, and diverse influences resulting in spaces feeling dynamic and personal.”
She says that some of the key elements of Maximalism Design include:
- Bold colours and patterns Embracing a rich vibrant colour palette and dynamic patterns, from florals to geometric designs, adding a layering of different motifs to create a sophisticated and expressive space. - Statement pieces and collectibles Maximalism thrives on storytelling. Mixing vintage and contemporary pieces, cultural influences, and artistic statements. - Layering and texture Plush fabrics and textiles, ornate furniture, and a variety of materials add depth and warmth to the space. - Mixing styles with confidence Unlike rigid design rules, Maximalism allows you to blend different styles seamlessly. Pair antique furniture with modern accents or combine global influences for a well-travelled aesthetic. - Floor-to-ceiling expression From wallpapered ceilings to bold rugs, maximalism encourages the use of every surface. Statement lighting, gallery walls filled with artwork, dramatic drapery, and intricate mouldings further enhance the layered look.
Interiors that feature Maximalism Design are characterised by their fearless approach to design. Herweg says that a masterfully crafted maximalism space maintains a sense of cohesion through thoughtful curation and strategic layering.
“We have found that clients who appreciate history, culture, and storytelling through design, prefer a Maximalism Design in their homes,” says Herweg, “allowing them to separate from restrictive norms and embrace their tastes for us to create a visually captivating and immersive space for them.” She says that there is still a need for balance, the space is after all still being designed to come together in a stylish and prestigious way. This is done by incorporating a unifying colour scheme, ensuring a sense of flow between elements, and selecting statement pieces with intention.
Herweg concludes, “Maximalism Design is more than just an aesthetic – it is a philosophy that encourages self-expression, creativity and the celebration of life’s richness.” As the design world continues to evolve, maximalism stands as a testament to the power of bold choices and uninhibited creativity.
Images from Changing Spaces Interior Design’s recently completed La Dique project in St Francis Bay, incorporating Maximalism Design.
About Changing Spaces Interior Design
Changing Spaces offers a complete, professional turnkey service utilising top class specialists in each area. Their personal involvement throughout your project is spearheaded by world-class designer Cheryl Herweg. This allows for a thorough insight into the client’s lifestyle and ensures a stunning end result – a totally personal blueprint – that is your unique space. We understand that each client is unique and has their own style and requirements. This ensures that we create absolutely anything that our clients desire or dream of. It is of paramount importance to Cheryl and her team that our relationships with our clients consist of mutual trust, understanding and transparency. Clear and constant communication is key. The personal nature of interior design demands this, and because we always focus on these factors, we ensure that your project is very rewarding and stress free.
Having worked with their clients on a new build property previously they asked Lewis Knox to work on the refurbishment of their own interior, asking for a classic contemporary feel.
The first phase was the Master suite where we designed a bespoke bathroom, bedroom and dressing room. Our clients love to travel and wished their master suite to reflect their love of high quality hotel suites; featuring classic English brands such as Drummonds and Colefax and Fowler.
The bathroom design involved sourcing high quality Italian carrara marble, designing a bespoke patterned floor with timber painted panelling which acted as a refined backdrop for the wallcovering and classic polished nickel fittings specified by Lewis Knox. For the bedroom a handmade corona bed canopy was designed due to the high ceiling proportions which creates a focal point in the room, all soft furnishings were designed and installed by our team.
The next phase of works involve the re-decoration of the guest suites including new ensuite bathroom designs before the ground floor third phase.
Blue hues add a feeling of calm to this serene and tranquil master suite. We designed a bespoke bed canopy with extra large scatter cushions for a sumptuous finish.
We commissioned a local joinery company to manufacture bespoke washstands, wardrobes and a dressing table based on a classic contemporary design which was drawn up in house and managed on site by Lewis Knox.
The stunning cast bathtub by Drummonds forms the centrepiece of the en-suite. Luxuriously oversized and satisfyingly deep!
"Creating a special haven for such lovely clients was an honour. We are busy working on more phases of this whole house refurbishment and cannot wait to share more with you."- Fiona, Interior Designer.
About Lewis Knox
A dynamic interior design studio providing bespoke architectural and interior design services. More than 30 years experience in the luxury residential sector.
Ledbury Studio has elevated stainless steel from industrial to indulgent, marrying it with the warmth of aged brass, the richness of English walnut and the timeless elegance of Carrara marble. The result? A breathtakingly luxurious kitchen that exudes sophistication and charm.
