This article delves into the design of a compact Notting Hill apartment, showcasing how interior design can transform a small space into a welcoming and layered haven. The project, led by London studio De Rosee Sa, was commissioned by a European fashion creative who fell in love with the area's energy and collecting opportunities. The brief was to create a layered interior that combined comfort with the 'sense of occasion of a boutique hotel'.
One of the key challenges was the apartment's dated condition, having been originally built as two separate houses in the 19th century, later converted into a hotel, and then redeveloped as flats in the 1970s. With no notable features to preserve, the studio had the opportunity to introduce character and a sense of discovery. The design philosophy revolved around spatial flow, with clever use of joinery, screens, and thresholds to create a sense of depth and expand the perceived space.
The living room, for instance, features a glazed timber screen that draws light further into the apartment and creates a sense of length. Recessed bookshelves double as display units for artworks, and sliding pocket doors keep the floors clear for easy movement. The kitchen and living room are united by this screen, and mirrored splashbacks in the kitchen create a sense of length. The ceiling is treated as another design surface, clad in tongue-and-groove panelling for extra warmth and character.
The apartment is organized into two zones: living spaces on one side and private rooms on the other. The main bedroom features an en suite that disappears behind a run of wardrobes, creating a composed space. Soft curves accentuate the tranquil mood, whether on shelf edges or on furniture from De Rosee Sa's collection. The guest bedroom doubles as a home office, with an antique desk positioned to take advantage of natural light and bespoke cabinets with curved edges.
Colour choices reflect the owner's affinity with fashion, with a subtle interplay of shades shifting from cosy browns and powdery blues to the soft greenish yellow of the kitchen cabinets. Rooms were given different moods according to their intended use, with a balance of colour, texture, and pattern. The emphasis was on complementing each element with the next.
The design also incorporates clever storage solutions, such as the custom banquette beneath the kitchen window, which reveals the owner's preference for informal living. Window seats in the main bedroom, a multipurpose daybed in the second bedroom, and sliding pocket doors throughout the apartment contribute to the efficient use of space. The apartment's connection with the outdoors is enhanced by painting the window frames in a darker tone, allowing the views of the garden square and the Notting Hill rooftops to become a stronger part of the interior.
In conclusion, this Notting Hill apartment showcases how interior design can transform a small space into a welcoming and layered haven. The project demonstrates the importance of spatial flow, clever joinery, and a thoughtful use of colour and texture to create a space that feels both comfortable and 'sense of occasion of a boutique hotel'. The design philosophy, led by De Rosee Sa, has resulted in a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, capturing the owner's love for the area and her passion for collecting.
