Rebecca James Studio’s aesthetic catalyst culminates in the courtyard
Cover Rebecca James Studio’s aesthetic catalyst culminates in the courtyard

Rebecca James Studio designed a West London home which balances as it contrasts

If the term “opposite attracts” were a home, it would manifest in Rebecca James Studio’s West London project, nicknamed Porchester, which drew inspiration from the clients’ very distinct characters: his contemporary clinical taste and her bold and quirky maximalism.

In the trusted hands of the London-based design firm, acclaimed for its bespoke approach that exudes a sense of timeless finesse and sophistication, the 5,200 square feet West London home for the family of four is transformed into an artful union that is warm, inviting and playfully beguiling.

The Studio began its design journey in the entrance hallway, noting that it “was a key part of the design scheme as it had generous proportions.” The overcast tone eases visiting guests in with Nobilis wallpaper, custom-made with a seamless fit to the staircase walls. 

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The Nobilis wallpaper welcomes guests
Above The Nobilis wallpaper welcomes guests
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The design journey began in the hallway
Above The design journey began in the hallway

The original Art Deco balustrades complement with a renewed dark grey coat, while the contrasting French bannister sculpture and chandelier by Glustin Luminaires, and ebonised bench give character upon first impression.

Beyond the entrance hall is the start of the myriad of colours to come as the Studio modernises the space with a vibrant colour palette that alternates between thematic, opulent wallpapers, and the owner’s contemporary art collection.

See also: Home tour: Inside the luxuriously appointed home of Scha Alyahya and Awal Ashaari

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'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 The home features the owner's contemporary art collection
Photo 2 of 3 A multitude of modernist statement pieces
Photo 3 of 3 The en suite snug

Housed within these rooms, each with its own particular hue, are interior features of doors and cornices that make subtle nods to the original Art Deco style of the property.

The Studio’s collaborative efforts with the finest craftsmen and artisans also embody the multi-disciplinary design experience by anchoring designer furniture pieces.

Don't miss: Rex Penang: Why this art deco cinema should not be demolished

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'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 Upholstered chairs to match the cabinetry and drawers
Photo 2 of 3 ‘60s-inspired light fixtures
Photo 3 of 3 The kitchen leads into the garden

In the living room and en suite snug, the Eleanor May Watson artworks serve as central points for the multitude of modernist statement pieces. Whereas in the corridor, the foliole-themed Harlequin wallpaper embraces the Nobilis cushioning, fabric blinds and ceramic ornaments upon the shelves.

Likewise, in the kitchen, while Audun Alvestad’s artwork spearheads the viridescent theme with upholstered chairs, cabinetry and drawers, and ‘60s-inspired light fixtures, the powder room juxtaposes with aesthetic matter, as the Cole and Son wallpaper lends weight to the Burlington basin and ‘50s-inspired Italian wall lights.

Read more: 8 luxurious kitchen islands to inspire your next home renovation

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The foliole-themed corridor
Above The foliole-themed corridor
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The powder room adds aesthetic matter
Above The powder room adds aesthetic matter

While the ground level provides a dramatic foundation for the home design, the mood transitions to the lighter side of the spectrum upstairs, with whimsical pastel wallpapers harmonised with soft palettes and textures.

The soft, empyrean blue with its different hues permeates the master bedroom. Here, the abstract figurative Megan Baker artwork placed bedside, contrasts against the ordered elegance of the master bedroom, while the soft-hued wallpapers in the master bathroom and master dressing room enclosing the bespoke furnishings are soothing in every detail.

This delicate trope expands to a playful green in the guest-cum-kid’s room, with the focal point being Gucci’s now distinctive Heron wallpaper. 

See also: Ask a designer: 7 ways to curate a bedroom that exudes quiet luxury

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'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 A playful green for the guest-cum-kid's room
Photo 2 of 3 The mood lightens upstairs
Photo 3 of 3 Soft, sky blue hues for the master rooms

Out in the courtyard is where the Studio’s aesthetic catalyst culminates. Much like how all roads lead to Rome, the design process that starts from the entrance hall, and disperses into the polarising across the rooms, meets again to encompass the space at the end of the garden.

“As the kitchen and a few other rooms led into the garden, it was important that the design of each of these rooms complemented the garden and vice versa,” explains James. “It was important to make sure there was a balance between the structure and plants, so that one element did not overpower the other.”

Don't miss: 7 hard-to-kill flowering plants to bring colour to your garden

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The courtyard encompasses the space
Above The courtyard encompasses the space
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A Moroccan inspired garden
Above A Moroccan inspired garden

What used to be a dark, cluttered and soulless area that lacks structure, is now a Moroccan inspired oasis framed with lush greenery, Sakura tiles, and vintage outdoor mirrors with protective lacquered frames, reflecting light into the revitalised garden, and making the space appear larger than it really was.

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Credits

Photography  

Richard Gooding

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