There are times when a project demands a completely new narrative of design. Such a challenge arose with a request from a discerning client who asked the practice to remodel a non-descript one bedroom apartment within an Edwardian mansion block in Chelsea. Given the lack of any original features or detailing, we developed a fresh aesthetic, which draws inspiration from the work Adolf Loos and Eileen Gray, while focussing upon fine, characterful materials and finishes.

The existing flat was beset with problems, including wasted spaces and dead ends created by corridors and partitions. This led to a new floor plan with an enfilade of inter-connected rooms, avoiding any need for corridors or wasted space devoted solely to circulation.

A palette of fine, expressive materials helps to tie these spaces together, while pared back detailing allows the focus to remain upon the character and quality of the materials. There are architraves in mahogany veneer around open doorways, herringbone floors in African hardwood, wall panelling in key areas and silk curtains throughout, creating a sense of quiet and timeless luxury.