The client's vision was nothing short of enchanting: a kitchen that radiated warmth and femininity, while remaining effortlessly practical for hosting. She also already had her heart set on a La Cornue range cooker. As such, Ledbury Studio founder Charlie Smallbone curated a scheme of brushed stainless-steel cabinetry softened by the opulence of aged brass accents. The bespoke finishes were meticulously hand-matched to the range, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship.
At the heart of the kitchen, a spectacular island commands attention, offering both a generous seating area for drinks or casual dining and plenty of prep space. The Carrara marble worktop is strikingly bisected by a strip of English walnut, visually defining the breakfast bar while adding warmth to the design. In addition, the marble is framed with patinated brass corner detailing, reminiscent of an elegant jewellery box.
Under the breakfast bar, the island is clad in a single sheet of hand-distressed brass, its rich patina lending texture and depth. On the working side, stainless steel drawers gleam with bespoke brass handles, while brass-framed steel panels at each end create a sleek, cohesive finish. Suspended above, a perfectly positioned pendant stylishly illuminates the island.
Storage is seamlessly integrated into the fabric of this exquisite kitchen. To the left of the La Cornue range, built-in shelving provides a refined yet highly functional display, while to the right, a seamlessly integrated fridge is discreetly concealed behind bespoke stainless-steel cabinetry. Underneath, a double sink - sculpted from Carrara marble - makes a striking focal point and is usefully flanked by twin dishwashers.
On the opposite side, a row of fluted glass wall cabinets, elegantly framed in brass, offers both practical storage and a touch of glamour. A thoughtful finishing touch: a brushed stainless-steel frame encasing the brass details subtly links the wall units to the base units, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.
Beyond the kitchen, there is a stylish dining area featuring custom banquette seating and a showstopping round table crafted from book-matched walnut. Then, framing the French doors to the garden, twin storage cupboards - clad in Ledbury Studio's signature 'Choppy Water' carved oak with brass detailing - offer both beauty and function. One serves as a discreet cocktail cabinet, complete with pocket doors and a mirrored back, while the other is a fully equipped larder cupboard.
"This kitchen is a true reflection of Ledbury Studio's dedication to innovative materials and meticulous craftsmanship," says Charlie Smallbone. "The blend of glamour and practicality is seamless, creating a space that is as stunning as it is functional. And what better testament to its success than the client hosting a 50-guest gathering just one week after installation - effortlessly entertaining in her spectacular new kitchen!"
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.
Something that the experts at Roca know all too well is that most people’s bathrooms are on the small side. A compact space doesn’t mean planning it will be minimal, though – in fact, you’ll need to consider everything even more carefully.
“Start by assessing the space available,” advises Natalie Bird, Roca Brand Manager. “Measure the dimensions of your bathroom accurately, including the height. Then, identify and mark the positions of windows, doors and existing plumbing, as this will help in planning the layout efficiently. Then, determine which are the most important fixtures for you; in a compact bathroom, you may need to prioritise a shower over a bath, for example.”
Natalie continues with the following hints and tips – which should help you to create a well-planned stylish and functional compact bathroom that feels much larger than it is.
When choosing fixtures for a compact bathroom, opt for smaller, space-saving options. Consider installing wall-mounted sanitaryware that frees up the floor; this is important because it creates a sense of openness and makes the room feel less cramped. Compact bathtubs designed to fit into tighter spaces are also a great choice. Additionally, seek out multifunctional items that serve dual purposes, such as a vanity unit with built-in storage or a toilet roll holder fixed on the side of your vanity unit. These combine essential functions while maximising the use of available space.
Focus on making optimal use of the available space, however limited. Arrange fixtures to maximise the room's functionality, such as keeping the toilet and basin on one wall to save on plumbing costs and create a more streamlined appearance. Ensure there is enough space to move comfortably by maintaining a good flow throughout the bathroom. And avoid placing sanitaryware or storage too close to doors or windows, as this can obstruct movement and make the room feel more cramped.
To make the most of a compact bathroom, utilise vertical space by installing wall-mounted cabinets and shelves, which help to free up valuable floor space and keep the room uncluttered. Additionally, incorporate hidden storage solutions, such as mirrored cabinets above the basin, to maintain a tidy and organised environment. These clever storage options not only maximise the use of available space but also enhance the overall functionality and aesthetics of the bathroom.
