As one of the most renowned interior designers in the United Kingdom, Katharine Pooley’s skills and expert eye are in high demand. One of her most recent projects was to bring the wow factor to a magnificent private residence in the heart of London. Ong Chin Huat takes a close look at what Katharine and her team achieved.
Katharine Pooley has once more put her skills to the test. This time, she showcased her talent on a newly completed 8,000-square-foot duplex home in one of London’s most exclusive residential buildings, complete with a private driveway, 24-hour concierge, gymnasium, swimming pool and spa.
The property was built in 1850 and sits in a white stucco-fronted row of terrace houses with extensive views over Hyde Park. The residential development is set within its own gated landscaped grounds, beautifully maintained and manicured to perfection.
For such a grand setting, it is only fitting that the apartment contained within is given the utmost design makeover and interiors, which is nothing short of spectacular. Enter Katharine Pooley, with her exquisite taste and her team of talented architects and interior designers who created an unparalleled home in terms of comfort and aesthetic design.
The project took more than three years to complete. The home underwent extensive and sensitive building works whereby two large duple apartments were merged into one enormous residence.
The lucky couple who owns this home will revel in the English detailing on show throughout the apartment which is a result of the high-quality British craftsmanship and contemporary design. Careful attention was paid to balancing British aesthetics with current design trends bearing in mind the views of Hyde Park visible from the numerous windows.
Upon entering the apartment, guests are confronted with a spacious entrance hall with a Greek-key motif balustrade edging s sweeping staircase. A landscape wallpaper panelling featuring the owners’ favourite trees was specially hand-painted by Fromental Design.
The smooth marble flooring reflects the hand-blown crystal chandelier in the shape of sycamore leaves inspired by London Plane, Oak, Lime, Sweet and Horse Chestnut trees in Hyde Park.
The double-height dining room has a blue colour palate with the mirrored panels on the walls enhancing the space. A floating crystal chandelier dominates this room, while the dining table features exquisite timber marquetry in different shades of blue. Wallpaper panelling depicting pink and white magnolias adds a certain je ne sais quoi to this beautiful space.
With double-volume ceilings, the formal living room is a study in sculptural shapes, soft textures and luxurious details. A pair of Corinthian columns divide this room, decorated with soothing pastel shades of ivory, dove grey and blush pink. Two marble fireplaces are anchored at either end of the living room, while bespoke bronze and resin coffee tables take centre stage in the middle of the room.
The graceful curving crystal-rod chandelier adds a final elegant touch. Another noteworthy item is the artwork made of hand-dyed paper by South Korean artist Ilhwa Kim which pick-up the different colours in the room and unites it all with its frame.
A more casual but nevertheless stylish space created by Katharine and her team is the family room. Bolder and brighter with colours like rich burnt orange and petrol blue cushions add accents of colour to the crisp white sofa. A casual dining nook with a modern geometric wallpaper gives this room a playful and dressed-down appeal.
The property’s master bedroom is a display of restrained luxury and glamour. A glass and timber staircase leads off to a mezzanine dressing room which looks down on the bedroom while hand-painted wallpaper panelling, sculptural leaf cluster wall lights and bespoke joinery all add up to a sleeping sanctuary befitting the master and mistress of this beautiful home.
For further information on Katharine Pooley and the interiors she had designed, please visit www.katharinepooley.com.
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