Luxury designers Studio Anqet have reimagined a contemporary countryside residence, transforming it into a serene haven for a sociable family. The ambitious project includes a lavish spa building, a spacious BBQ area complete with an indoor-outdoor living terrace, swimming pool and biophilic landscape design.
Located in Much Hadham, Hertfordshire, the property with sprawling grounds presented a unique opportunity to merge the client’s passion for luxury living, wellness, and sustainability. Drawing on the contemporary architecture of the main home, the additional buildings feature elements such as expansive wall-to-wall glazing and ambient lighting design. These design choices not only harmonise with the main residence but also seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings. Inspired by the homeowner’s background in scientific research and his dedication to making the world a better place, Studio Anqet has crafted a design that not only embodies lavish leisure facilities but also promotes holistic wellbeing.
The landscaping and leisure areas surrounding the property were meticulously crafted to serve as a sanctuary for the family. From the expansive swimming pool featuring a distinctive central planter, to the BBQ area complete with a fully equipped kitchen and custom sunken seating zones, each area was introduced to elevate the experience. Both communal gathering spaces and secluded corners were seamlessly integrated to evoke moments of connection or privacy.
At the heart of the outdoor space stands a striking sculpture crafted from polished bronze, aluminium and steel by esteemed artist Lorenzo Quinn. This captivating artwork is visible from the pool and all the glazed outdoor buildings. Wellness amenities feature an outdoor hot tub, a cedar wood sauna adorned with a Himalayan salt wall, indoor and outdoor showers, and an array of massage features, including a soothing foot spa. Each area is designed to indulge relaxation and evoke mental harmony through multiple sensory experiences.
A selection of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies were also prioritised for the project. From ethically sourced stone tiles to composite wood decking made from sustainable materials, every aspect of the project reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact while retaining the luxurious lifestyle of the client.
About Studio Anqet
Studio Anqet is a well-established multi award winning design studio providing interiors, landscape and architectural design services. At Studio Anqet, we believe that impeccable design has the power to improve lives. Our bespoke interiors & landscapes are conceived to uplift, inspire and delight. Guided by our clients’ aspirations, we breathe life into personal visions – turning houses into incredible homes and buildings into beautiful sanctuaries. We see possibilities others may not, finding beauty in the everyday and solutions where none seem to exist. This spirit runs through everything we create. Studio Anqet’s identity is shaped by our agility, persistence, and personal touch. We are Industry trailblazers committed to wellness-centric design and sustainable practices. Our work is a tribute to both our Egyptian namesake – the goddess of the Nile River – and the new life we help cultivate every day.
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When Sarah Griffin and her husband Steve moved into their converted barn in Hampshire 15 years ago, the property came with a kitchen that wasn’t quite right. It was all-white with a disjointed look, yet the couple knew they would have to live with it for a few years as it was brand new, so they bided their time and waited.
The six-bedroom, five-bathroom home has two wings either side of a central atrium with glass windows from the ground up. The couple have four daughters, one of whom still lives at home as the others have all grown up and moved away, and it was only once the existing appliances, which included a range cooker, started slowing down that Sarah and Steve knew the time had come to change.
“I spent a couple of years researching what I wanted,” says Sarah. “I looked at different bespoke kitchen companies, but they were never quite right. I needed something fully custom made for the high ceilings and wanted furniture that was maybe locally made, too.” It was only after searching online that Sarah came across Higham Furniture, with its showroom in Fulham, London. “I loved their handleless Shaker look, as it’s very refined, clean lined and with the right combination of traditional and modern to suit this house.” Sarah then realised that the Higham Furniture workshop was in Denmead, only 15 miles from her house, which sealed the deal.
“I was able to visit the workshop,” explains Sarah, “and I was blown away. Tim Higham showed me their process and what makes them so different is that they manufacture the kitchens on site and then build and assemble them there too, in order to make sure every detail is perfect before installation. Even the appliances are fitted in this pre-build process.” This stress and hassle-free approach was exactly what Sarah and Steve were looking for.
