Emperors Gate, South Kensington, LondonContemporary Living Room, London
Jack Hobhouse Photography
What Houzz contributors are saying:
Dyer Grimes ArchitectureTempted to have shelving made to your design? Read reviews of carpenters and joiners in your area
Extensive renovations were necessary in the basement, which in turn affected the design of the other floors. ‘We more or less removed all of the structure in the basement and ground floor,’ Michael says. ‘We had to put in a steel frame to support the building, but it’s now stronger than it was before.’ However, to install all the necessary steelwork, the ceilings on the ground floor had to be lowered. The team reproduced the cornicing around the ceiling, but couldn’t continue it over the windows. Instead, they created a panelled wall between the windows to create a deliberate contrast with the period details. ‘The striking bookcase has travelled with the owners around the world, and we helped them modify it to fit this space,’ Michael explains.
Add a neat storage wallIf you have the lofty proportions, sash windows and original cornices to start with, you can put almost anything into a period room and get away with it. Storage can be a problem in older houses, though, due to uneven walls, so building a bespoke wall of shelving for books and media can tackle clutter. Update the Victorian heavy bookcase with slimline shelving incorporating different-sized sections. Further lighten the look by stopping short of the ceiling. Stick to a simple black and white palette for the rest of the room, so the space doesn’t feel too overwhelming.
What Houzz users are commenting on:
I like a lot here, but the bookcase feels very much like an afterthought in terms of style for what’s otherwise a highbrow room. Would prefer something a bit less “dorm room” and instead have something more substantial to fit the room and the furniture.
Photos in Emperors Gate, South Kensington, London
