Although the kitchen was installed during an earlier renovation, the space required refinement. One way that Mhairi accomplished this was by using paint in clever ways. The cabinetry was refreshed by repainting it in Farrow & Ball’s ‘London Clay,’ a deep, earthy tone that introduces warmth and sophistication. This, along with a previously integrated wooden larder cupboard being reimagined through specialist paintwork to resemble a French housekeeper’s cupboard, helps to give the impression of a collected, evolved interior rather than a newly fitted scheme. Architectural detailing also played a key role in elevating the room. The addition of cornicing, along with proper architraves and window reveals, restored a sense of period authenticity appropriate for the house’s Victorian heritage.
Although the sitting room and kitchen have their own personality, they are subtly tied together using Edward Bulmer‘s ‘Milk White’ on the walls and a collection of monochromatic artwork. These elements, along with a black and white rug from Peter Page, help to make the colourful elements in the scheme sing. ‘The rug is an especially striking feature once the colourful furniture is positioned on top,’ Mhairi observes. Golden yellow linen upholstery and accents of purple and peach make for a scheme that feels eclectic, avoiding overly coordinated schemes in favour of a more organic, evolved feel.
A black-and-white Berber-style rug from Peter Page injects personality and visual rhythm into the living room.
The final flourishes were a few eclectic accessories. Amongst them, a convex mirror that adds depth and light without becoming visually intrusive and a bespoke bookcase painted and decorated with hand-rendered Berber motifs. The bookcase serves as both storage, a drinks cabinet and a bridge between the kitchen and living areas. The result is a space that balances grandeur with comfort, making it perfectly suited to modern family life and entertaining.