Once she had selected the cabinetry, it was time to pick the appliances. Sarah and Steve have always had Miele for their laundry appliances so when it came to choosing their cooking kit, they knew it had to be Miele. “We went to the Miele Experience Centre in Abingdon, Oxfordshire,” says Sarah, “which was absolutely brilliant. First because it was a real treat to be cooked for by a chef and second because we were shown all the different styles of cooking and the appliances available. It really helped to refine what I wanted. We walked round with a piece of paper and chose everything on that day. I knew I wanted a steam oven but I also wanted it to be a fan oven when needed, so I chose the Miele DGC 7440 XL steam combination oven with the Miele H 7464 BP pyrolytic oven. I never knew that a warming drawer could double as a slow cooker, so that was really interesting to learn and we selected the Miele ESW 6214 gourmet warming drawer. By the end of the day we had a list with all the model numbers and the finishes of the appliances we wanted.”
In the old kitchen, the range cooker was against the back wall so in the new design, Sarah wanted the space to look more like a reception room that happened to be a kitchen. The island was to be the star of the show with Miele’s ovens, warming drawer and KM 7575 FR induction hob with PowerFlex cooking areas for maximum power output.
“The Miele appliances are fantastic,” says Sarah. “They come to temperature so quickly, which I really appreciate as my old range cooker was getting slower and slower. It makes a huge difference. Also, I’d never used an induction hob before and I love it. I love how quick and responsive it is. I can also keep it completely clean if anything does boil over. I cook a roast every Sunday and now, with the new appliances and my boiling water tap, the prep only takes 30 minutes whereas before it used to take hours. It’s also been lovely to see my daughters become more confident with cooking and enjoying it more when they come to visit.”
Having their day out at the Miele Experience Centre really helped Sarah hone in on her appliance choices. “A couple of friends have induction hobs but they were a bit of a mystery to me. Seeing it demonstrated by the chef at Miele made all the difference. It was a lovely way to spend the day with plenty of time to look around.”
The kitchen flows seamlessly into a utility room, which is furnished with cabinetry painted in the same colour palette and finished with a stacked Miele WKB 120 freestanding washing machine and TWH 620 WP tumble dryer, which the couple already owned. “In the last 20 years we’ve only had a few models as they really do last. The Miele appliances are such good value for money and even if they do need servicing, that can be done rather than having to buy new. This space isn’t an embarrassment anymore; it’s a lovely area to work in.”
The overall colour scheme for the kitchen and utility brings a sense of the outside, in. “It helps to connect with the garden,” adds Sarah. “Our windows and central atrium are all in oak and I wanted elements of oak but not completely throughout. The colours reflect the décor in the rest of the house – greys, blues and greens – and as soon as I saw the handleless Shaker design I was so clear that I wanted something that didn’t look like a purely functional kitchen.” The palette features a combination of Little Greene’s Slaked Lime Deep, Pompeian Ash. “Alexander the designer at Higham knew exactly what I wanted. We had our design appointment in London, during which we chose 95% of what we wanted because he absolutely understood what we were saying. It was all a really lovely process from start to finish.”
About Miele
All Miele appliances are designed to enjoy a long lifespan, have a strong focus on sustainability through efficiency and innovative features, and further enrich your kitchen with timeless looks.
Originally constructed in 1995, this residence, nestled in the captivating Finian’s Bay, underwent a transformative journey when acquired by our client in 2022.
The Style So Simple team was entrusted with enhancing its existing architectural charm and meticulously infusing the home with organic elements, texture and a calming colour palette.
The result is a rustic yet timeless interior that complements and does not overtake the breathtaking exterior views, notably showcasing the famous Skelligs.
Project type: Renovation Interior Architecture and Design Location: St. Finian’s Bay Co. Kerry, Ireland Design and Design Management: Style So Simple
About Style So Simple
Style So Simple is dedicated to crafting beautiful, livable homes for all of life’s moments. From functional interior layouts to the final design touches, Style So Simple specialises in curating interiors that make the best use of space while reflecting the unique style of each client.
While trends in bathroom design may not change as rapidly as fashion, bathroom manufacturers are still tasked with staying ahead of the curve. With this in mind, Roca presents its take on the freshest inspirations, colours, and looks for bathrooms. This is partly in response to the trends set at this year’s Salone del Mobile in Milan. Moreover, it serves as a summary of how Roca plans to incorporate these ideas in the upcoming year and beyond, especially within its new Tura collection.
