CHALLENGING A FLAT TO BE A HOUSE. A PLACE TO FEEL INSPIRED IN.
EAST DULWICH TERRACE
This property provided an opportunity to fully reimagine the space making it work for how Bella wanted to live as a couple with her husband, but latterly as a family when her first child was born.
The place from which she would work, it needed energy to boost creativity and motivation. But also allow for unwinding and hosting cosy evening soirées.
The front two receptions were opened up to enjoy natural light across both rooms. But with the option to separate them via a pair of salvaged Victorian double doors so that work at a desk area in the Dining Room could be divided from downtime on soft seating in the Living Room.
we must challenge space to work harder. the NEW layout supportS how WE WANT TO FEEL WHEN WE’RE AT HOME.
Joinery was designed to feel like a seamless addition. A triple wardrobe in a bedroom allows for a forth section to be accessed from the hallway as a cloakroom. A double unit in the bathroom enabled the relocation of white goods from the kitchen so that a corner bench seat could be added for breakfasts and hosting friends with wine while preparing the dinner. Rethinking the staircase and the thoroughfare into the basement allowed for a large cupboard and an ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower.
In her practice as a designer Bella strongly avoids sourcing new furniture and material if existing pieces can be used, preferring to reuse and cherish the wonderful things already on the planet before demanding the manufacture of new. This works for budgets, too. The flat the free-standing furniture, tables, mirrors, rugs and most of the artwork is antique. Doors and floorboards were salvaged from a local yard. All were picked up affordably and because they are cherished they will be taken with Bella and used again in future homes.