To create a seamless look, use the same flooring throughout the bathroom; larger tiles are particularly effective in making the room appear more spacious. Keep the decor minimal to stop it feeling overwhelming and opt for simple, stylish accessories that enhance the room's aesthetic without overwhelming it. Incorporate personal touches such as plants, artwork or a stylish shower curtain to add character and warmth to the space. Finally, utilise large mirrors to create the illusion of a larger room; they can reflect light and make the space appear twice its actual size, contributing to an open and airy atmosphere.
Stockist: 01530 830080 or uk.roca.com/where-to-buy-showrooms
Teddington is an upcoming suburban area for young families and crowds who like to live in the proximity to London but are after a cosy village feel. Dots & Points were invited to refurbish this terraced townhouse that was left unchanged after its original built in 2003. The house had a neutral and rather bland aesthetic - the walls, upholstery, and curtains were of a safe beige colour range that lacked character. The house owner, Katya, felt her house was dull, uninspiring and always dark. She wanted to inject light and lightness into her living space.
Katya is a dynamic, energetic woman who enjoys travelling a lot. She wanted her home to be a space that resonated with her personality - one that felt alive, inspired her daily, and evoked her most treasured memories. She longed for an interior that wasn’t just visually beautiful but also emotionally rich, a space that would bring her joy and reflect her personal journey.
As we discussed her vision for the home, Katya shared with me her deep love for Ibiza, a place that had captured her heart over the years. She spoke of the island not just as a travel destination but as a feeling - an essence of freedom, vibrancy, and serenity all at once. To her, Ibiza was more than its stunning landscape; it was the rhythm of life itself. She fondly recalled the scent of pine trees mingling with the salty sea air, the distant hum of cicadas on warm summer nights, and the way the island’s energy seemed to pulse in sync with the people who visited it.
Among her cherished mementos from these trips was a small blue Murano glass plate. This delicate yet striking piece became the heart of our project’s concept. We called the project “Ibiza Blue” - a tribute to the island’s crystal-clear waters that shimmer like liquid glass. This single, captivating hue became the starting point for our design journey, inspiring an entire transformation cantered around the essence of Ibiza.
To capture the island’s beauty and atmosphere, I knew colour would play the leading role. This project became an exercise in embracing bold and unexpected colour combinations, weaving together shades that exuded both energy and tranquillity. The palette was anchored in various shades of blue - azure, turquoise, and cerulean - paired with warm creams, pinks, and soft yellows. These accent colours, while not traditionally used together in a single scheme, worked harmoniously to create an engaging and uplifting space. The interplay of hues created a sense of joyful spontaneity while maintaining a cohesive and balanced design.
The result was a home that didn’t just look visually stunning but also evoked an emotional response. The colours seemed to inject the space with a perpetual sense of lightness - the breeze of the morning sea, causing the rustling of the leaves and the energy of the sun. It was heartwarming to see not only Katya and her family embrace the transformation but also her friends, who found the colour scheme both bold and unexpectedly calming.
One of the standout features of this home is its open plan living and dining area. The dining space is elevated slightly above the living room, creating a sense of connection while maintaining distinct zones. Sitting at the dining table, you can still engage in the conversations happening in the living room, making the space feel inclusive and inviting.
To enhance the room’s character and depth, we introduced vintage elements. All wall lights and the two Murano glass chandeliers in the living room are vintage pieces, adding a touch of timeless elegance. The striking black sideboard, sourced and restored by Vintage Ninja Designs, became a statement piece, blending sophistication with a hint of drama.
Another key design element was the creation of two symmetrical, built-in arch-shaped bookcases in a vivid turquoise hue. These bookcases not only serve as practical storage solutions but also act as a central design feature, adding a sculptural element to the room. The arches echo Mediterranean architecture, reinforcing the Ibiza-inspired theme.
Furniture placement played a crucial role in ensuring a welcoming and social atmosphere. The living room was carefully arranged to encourage dialogue and interaction, featuring a combination of armchairs, a loveseat, and a comfortable sofa. This layout fosters an intimate yet flexible seating arrangement, perfect for both lively gatherings and quiet, reflective moments.
The transformation extended beyond the main living spaces to the entry hall, setting the tone for the entire home. The walls were drenched in a soft, light blue, creating an immediate sense of calm and intrigue upon entering. A slim black console table was placed against the wall, offering both function and aesthetic appeal. Black spindles of the staircase balustrade provide a bold contrast against the light blue walls.