The essence of the Mediterranean is making waves in bathroom design, infusing a fresh, timeless elegance into these formerly purely utilitarian spaces. This trend captures the region’s vibrant culture, rich history and stunning natural beauty, transforming everyday areas into luxurious sanctuaries of relaxation and style. This transformation is achieved, in part, through the use of natural materials that not only provide durability but also add warmth and texture, creating a welcoming environment. Mediterranean-inspired colours also play a crucial role, with shades of blue, white and terracotta reminiscent of the sparkling Mediterranean sea and its sun kissed landscapes.
Mediterranean-inspired bathrooms often feature large windows, skylights and lush house plants. This design approach blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, enhancing the sense of tranquillity and openness. This ambiance directly influenced the design of the Tura collection, which draws inspiration from how Mediterranean light filters through the shutters that shade Spanish windows. As an homage to this, wooden slatted shelves were included in the Tura furniture.
Renowned for its warm, earthy tones, terracotta is a prominent trend in modern bathroom design, offering a perfect blend of aesthetic appeal, practicality and comfort. One of the greatest strengths of terracotta is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of colours and materials, including whites, greys, greens and natural woods, allowing homeowners to create a harmonious and cohesive look. Its warmth also helps to create an inviting and relaxing retreat – and with this in mind, Roca introduced Light Terracotta as a signature colour for the Tura bathroom furniture.
This year’s bathroom design trends are embracing soft lines and rounded shapes, marking a shift towards more organic, fluid aesthetics that promote relaxation anc harmony. Elements such as oval mirrors and circular basins are integral to this trend, as they reduce the harshness often associated with modern, angular designs. The freestanding bath in the Tura collection is a good example, as its softly curved shape creates a generous and comfortable interior.
Incorporating curves can also create the illusion of more space. Unlike sharp angles that result in visual barriers, curved lines guide the eye smoothly around the room, enhancing the perception of space, which is particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms. Furthermore, the biophilic design trend, which seeks to connect interior spaces with the natural environment, also drives the popularity of curves. Nature rarely features straight lines, and by incorporating organic shapes, designers create spaces that feel more natural and inviting.
In a world where stress is omnipresent, neutral colours help create a spa-like, tranquil atmosphere in the bathroom. Shades such as soft whites, warm greys and gentle beiges promote relaxation and a sense of well-being. In addition to Light Terracotta, the Tura furniture is available in calming shades of Off-White and Light Noble Grey.
Neutral colours also provide a versatile backdrop in the bathroom, enabling homeowners to update accessories and fixtures without affecting the overall colour scheme. This adaptability is especially appealing to those who frequently refresh their decor. The Tura collection accessories exemplify this trend, as their neutral colours derive from their natural composition – recycled felt storage boxes and recycled cork lids, which also function as basin shelves.
Roca’s Tura collection is available now and comprises a Stonex® freestanding bath; ceramic basins, WCs and bidets, available in Gloss White, Supraglaze® White and Matt White finishes; and furniture in Off-White, Light Noble Grey and Light Terracotta.
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.
The beautiful Contemporary New Build on an old barn site is a high end, low carbon family home. Encompassing an environmental architecture ethos, that’s fully accessible in a sensitive conservation area. Designed by Terry Pinto at PADD Architects Ltd.
Our wonderful clients Debra & Kim were a fabulous, creative couple. As a Horticulturalist (Debra) and Sculptor (Kim) they moved from London to Dorset to create their dream home and enjoy a slightly slower pace of life. Both were instrumental in the design process and wanted to create a unique personalised kitchen to enjoy for years to come. The Kitchen brief for this stunning New Build Home in the heart of the beautiful Dorset countryside was clear…
‘I want a truly bespoke reclaimed wood and galvanised steel kitchen, reminiscent of outback buildings back home in Australia,’ said Debra. Before adding ‘Fully loaded with uber cool Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances, concrete worktops and a walk-in larder.’
The brief was detailed yet open to Katies creative input in terms of colours, finishes and the small yet important details, such as the seating area, integrated chopping blocks and storage configuration.
Debra had been to numerous kitchen design companies before approaching Elementi Cucina and was told the same thing ‘Sorry we can’t do that’ Katie Lusty, Design Director at Elementi Cucina, on meeting Debra said ‘Hell yeah! We can do that’ and then set about designing and creating a truly unique, showstopping kitchen, with the client on board for the entire wild ride from conception to completion.
