BELGRAVIA TOWNHOUSE
A 5-storey Grade II listed home in the heart of Belgravia. The builder, who had originally refurbished the house 35 years prior, asked SVM to assist with the interior design arranged over 5 floors. SVM had worked with the builder on other projects, and communication is good along with an understanding of the level of detail and quality that is expected from both parties. This kind of builder and designer collaboration is essential for a successful refurbishment. The project originally only allowed for two of the floors to be updated, but, this was extended to include all 5 covering around 10,000 sq ft in total.
BRIEF: The client loves colour, texture, and pattern but wanted to retain the original historic details and feel of the interior, with some modern touches of new furniture and lighting. The brassware for the bathrooms was manufactured by a UK company, Rutland, in finishes that varied between bathrooms in keeping with the colours and style of each room. We specified and supplied all new ironmongery and hardware throughout in an antique brass finish.
The client had a preference for SVM to specify products that met some level of sustainability; this is getting easier to do with manufacturers understanding there is a greater demand from homeowners for products and materials that are kinder to the planet. As the owner's main residence was outside the UK it was necessary to create photo-realistic renders for their approval.
PROCESS: One of the floor layouts was re-arranged to accommodate 2 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, and a dressing room. Planning consent was necessary prior to this work commencing as some walls were required to be moved. Extensive new joinery for wardrobes, cabinetry within bathrooms, and TV and media cupboards were designed throughout. A new hot water and plumbing system was installed for efficiency.
The home features jewel colours on every floor with green being the link that threads the floors together and maintains visual continuity. The beautifully detailed original staircase benefits from a bespoke Roger Oates stair runner.
Electric window blinds were installed in every window providing privacy and blackout functions.
The flooring was specified from Trunk flooring, sourced from FSC timber and hand-finished in Ireland. A Chevron pattern was specified for the ground floor into the juice bar area. A wide plank on all other floors.
Mainly Farrow and Ball paint, was used to cover walls, and all woodwork except for the lounge where Paint & Paper Library was specified. Fromental hand-made wall coverings were used to line the wardrobe door and walls in two of the bedrooms.
RESULTS: The result is a colourful, luxurious, eclectic and somewhat brave home with it's use of colour and pattern. Full of character and one that, without question, reflects the personality of the homeowner.