To optimise storage, we incorporated practical yet stylish solutions, including built-in drawers under the stairs and a compact wardrobe seamlessly integrated at the back of the staircase. These additions ensured that the entryway remained both beautiful and highly functional, proving that good design is as much about usability as it is about aesthetics.
One of the most challenging aspects of the project were the bespoke fire-rated glazed doors that aligned with the overall design aesthetic but remained within the budget. We eventually found the perfect solution from Black Steel Doors, which provided stunning black steel-framed doors that seamlessly complemented the dining room balustrade. These doors added an industrial-chic element to the space while maintaining an airy, open feel.
This project was an incredibly fulfilling experience. The transformation went beyond aesthetics - it became a deeply personal reflection of Client’s journey, memories, and aspirations. What was once a neutral, uninspired space is now a home bursting with life, colour, and personality.
Designing with such a bold colour palette was a risk, but it paid off in the most rewarding way. Seeing Katya’s joy and the way her home now truly represents her spirit is a reminder of why I love what I do. Ibiza Blue isn’t just a colour - it’s a feeling, a memory, and now, a home brought to life.
About DOTS & POINTS
DOTS & POINTS is an interior architecture and design studio working on full scope renovations and turnkey design projects from family houses to modern city apartments. We cover everything needed to support our clients from initial concepts and technical design to sourcing, installation, and final styling. We always start with an idea and a thoughtful spatial design as there is no beauty without function and comfort. We believe that good design is about understanding. Clients’ aspirations and day-to-day needs together with our professional expertise transform their properties into individually tailored homes. Identifying our style as a blend of classic and contemporary, we develop elegant and refined timeless interiors. We love mixing vintage and modern, working with colours and light, balancing patterns and textures. We are all different as are our homes. That is why our interiors are eclectic, unique but always echoing client’s personality so that they can feel it truly their home.
Bedrooms for young and old. Spaces to hang out and places to retreat. A stylish but practical update, designed for their life.
As families change, the way they live changes too. Lewis Knox's clients had enjoyed ten years in their home, but it just wasn’t working for their ever-growing family of six.
The project kicked off with a bedroom for twin boys aged nine. It needed to be a space for now – and the future. We designed a bunk-style set of beds with moveable singles on the ground floor, tiered steps with added storage, and comfortable mattresses above. These lofty spaces making flexible hideouts for friends to stay in, the boys to read in, and dens to be made in.
When our interior architects take on a new residential design it’s all about maximising the potential of every room. Creating fitted wardrobes in the existing alcove freed up valuable floor space and allowed us to personalise the space for the two boys. Rugs and blanket boxes inspired by their love of Harry Potter and passion for geography put a personal twist on their individual zones.
"We designed a bunk-style set of beds with moveable singles on the ground floor, tiered steps with added storage, and comfortable mattresses above. These lofty spaces making flexible hideouts for friends to stay in, the boys to read in, and dens to be made in." - Helen, Founder & Interior Designer.
We carried the deep blue tone through to the 15-year-olds’ room and complemented it with a grown-up tan and bronze scheme. White wall paneling designed by our interiors studio levelled up the freshness too.
"The space needed to be a calm retreat but reflect the personality of a rugby and music obsessed teen. So we designed neat display areas and a full wall of storage – to make keeping it tidy as simple as possible." - Beth, Interior Designer.
Bespoke bedside cabinets with tan leather handles and weathered oak timber details added sophisticated touches, and matching drawers and an end of bed stool offered more all-important storage.
The ensuite got a smart and airy makeover too, with fresh tiling, fittings and decoration that help the two spaces seamlessly flow.
Guest bedrooms can be overlooked, but our client wanted a tranquil space that visitors would want to spend time in. Our studio designed a custom-made oversized headboard that creates a sense of more space in the room and bespoke fitted wardrobes for the alcove. Texture was key and we used natural timbers, rattan, and woven wallcoverings to make this a sophisticated sanctuary.
The final piece of the puzzle was taking the former playroom and transforming it into a smart den for the four boys. With plenty of storage for games and toys but lots of room for gaming and entertainment, it’s a space designed to grow with them.
Bristol’s Totterdown neighbourhood has long been a favourite corner of this ever-surprising, vibrant and ferociously independent city, known for its steep hills, Edwardian terraces and higgedly-piggedly streets bursting with character.