Katie set about designing the kitchen with our joinery team, with the starting point of using reclaimed wood was sourced from an old school in Scotland, complete with the ink stains still visible on the planks, which we retained, of course. We teamed egger board carcasses in sultry graphite grey (well the inside needed to be as amazing as the outside), a mild steel was used to band the edges of the doors and stabilise the doors, rivet detailing was used as the frame for the reclaimed wood doors. Finally galvanised sheet material cladding was used for the island back units and cladding panels (outback building style, just like the client requested) also concealing the Sub-Zero wine fridge, all finished off with rusted mild steel plinth with a clear lacquer.
Next were the appliances and we opted for Sub-Zero & Wolf for the drama and industrial feel they brought to the space but also the practicality and functionality, as Debra is a very keen cook, and the kitchen is very much a stunning yet usable working space for her. The imposing freestanding Sub-Zero fridge freezer looks stunning and gives fantastic refrigeration storage space whilst the Wolf range with its iconic red knobs gives amazing function and stunning looks teamed with the Wolf extractor in steel to compliment the other appliances. A Sub-Zero wine fridge incorporated on the back of the island gives perfect wine storage for parties. The client re-used their own Neff microwave and Coffee Machine as they had been recently purchased for their old property and were keen to upcycle and re use.
Worktops were fabricated in poured concrete which gives an industrial feel to the space, with the large island most certainly the focal point, Antique Mirror was used as a splashback to reflect the stunning Dorset countryside and Debra’s beautiful gardens surrounding the property.
The brassware needed to look just as amazing, so the Watermark collection Elan wall mounted tap was used on the main sink with a Zip tap for hot, chilled, and sparking water at the touch of a button on the island, Debra also wanted the functionality of the Kholer tap on the prep sink.
The finished kitchen and the overall effect is simply very unique and the clients love the new space created just for them!
About Elementi Cucina LTD
Here at Elementi Cucina we create beautiful bespoke Interiors for your private residence, development, retail space or show home. Working with the finest kitchen, bedroom and lifestyle furniture manufactures, we can create timeless interior solutions for your home. Renowned worldwide for their design flair we believe that luxury Italian furniture & kitchen brands have it all. Flexibility in manufacturing, colour palette, veneers and high end quality. As designers, this gives us the ability to create truly unique spaces. As an addition to this Elementi Cucina has its own Taylor Made solutions made in the UK. By working closely with our design team and our highly skilled craftsmen/women we can produce one off creations for your space.
The Bolshakova Interiors team drew inspiration from the boundless azure sea and the soothing touch of sunlight to craft their design concept for an opulent three-bedroom apartment nestled in a prestigious spot along Limassol’s seafront promenade in Cyprus. This exceptional dwelling is located within ‘The One,’ Europe’s tallest seafront tower. The tower, a stunning architectural achievement, was envisioned by the esteemed architect Hakim Khennouchi of WKK Architects and brought to life in 2021 by the renowned real estate developer Pafilia.
With its underlying effortless, minimalist-chic approach, the design style of the apartment can be described as modern Mediterranean, characterised by the dominance of beige shades — pearl, creamy, cotton, and seashell. “This concept originates in the aesthetics of Cyprus’s distinct culture and design traditions, as well as the island’s natural beauty, featuring rocky cliffs, tree-covered mountains, and pebble beaches,” shares her inspiration Nataly Bolshakova.
The primary obstacle the design team encountered during this project revolved around reconfiguring the space’s layout. Nataly Bolshakova proposed the creation of a distinct laundry room and wardrobe to address this challenge. Furthermore, Bolshakova’s studio enlarged the kitchen area by rearranging the layout and relocating a kitchen island nearer to the expansive terrace. Consequently, the apartment now boasts a thoughtfully organised space that effortlessly blends functionality with aesthetics.
The 127 square metre apartment encompasses a master bedroom, a son’s room, a guest room, an open-plan kitchen and living area, and a generous terrace. Within the living space, there’s an ample dining area, an open-concept kitchen, and a cosy social zone furnished with a plush milky-hued sofa and a book collection. The use of marble and glossy surfaces throughout echoes the serene environment of Limassol.
The kitchen showcases a sleek minimalist aesthetic, characterised by pristine white surfaces and generous hidden storage solutions. Overcoming an extra hurdle, the studio took on the task of revamping certain furniture pieces, as the apartment was initially furnished with conventional items. Bolshakova Interiors chose to upgrade these with bespoke furniture pieces, following a specific colour scheme to enhance the overall design cohesion.
