‘The only major change we made was the removal of the staircase wall to open up the ground floor and allow the space to breathe.’ This simple intervention delivered major impact. Now, not only is there a sense of arrival, the internal spaces visually connect to each other better and lead the eye to a charming, light-filled vestibule dubbed the ‘morning room’ that overlooks the garden. The staircase leads to the lower ground floor where a handsomely furnished living room brimming with antique finds from markets in London and Paris, as well as customised contemporary pieces, overlooks the cosy lightwell. The overall vibe is calm and collected. ‘It was always our intention to create a serene atmosphere, but it all came quite naturally,’ explains the designer. ‘It genuinely feels like a sanctuary in the city, it’s hard to believe you’re in Zone 1 when you’re in the garden.
The walled garden (the rear walls is Grade I listed) was landscaped to be maintenance but still big on impact.
Helen Cathcart
In the light well, a pair of antique chairs and table finished in Maria Flora Chemin textile in Terracotta.
Helen Cathcart
The clients who are keen gardeners wanted their urban oasis to work for them year-year-round, particularly in the summer for relaxing with their grandchildren and hosting intimate gatherings. Jack collaborated with Allerton Landscapes on the design and Treetops Landscapes for delivery to create a bite-bite-sized version of a country garden. The planting scheme relied heavily on Evergreens with a smattering of perennials to add colour and seasonal interest. The vine was allowed to grow wild and vintage furniture added a playful edge. Inside, a nature-inspired palette, delivered through honed marble, earthy paint finishes across the walls and joinery, and a Versailles-style parquet floor, drew that visual connection to the outdoors.
The kitchen features a bespoke Calacatta Viola marble island as a focal point. It is surrounded by bespoke Austin Butler barstools upholstered in Bexleyheath Stripe from Morris & Co Fabric. The scalloped marble splashback, paired with shelves mounted on brass brackets and a sculptural conceal for the extractor, gives it a contemporary farmhouse vibe.
Helen Cathcart
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