A historic London home originally built in 1874 has undergone a significant transformation, blending its Arts and Crafts heritage with a fresh, modern aesthetic inspired by the 1920s. The renovation, led by interior designer Suzy Hoodless and architect Giancarlo Alhadeff, emphasizes individuality and craftsmanship while catering to the needs of a contemporary family.
The residence retains several features reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts movement, including stained-glass windows and a terracotta plaque adorned with sunflowers. Hoodless, who is known for her vibrant use of textiles and color, expressed her commitment to honoring the home’s original character. “The building had great bones, and we wanted to honor its heritage, albeit in a fresh way,” she stated. The design team focused on creating bold, functional spaces that reflect the owners’ passion for contemporary design.
Modern Design Meets Historical Charm
The renovation involved a thoughtful reconfiguration of the interior layout to accommodate a family with two young boys. The basement was transformed into a kitchen and dining area, enhancing the home’s functionality. A new family room and a formal living space were established on the ground floor. The choice of materials and colors showcases a blend of modern and traditional elements, such as the kitchen island wrapped in brass and units in Dyed Green Tulip 26 timber veneer.
Upstairs, a guest room was repurposed into a dressing room, leading to an en-suite bedroom and a study. This redesign aimed to provide the parents with a self-contained floor, while the boys’ space was also reimagined, enhancing the family’s living experience. Alhadeff emphasized the necessity of imaginative solutions in listed properties, stating, “Small yet meaningful tweaks…unlocked the layout for us.”
Color played a pivotal role in the renovation, with Hoodless selecting an unusual palette that includes combinations of vivid blue, soft green, and terracotta. “We chose an unusual palette that I hadn’t majored in before,” she shared. The limewashed walls introduce elegance and softness, enhancing the natural light that floods the space.
A Harmonious Blend of Old and New
The entrance hall features contemporary tiles that reference traditional encaustic designs, merging modern Italian sensibility with classic charm. The owners’ desire for a home that feels both lively and practical was met through the use of bold colors and modern designs alongside existing pieces from the owners’ collection. Hoodless integrated furniture styles from designers like B&B Italia and Gio Ponti with contemporary classics from Pinch and Hay.
“It’s the juxtaposition that feels thrilling,” said Hoodless, highlighting the home’s eclectic aesthetic. The dining room’s alcoves showcase the owners’ existing cabinets, which provide a sleek contrast to the Victorian fireplace, bridging the gap between past and present.
After two years of meticulous work, the renovation has been celebrated as a successful blend of artistry and functionality. “You know you’ve done a good job when you are invited back for dinner,” smiled Alhadeff, recalling a gathering that marked the home’s new chapter. The owners desired a space that was vivacious yet practical, and the renovation team has certainly achieved that goal.