The stylistic direction, colour palette, and material selection for this interior were driven by the desire to streamline the spatial layout. In the master bedroom, we incorporated textile panels in a calming caramel brown hue and installed warm walnut parquet flooring to introduce a sense of softness and intimacy. These panels were intricately tailored and crafted by hand in Italy, providing not just a decorative touch but also practicality, as they can be conveniently replaced or cleaned when needed.
In the guest bedroom, designers upheld the consistent colour scheme and material selection. Here, an exquisite dressing table from Poliform harmonises with floral patterns adorning the Glamora wallpaper, enhancing the room’s refined and understated elegance.
For the children’s bedroom, the design studio opted for a dynamic design strategy: rich dark wood furniture juxtaposed with white bookshelves set against beige fabric wall panels, accentuated by burgundy armchairs.
Both the master and guest bathrooms are adorned with luxurious marble tiles, showcasing impeccable restroom design elements in sandy and dark chocolate colour palettes.
A standout feature of the interior design is an elegant bespoke wall lamp crafted by the renowned French design brand Art et Floritude. Its organic leaf-inspired design exudes a warm and inviting ambiance in the entrance hall.
A beloved highlight of the apartment is undoubtedly its expansive terrace boasting uninterrupted views of the sea. Adorned with sophisticated outdoor seating from Kettal and a snug hanging armchair by Dedon, this space offers the ideal setting to admire the picturesque horizon in serene comfort.
Location: Limassol, Cyprus Area: 127 sq m Design Team: Nataly Bolshakova, Iryna Kalinyna, Anna Denisenko, Alyona Grigorenko Design Brands featured: Poliform, Flos, Rimadesio, Arclinia Dedar, etc.
About Bolshakova Interiors
Bolshakova Interiors is an international interior design studio that specializes in exclusive private residences worldwide. The team comprises experienced interior designers, architects, and project managers. Offering a bespoke service, it provides unparalleled expertise from the design concept to the selection of furniture, lighting, and accessories. The result is an exciting design journey that is fully customized to meet each client’s wishes, delivering exceptional results.
Mansfield House, our recent installation for a wonderful repeat client in Berkshire.
The clients wanted a contemporary and unique new kitchen to replace the traditional shaker style kitchen they inherited when they moved into their beautiful home, an old coach house with stunning views over a lake.
Everyone thought they were mad to take out the perfectly fine existing kitchen, cream shaker with granite worktops and Miele appliances, but the clients really wanted the kitchen to wow and work for them and their young family.
Having worked with the clients on their previous 2 kitchen projects we knew they were open to ideas and really wanted a much more contemporary cutting-edge space. The scheme had to look individual and stunning with cutting edge Gaggenau appliances throughout, for the keen cook in the house.
We teamed our sleek Italian handle less furniture units in dark soft grey with the stunning tropical storm granite wall cladding, its beautiful organic veining and iridescent properties just shine through and bring a unique, individual element to the project.
Then uber practical Quartz Rokface Luna textured worktops were used on the 5-metre island and hob run add depth and texture to the scheme. Brass accents finish off the look, featuring bespoke artisan painted bronze wall units with a pitted, aged antique brass finish and patinated brass Quooker tap and Dowsing & Reynolds handles on the larder unit to compliment the brass flashes. Gaggenau appliances were the only choice for this discerning client, we went all out with the with the 400 series used throughout, a coffee machine, warming drawer, oven, steam oven, Vario Cool fridge freezer and flex induction hob.
A wine room really ties the space to the dining and living areas and the clients absolutely love the space that reflects their family, as individual as they are.
LAUFEN consistently stays abreast of the leading bathroom trends through collaborations with world-renowned designers. This was evident at the Milan Fair in April, where LAUFEN showcased its trend-led approach in both new product introductions and their presentation. Here’s a summary of five bathroom trends that are likely to continue through 2024 and beyond.
Terracotta, a material celebrated for its earthy warmth and timeless appeal, has emerged as a key influencer in shaping the landscape of modern interior design trends. The charm of terracotta is not confined to the physical spaces it occupies. Its influence pervades deeper, extending to various aspects of interior design including furniture.
