Simple Hampstead flat becomes vibrant home full of character

When interiors firm, Living in Space, was approached by the owner of this two-bedroom Hampstead flat, its team was asked to design a home full of character.

“The apartment was a rather bland box, and didn’t reflect the client, a flamboyant nightclub owner,” says company director Anita Kohn. “He wanted a home that was different and quirky, and a place that showed off his passion for music and art.”

The result certainly meets the brief. Every room exudes character and there’s a real sense of fun throughout, from the rope toilet roll holder to the bed made from an antique mirror frame.

The two bedrooms feature a host of opulent details, including a chandelier above the mirror frame bed, crushed velvet curtains with swags and tails and a bright red carpet.

A few structural changes were made, including adding a bathroom and toilet room to the second bedroom. The toilet room was given an exotic north African look, with tiles and fixtures imported from Morocco. A screen allowing natural light to flow through from the bathroom was fitted near the ceiling.

Meanwhile, the owner’s extensive art collection is showcased in the living room, where the colours, though still striking, are much earthier.

To balance out some of the busy décor, both the master bedroom and the living room feature one wall of simple white cupboard space.

“There’s a lot going on in this apartment, which is what we wanted, but the clean look of the cupboard walls add a bit of calmness,” explains Anita.

Anita, who set up Living in Space 14 years ago (under the name Ask La Maison Creative) says the project was a lot of fun.

“It’s great when you get a client that not only really appreciates good design, but allows you to experiment so much,” she adds.

“After the brief he pretty much let us get on with it, meaning we were able to go that extra mile.

“He was absolutely thrilled with the result and so were we.”

Living in Space, in Englands Lane, Belsize Park, provides a “concept to completion” service, which means it can oversee a client’s project from start to finish.

As well as interior designers, the team includes architects and soft furnishing specialists. The company also has a vast fabric collection that can be viewed at the showroom.

For more information visit living-inspace.co.uk or call 020 7722 3131.

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