As one of Bristol’s more bohemian quarters, it’s a hotbed of creativity and charm. When Hannah Redden was commissioned to transform the basement living room of a Totterdown family home, I knew it was a real opportunity to get creative. As such, I positively leapt at the chance to help it shine, confident in the knowledge I could apply my skills to truly bring out the owners’ character in this subterranean space. After all, what is interior design for if not ensuring your personality is reflected in the rooms where we spend our time?
Upon visiting the basement living room in need of a thorough design solution, the issue at hand was clear: it simply lacked the soul, colour and personality the individuals who lived there had in spades. While the remainder of the home managed to express that essence of being - with copious artwork hanging on the walls and plenty of vibrancy to be found - the basement room with its open-plan kitchen was a little neglected, a little gloomy.
It’s a common situation with basement rooms, even ones with as much potential as this one - there’s something about a lack of natural light that leads spaces to be forgotten, left as an afterthought, or a project that never truly gets underway. I was delighted that this family, who clearly had a deep love for design and creativity, had taken the initiative to really make the most of what could be an absolutely thrilling addition to any home.
Indeed, the homeowners had plenty of good ideas to get this project underway. During my initial fact finding, I was told they were keen on a bohemian look and feel - ‘urban modern’ and ‘a bit Scandi’ were mentioned, as well as a real love for green tones ranging from deep forest greens to pale turquoise hues.
As always, the first job was to get to know what made this family tick. Spending some time with a client, asking the right questions, picking up on those visual cues and getting under the surface of what their hopes and aspirations for a space might be, is a real secret weapon in the interior designer’s arsenal. This family was more than happy to show me their favourite artworks, discuss colours and flick through mood boards and other forms of inspiration, taking an active role in the all-important early stages of the process.
My plan was to introduce more natural light into the space (despite being a basement, the room benefited from a bay front and sizable window), and then apply light, neutral colours and various features to transform a gloomy basement into a cosy, family-friendly and fully functional and practical aspect of the home.
Simply put, the task was to create an underappreciated space into a striking one that is full of life, and where the family of four could enjoy spending time and finding inspiration. By introducing additional shelving into the alcoves, I maximised the space in which the family could showcase ornaments, decorations and artwork. This also allowed the antique stove and flue to become a central feature of the room, further highlighted by the addition of original artwork above it.
Bringing colour into this space was absolutely vital to introduce that characterful, urbane vibe the homeowners were seeking. After some deliberation, we decided to go forwards with Hague Blue for the lower walls and Arsenic Green for above the picture rail and extending onto the ceiling. I was delighted with these choices, not least because the deep, rich tone of Hague Blue on the lower walls creates a grounding effect, adding depth and intimacy to the space. Countering this, the vibrant Arsenic Green draws the eye upwards, making the room feel more dynamic and uplifting.
A sense of creating a real sanctuary was achieved by leaning into the cosy potential of this basement room. I proposed using the ceiling itself as a ‘fifth wall’, and by incorporating colour into the ceiling, we were able to not only introduce an intriguing and bold design element, we also created a cohesive, enveloping feel to the space. This approach brought vibrancy and balance to the basement, but also succeeded in highlighting the stunning architectural features of the room, with the picture rail becoming a real standout and allowing for a sense of playfulness.
Of course, light also had an important role to play. The voiles on the window allow for additional light to enter the basement room, and introducing characterful lighting fixtures - a fun, unusual overhead lampshade and the pre-existing standing lamp the family were keen to keep - meant the space maintained a cosy ambience once the natural light had faded.
The result of the project was injecting the basement room not only with a quirky character and cosiness befitting the family home, but also with a heightened sense of functionality and practicality. This was no longer an additional room beneath the house - a place where items were stored, and very little else happened - it was a vibrant and valued feature of the property, where the family could cook, eat, and relax in a private, comfortable and intimate space.
About Hannah Redden Interiors
I’m Hannah; an interior and textile designer with a passion for colour, texture and reinvention. With decades of design experience, I create practical, beautiful spaces which enhance my clients’ experience of living. In other words; inspiring interiors that work in the real world. I provide a professional, personalised interiors service; with each project a collaborative partnership between myself and my client. From a straight-forward consultation to mastering a bold living room colour scheme or helping you translate your ideas for your dream kitchen into reality, I can guide you to concepts and solutions more creative and striking than you ever imagined. I want to encourage confidence in your interior design decisions – helping you to build a home you will enjoy for years to come.
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