The richness of terracotta as a colour is particularly sought after in the bathroom because it adds warmth. Whether it’s a subtle hint of terracotta in a piece of furniture or a bold statement wall, this versatile material elevates the aesthetic appeal of the space, making it truly stand out.
Neutral colours, celebrated for their understated elegance and versatility, play an indispensable role in the world of interior design, particularly when curating a monochromatic scheme. These colours range from the quiet whispers of soft greys to the gentle embrace of warm taupe. Each of these hues, in their own way, contribute to crafting a serene and calming backdrop, which is particularly welcome in a bathroom setting. Variations in neutral tones, however minor, can dramatically alter the ambiance of the room, adding depth and interest. Thus, the use of neutral colours is not just about simplicity, but about creating a balanced and harmonious space that can effortlessly adapt to changes in style or mood.
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go. However, there are a few staples that have stood the test of time due to their timeless elegance and functionality. One such staple in bathroom decor is chrome brassware, which has remained popular for its sleek, minimalist aesthetic and ability to complement any bathroom style.
Timeless and versatile chrome not only blends seamlessly with any colour palette, but also pairs beautifully with a variety of other materials, such as glass, marble and wood. This means that it can easily fit into any bathroom decor, whether you’re aiming for a luxurious spa-like ambiance with marble countertops and glass shower doors, or a cosy, rustic vibe with wooden cabinets and natural stone tiles.
Curves in bathroom design add a soft, organic touch to what is traditionally a space filled with hard, angular lines. They offer a refreshing visual contrast, introducing a more relaxed and natural feel and can also invoke a sense of comfort and luxury, reminiscent of high-end spa retreats. Moreover, curves can make a bathroom appear bigger, as they easily guide the eye through the space.
There are many ways to incorporate curves into a bathroom design. Rounded mirrors are a popular choice, adding a touch of elegance and softening the overall aesthetic. Curved bathtubs and basins can also make a bold statement, serving as a focal point in the room. Even subtle additions, like using rounded tiles or installing curved brassware, can go a long way in transforming the bathroom into a more calming and inviting space.
One of the primary benefits of having plants in your bathroom is the improvement of air quality. Plants naturally absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which can help to freshen up the air in your bathroom. Additionally, certain plants are known to remove harmful toxins from the air. The humidity from your shower also helps plants like ferns and ivies thrive, making your bathroom an ideal place for them.
Plants have a calming effect on our minds, reducing stress and helping us to relax. This makes them perfect for the bathroom, a place where many of us begin and end our day. The addition of greenery can transform your bathroom into a peaceful oasis, providing a tranquil space for you to unwind at the end of a busy day. It’s small wonder that in our busy and stressful lives, indoor plants have become more popular than ever!
Stockist: 01530 510007 or laufen.co.uk/point-of-sales
About LAUFEN
LAUFEN is a premium brand under the ROCA umbrella and one of the world’s leading manufacturers of sanitaryware and bathroom furniture, with a global distribution network. For over 125 years, the LAUFEN brand has been using ceramic, the oldest malleable material known to man, to create innovative sanitary products in state-of-the-art manufacturing plants. What makes LAUFEN products unique is the combination of emotional Italian design and legendary Swiss precision, resulting in functional and aesthetically pleasing products. Additionally, LAUFEN is fully committed to preserving natural resources and environmentally friendly production.
The client envisioned various future uses for the apartment, be it for potential sale or lease. With this in mind, the team crafted a versatile and timeless interior design. They curated a selection of art pieces meticulously, aiming to infuse the space with both visual charm and individuality, ensuring its appeal in the real estate market.
Balancing an attractive design with the need for comfort in a diverse living environment presented a significant challenge. Designing a rental apartment project to suit various tenants’ needs demands careful attention to detail and foresight for future adaptability.
The core idea behind this design approach was to combine the simplicity of minimalism with the allure of vibrant elements seamlessly. The aim was to strike a delicate balance where clean lines, spaciousness, and neutral colours peacefully complemented bold and captivating decorative features.
The lively and understated interior features eye-catching Mad burgundy chairs and highlights a Poliform carpet with a deep blue gradient. Meghan floor lamps, designed by Nataly Bolshakova and strategically placed near the chest of drawers, create mesmerising patterns of light. Chic Poliform sofas are complemented by decorative pillows from Hermes, while indoor sculptures by Nazar Bilyk add to the ambiance, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
The Poliform kitchen features beige and glossy surfaces, complemented by grey Sitland bar stools. Above the Poliform dining table hangs a pendant lamp with a sleek design from Artemide. Adding to the interior’s charm is an impressive painting by Anatoly Krivolap.
