Our Nature-Inspired Sanctuary

In my own Victorian home in London, we’ve crafted a living space that reflects the harmony between East and West, blending Japanese design principles with the character of British architecture. It’s a true reflection of our heritage and global experiences, merging the charm of a historical home with modern functionality and serenity.

The project was featured in Apartment Therapy in April 2019. You can read the full article from here.

Photography: Kotomi

Japanese Design Meets Victorian Architecture

Blending Cultures in a London Home

When we first approached the design of this house, we embraced its Victorian origins while weaving in natural materials and thoughtful details from our Japanese heritage. The weathered yellow bricks and lush ivy climbing the exterior are juxtaposed with an interior rich in textures, from clay and marble to brass, steel, oak, and walnut. Layering these materials creates a tactile and visually engaging experience – one that invites you to touch, feel, and appreciate every element.

A Nature-Inspired Colour Palette

Our approach to colour in this home is grounded in nature, a hallmark of Japanese design. Soft, calming hues drawn from the garden outside flow through the interiors, creating a peaceful retreat in the heart of urban London. We believe that connecting a home’s colour palette to the natural world helps bring a sense of tranquility and balance to the space.

Eclectic and Tactile: A Design Philosophy Rooted in Emotion

As we designed this home, our focus was on creating spaces that evoke specific feelings, not just aesthetics. Each room is intended to spark a sense of calm, comfort, and connection. Our dining area, for example, opens seamlessly to the garden, framing an apple tree that becomes part of the daily backdrop—an ever-present reminder of the beauty just beyond the walls. Watching robins nest and taking in the garden’s quiet moments is central to how we’ve integrated nature into our home.

Balancing Budget and Quality: Designing with Intention

Strategic Splurges for Maximum Impact

In any project, we know that balancing budget and design is essential. One of our key splurges was the installation of Crittall-style steel doors. These not only enhance the connection to the garden but also create a striking architectural feature that allows light to flood into the space. We always encourage our clients to invest wisely in high-impact elements that make a real difference in both function and style.

Practical Solutions with Designer Flair

Even in a designer’s home, practicality is key. We embraced some clever DIY solutions to enhance functionality without sacrificing design. For instance, we added custom shoe storage under the narrow hallway staircase, proving that style and storage can coexist in the most beautiful way.

Our Design Philosophy: Spaces That Feel, Not Just Look

Creating Emotional Experiences Through Design

At the core of our work is the belief that design is about more than just how a space looks – it’s about how it makes you feel. We always start with the desired emotional experience and build the design around it. In our own home, we’ve curated spaces that are not only beautiful but also evoke a deep sense of peace and belonging.

Timeless Design with Quality Materials

Our home features carefully chosen materials and furnishings that stand the test of time. From Farrow & Ball paints to Ligne Roset furniture and vintage antiques, each piece reflects our dedication to creating spaces that are durable and timeless, where quality is always a priority.

Lessons We’ve Learned: The Power of Cultural Fusion

Embracing Diversity in Design

Designing our London home has taught us the importance of embracing cultural fusion. By blending the simplicity and mindfulness of Japanese design with the history and elegance of Victorian architecture, we’ve created a home that feels personal yet globally resonant.

Bringing Nature into Urban Living

One of the key lessons from our home is how impactful nature can be, even in the heart of a bustling city. By emphasising greenery, natural materials, and an indoor-outdoor connection, we’ve created a space that feels grounded and peaceful—values central to Japanese design.

Japanese-Inspired Design for Modern London Living

Our home is a reflection of our ethos as designers: a place that balances beauty with function, where cultural heritage meets modern living. It’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design to transform not just spaces, but the way we live in them. For those seeking inspiration or looking to work with us, our approach offers a blueprint for creating homes that are not only visually stunning but also deeply personal and emotionally resonant.

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