East meets West in a Chelsea Penthouse
The much-loved teak dining furniture and coffee table already owned by our clients set the basic theme for this interior. We took the East meets West inspiration and built in an american black walnut and coloured glass storage unit to disguise and integrate the top of the lift shaft that intrudes into the space. The fireplace was replaced with a minimal modern surround with flame-effect gas fire and the whole was topped off with a large wenge mirror custom-made to fit perfectly in its position. Wenge stained oak radiator covers were installed throughout the flat.
The real manipulation of the space came with the replacement of the staircase. The stairs give access from the lower floor entrance to the large open plan living room and kitchen. They then curve up again to reach the roof terrace. The original stairs had been solid tread and denied the lower floor the gift of light from upstairs. The replacement staircase was designed using dark stained oak wood and sleek chrome rods. Crucially the treads are open allowing the light to spill down.
The pictures above show the full glory of the new staircase and illustrate how the open treads and delicate chrome railings reduce the physical presence of this large piece of engineering.
The entrance hallway is no longer a dungeon. The light coming down the stairwell is bounced around by a trio of imposing mirrors hung above simple matching consoles that face the front door. An entrance vestibule that crowded the space has been removed and unity is maintained by the replacement of all internal doors in dark polished wood.
The lower floor is home to the main bedroom with ensuite bathroom, spare bedroom with ensuite and study. The main bedroom is a focus of luxury with pure silk wallcovering and massive teak bed. The same silk in red is used to create an accent in the bathroom. Oriental prints reflect the East meets West design ideal.
Custom made wenge storage units, limestone cladding and designer lighting conspire to complete the luxurious ambience. The rectangular limestone basin lends a weight and solidity to the design.
This refurbishment involved major building works which were carried out under strict licensing conditions laid down by the corporate freeholders. All this on the fourth floor and with the minimum of disruption to other tenants of the building.
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