Embracing my passion for interior design, I embarked on a transformative renovation of my 100-year-old home, preserving its original charm while integrating modern elements. My journey as a student at the Interior Design Institute coincided with acquiring the property, which featured layers of historical detail needing careful restoration.
I tackled the renovation hands-on, from painstakingly removing five layers of old wallpaper to restoring woodwork and a cast iron fireplace. Notable additions include a bespoke window seating area, a dressing room, and a striking feature wall of exposed brick in our new office, enhancing the work-from-home experience.
The project expanded with architectural plans for a single-story extension to introduce a spacious kitchen and dining area with French doors leading to a redesigned English country garden. This extension will also accommodate a versatile outdoor living space, a downstairs bathroom/utility room, and an office.
My approach to repurposing and upcycling, such as buying an old brass fireplace and rejuvenating salvaged furniture, reflects a commitment to sustainable and creative home improvement.
This passion project not only rejuvenates a historic property but also allows me to utilise my creative skills, developing practical and aesthetically pleasing solutions within a budget. My efforts have garnered attention, leading to an invitation to participate in a Channel 4 program about renovating UK properties, a testament to the project’s impact and inspiration, unfortunately the property sale was too slow.