In the heart of Notting Hill, a compact apartment undergoes a remarkable transformation, thanks to the visionary design of London studio De Rosee Sa. This project, a collaboration between interior designer Claire Sá and her husband Max de Rosée, is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and spatial innovation. The result? A sanctuary that seamlessly blends comfort, practicality, and a unique sense of occasion, all within the confines of a bijou two-bedroom space.
A Personal Haven
The apartment's origins are steeped in history, having once been two separate houses in the 19th century, later converted into a hotel and eventually redeveloped into flats in the 1970s. This rich past presented an opportunity to create a space that felt deeply personal and welcoming, a haven for its owner, a European fashion creative, after a day of travel or work. Claire's design philosophy emphasizes the importance of layers, using joinery, screens, and thresholds to create a sense of depth and discovery, making the space feel far more expansive than its compact footprint.
A Layered Interior
De Rosee Sa's design approach is evident throughout the apartment. The living room, for instance, showcases a harmonious blend of comfort and occasion. A bespoke sofa and Lozenge side table by De Rosee Sa, along with a glazed timber screen, divide the space while maintaining an open flow. Vintage lighting and Danish pieces add a touch of contrast, while a Nordic Knots rug grounds the room. The kitchen, previously disconnected, is now seamlessly integrated with the living area using a similar glazed timber screen, drawing light further into the apartment and creating a sense of continuity.
Intelligent Storage and Display
Storage and display are key considerations in this design. Recessed bookshelves, cleverly designed to double as artwork displays, maximize space while showcasing the owner's art collection. Brass rails at the top of the bookshelves further enhance the display potential. The kitchen cabinets, painted in Paper V by Paint & Paper Library, are paired with veined stone work surfaces, creating a subtle yet elegant contrast. The use of mirrored splashbacks in the kitchen and bedrooms extends the perceived space, a clever trick that adds to the apartment's overall sense of openness.
Bedroom Retreats
The bedroom areas are designed with a focus on tranquility and adaptability. The main bedroom features a curved joinery element that hides the entrance to the en suite bathroom, creating a seamless and spacious feel. Soft curves are accentuated throughout, from shelf edges to furniture, including De Rosee Sa's Half Moon bedside tables and Sequence armchair. The guest bedroom, which doubles as a home office, showcases a similar attention to detail, with a bespoke headboard upholstered in Yarn Collective's Odessa linen-cotton and a bolster cushion in Braquenié fabric.
A Play of Colors and Textures
Color and texture play a pivotal role in the apartment's design. The palette shifts from cozy browns and powdery blues to the soft greenish yellow of the kitchen cabinets, painted in Paint & Paper Library's Paper V. Each room is given a distinct mood, reflecting its intended use, much like choosing the right fabric for a garment. The emphasis is on balancing color, texture, and pattern, ensuring that each element complements the next. This attention to detail creates a cohesive and visually appealing interior.
Informal Living and Multipurpose Spaces
The apartment embraces a lifestyle of informal living. There is no formal dining room; instead, a custom banquette beneath the kitchen window provides a cozy spot for meals. A small pedestal table and vintage stools tuck neatly underneath, showcasing efficiency and adaptability. Similar multipurpose spaces are found in the main bedroom, where window seats, reading lights, and a daybed offer versatility. The guest bedroom, with its antique desk and bespoke cabinets with curved edges, creates a sense of space and natural light.
Connection to the Outdoors
De Rosee Sa's design philosophy extends beyond the confines of the apartment, aiming to connect the interior with the outdoors. In this case, the studio painted the window frames in a darker tone to recede them, allowing the views of the garden square and Notting Hill rooftops to become an integral part of the interior. This thoughtful approach creates a sense of consideration and connection, making the space feel more expansive and inviting.
In conclusion, this Notting Hill apartment is a testament to the transformative power of design. Through clever use of space, innovative joinery, and a thoughtful play of colors and textures, Claire Sá and Max de Rosée have created a sanctuary that is both functional and captivating. It is a space that not only meets the practical needs of its owner but also evokes a sense of occasion and warmth, making it a true haven in the bustling city.