The luxurious style of the Delavega light bed is elevated by the Contardi curved lamps. A Lora Piano terracotta blanket adds a striking accent beside the Poliform Sara mirror, while the soft carpet’s edging from Lora Piano brings cohesion to the space. The bedroom’s symmetry and volume are accentuated by a mirrored chest of drawers with distinct features and dark Poliform sideboards.
The bathroom presents a striking contrast with its black and white colour scheme, featuring distinctive marble-textured tiles sourced from Atlas Concorde. Modern lamps from SLV and fixtures from Paffoni further enhance the space.
For this space, Bolshakova Interiors has incorporated Poliform furniture in dark wood and leather. Poliform armchairs, upholstered in Lora Piano fabric, are positioned near the window. The Meghan table lamp, designed by Nataly Bolshakova, provides subtle lighting for the desk area. The office is designed with a minimalist ethos, removing unnecessary distractions to cultivate a focused environment for work and reading.
Location: Kyiv, Ukraine Total Area: 285.5 sq.m Team: Nataly Bolshakova, Anna Denisenko, Alyona Grigorenko, Julia Artyukh, Marina Senko
Basement spaces exude cosiness and charm, but subterranean living is not without risk, as this family in St John’s Wood sadly discovered when their home suffered a flood. Happily, they turned the disaster into an opportunity and enlisted the help of Charlie Smallbone from Ledbury Studio to give new life to their cooking, eating and living space.
For this project, Charlie created a new open-plan kitchen-living-media room, along with a utility and a master ensuite bathroom. Pale oak, illuminated quartzite and brass accents are just a few of the materials Charlie used to bring light into this basement space. Here, he elaborates on how the designs came together.
I designed the kitchen area to take advantage of the sun, which slants down through the windows in the morning. The family can sit at the breakfast bar and enjoy it while sipping a coffee. The working area of the kitchen is separated from the more formal dining area by a peninsula, the back of which forms the upholstered bench seating. This not only provides a comfortable solution for longer dinner parties, but also maximises the space available.
We selected a classic oak for the cupboards, which was sanded back to expose the grain and then coated with a pale pigmented wash. This treatment allows the natural beauty of the Ember – which is book matched across the furniture – to shine through while keeping the overall look of the cupboards light. To achieve a contemporary aesthetic, the base cabinets are handleless and the wall cupboards feature on-trend ribbed glass. Additionally, the wall cupboards have patinated brass handles that match the brass surrounds and kick plate on the base cupboards.
A notable feature is the sink, crafted from hardwearing Diamond quartzite. Not only does it have a stunning appearance, but it also catches the morning sunlight. We used the same material for the worktops, which we edged in patinated brass and underlit. This, together with LED lighting above and below the cupboards, adds real wow factor after nightfall.
The media room is an extension of the kitchen-dining space, so I continued the design of the furniture here to create a visual connection. I’ve used the same pale-washed oak to create fitted alcove drawers and cupboards. Additionally, there is a fireplace surround made from Diamond quartzite and patinated brass, along with a built-in TV. For the cupboard doors, we chose a sophisticated opaque bronze glass, which is illuminated by warm lighting to showcase the interior.
To maximise the use of the compact utility room, we installed oak cupboards that match the finish of the kitchen. These cupboards extend all the way to the ceiling and are illuminated at the top to create the illusion of height and provide practical light in this otherwise dark space. The furniture was custom designed to accommodate the washing machine, dryer, large fridge, and freezer. We also included tall pull-out cupboards for additional storage, ensuring that everything has its place. Additionally, we utilised the space under the window by installing a small sink for added convenience.
To maintain design continuity throughout the house, we carried key materials into the master ensuite bathroom. For the double vanity, we used pale-washed oak and Diamond quartzite, incorporating both open and drawer storage. The vanity also features patinated brass handles, adding a touch of elegance. A stunning point of difference, however, are the hand-painted mirrored panels in the cupboards placed either side of the mirror, which were designed to pick out the colours of the beautiful basins.
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.
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