A historic London home, originally designed by architect J.M. Brydon in 1874, has undergone a stunning renovation that blends its Arts and Crafts heritage with a contemporary 1920s-inspired aesthetic. The remodel, spearheaded by interior designer Suzy Hoodless and architect Giancarlo Alhadeff, emphasizes individuality and artisan craftsmanship while creating a functional family space for the owners and their two young boys.
The renovation reflects the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement, which champions the beauty of everyday objects and the importance of handcrafted work. The home now features vibrant colors, modernist shapes, and contemporary artwork, showcasing a harmonious blend of old and new. “The building had great bones, and we wanted to honor its heritage, albeit in a fresh way,” says Hoodless. The design team aimed to create bold, unique spaces that cater to the needs of a modern family.
Transforming Spaces for Modern Living
The remodel focused on reconfiguring the building’s layout to better suit family life. The basement was transformed into a spacious kitchen and dining area, complete with a relaxed family room and a more formal living room on the ground floor. “Listed properties always require some imaginative thinking,” notes Alhadeff. “Small yet meaningful tweaks, such as turning a spare bedroom into a multipurpose space, unlocked the layout for us.”
Key features of the kitchen include an island wrapped in brass and cabinetry made from Dyed Green Tulip 26 timber veneer. The choice of materials and colors reflects the owners’ desire for a design that feels both contemporary and true to the home’s roots. The family’s European sensibility is expressed through mid-century shapes and artwork, enhancing the home’s artistic atmosphere.
On the upper floors, the redesign included the creation of a dressing room and an en-suite bedroom, providing the parents with a self-contained area. The layout was carefully considered to ensure that the boys also had their own space, with the eaves transformed to accommodate their needs.
Color and Craftsmanship Create Unique Ambiance
The impact of the renovation is greatly influenced by the color palette employed throughout the home. Hoodless explains that the choices were “unusual and atypical,” featuring combinations like vivid blue and soft green alongside terracotta and muted reds. The limewashed walls add an element of softness and elegance, allowing natural light to enhance the space.
Clever design elements, such as contemporary tiles in the entrance hall that nod to traditional encaustic shapes, further illustrate the blend of styles. The kitchen units, painted in a distinctive tulip green, avoid the heaviness of stone, while the dressing room features abstract joinery that contributes to the overall artistic feel of the home.
“After all, the movement was about eschewing mass production in favor of simple, joyful artistry – principles we fully embraced,” Hoodless states. The finished product serves not only as a family home but also as a celebration of its rich artistic history.
As the renovation project reaches its two-year mark, the homeowners are delighted with the results. “You know you’ve done a good job when you are invited back for dinner,” reflects Alhadeff, recalling a recent gathering to celebrate the home’s new era. The focus was on creating a lively yet practical environment, ensuring that the spirit of the original home remains intact while providing modern comfort.
