Transforming a 1930s Home with Modern Elegance

We recently completed a beautiful renovation of a 1930s home in Richmond, bringing our signature blend of modern elegance and timeless Japanese design principles to this South-West London property.

This project, Architecturally Revived Haven allowed us to create a space that is both functional and aesthetically refined, while honoring the unique character of the house.

The hallway of the project was featured in Room Tour of Houzz. You can read the full article from here.

Photography: Brent Darby

Styling: Kay Prestney

The Challenge: Revitalising a Dark Hallway

One of the main challenges we faced was the dark, heavy hallway—something common in older homes. We knew the importance of making this entrance inviting and uplifting, so our first task was to remove the dated 1970s faux-Tudor wall panelling and tired carpets. This opened up the space and gave us a fresh foundation to build upon.

  • Colour as a Design Tool: To enhance the hallway’s sense of openness, we painted both the curved walls and ceilings the same calming hue, using lime-based paint for its soft, chalky texture. This created a seamless flow, with subtle variations in light and shadow that added depth and character.

 

  • Flooring that Flows: We selected engineered oak flooring laid in a herringbone pattern, a classic yet contemporary choice that leads the eye through the space. The warmth and texture of the oak softened the entrance, making it feel more connected to the rest of the home.
  • Thoughtful Lighting Choices: Lighting plays a crucial role in any design, and here we replaced the old downlights with a statement lantern and matching wall lights. These fixtures not only brought a sense of ambiance but also elevated the overall design, making the space feel elegant yet functional.

 

  • Balancing Texture and Functionality: To introduce more texture, we added a stained mango wood console topped with marble—beautiful yet practical, embodying our philosophy that design should seamlessly combine aesthetics with functionality.

Modern Updates with Respect for History

As we continued through the home, we renovated the staircase by replacing the balustrades with sleek, modern alternatives. The internal doors were also upgraded to fire doors, each with a curved detail to maintain visual cohesion throughout the house.

In the powder room, we struck a balance between old and new, keeping the original single-glazed leaded window to preserve the home’s historical charm. We paired it with soft rose-colored walls and hand-glazed Moroccan zellige tiles, adding a modern yet tactile element to the small space.

A Home Ready for New Beginnings

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we completed the project just in time for the family to celebrate Christmas in their newly transformed home. The result is a space that beautifully blends modern living with traditional elements, creating a warm and welcoming environment that the family can enjoy for years to come.

 

This Richmond renovation reflects our commitment to thoughtful design that speaks to the individual lifestyle and needs of each client. For us, it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that feel deeply personal, where every detail contributes to a harmonious and balanced home.

The Result: A Harmonious, Multi-Functional Home

The completed project stands as a testament to Yoko Kloeden Design’s expertise in residential interior design.

Every space serves multiple purposes while maintaining a cohesive, calming aesthetic. From the versatile kitchen that hosts family meals and supper clubs to the serene loft bedroom, each area reflects our commitment to creating homes that are both beautiful and functional.

This Victorian terrace renovation in Brixton exemplifies how an interior designer in London can transform a traditional space into a modern, nature-inspired haven. By blending elements of Japanese interior design with practical considerations, we’ve created a home that truly brings people together.

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