By Emma Sims-Hilditch
Located in the beautiful Cotswolds, our studio is surrounded by nature’s bounty. With lush green fields, serene woodlands, and vibrant wild flower meadows, inspiration is never far away. In our garden, we cultivate vegetables and enjoy the fruits of our bees’ labor, with their delicious honey. This idyllic setting serves as a constant muse for our urban and rural projects, leading us to embrace natural materials and design with sustainability at the forefront of our minds.
Our expertise lies in working with listed buildings, and the living room of this magnificent four-bedroom townhouse in Chelsea, currently on the market for £9.25mn, provides the perfect canvas to showcase our nature-inspired design approach. The room features exquisite high ceilings, stunning glazing, and breathtaking views of a cricket field and tennis court, creating a serene oasis in the heart of London. With its well-preserved fireplace and cornice in need of careful restoration and redecoration, this space holds immense potential.
Lay the foundations
To add texture and visual interest to the room, we recommend using natural timber floors with a characterful, weathered finish. For instance, a herringbone or Hungarian point pattern, such as the one offered by Havwoods, can bring an element of surprise. Its natural grain and patina will establish an elegant and inviting atmosphere.
Tread softly
To anchor the furniture and define the space, layering rugs on the timber floor is highly recommended. We often turn to Tim Page Carpets for their textured rugs. The Jute Ali rug is particularly appealing, as it offers a wonderful natural feel while maintaining a soft and tactile sensation underfoot. This timeless design can be custom made up to 6 meters in size.
Frame the view
When it comes to curtains and soft furnishings, texture is key. The elegant windows in this room would beautifully complement lined and interlined curtains made from the Tree of Life fabric, an exquisite 17th-century English design recreated by Chelsea Textiles. Its flowing natural motifs add a subtle sense of drama while keeping harmony with the outdoor views.
For seating, we suggest a classic pair of sofas from George Smith, covered in relaxed linen and adorned with Cape and Vienna textured velvet scatter cushions from de Le Cuona. The plush velvet pile creates a striking contrast against the woven jute rug.
Cover the walls with natural fibres
To add texture to the reception room’s walls, we recommend considering the elegant Altfield grasscloth wallpaper in a warm neutral color. This wallpaper harmonizes perfectly with the existing framed sections of the room and complements the curtains’ basecloth. Its subtly reflective surface and rich texture exude understated elegance. It’s important to hire a professional decorator experienced in handling this delicate product for proper installation.
Make a statement from above
Light fittings provide an excellent opportunity to introduce natural motifs into an otherwise understated interior. The Golden Oak Chandelier by Cox London takes inspiration from the ancient oak trees found in the parks of North London, where the owners enjoy leisurely walks with their dogs. This chandelier adds texture to the room and, when combined with soft gathered shades, fills the space with a gentle, diffused light.
Photography: Claire Menary; Alex Winship Photography Ltd / Strutt & Parker
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