Little Gem

Small but beautifully formed, designer Christian Bense’s London apartment heralds a high-low approach that sparkles with original ideas and festive flourishes

- Mary Wadsworth

I’m excited about Christmas this year and intend to go full-on Nigella in the kitchen,’ says interior designer Christian Bense, talking in his refurbished fourth-floor apartment with views of the south London skyline. Last Christmas he and Matt Martin, who works in leisure retail, had just moved in with a few sticks of furniture so it was hardly cheerful. ‘A large portion of my family is German, so we’ll follow the tradition of having dinner with friends on Christmas Eve,’ he says. In terms of festive flourishes, it will be low-key but stylish with candles, berries and leaves, and cocktails at every opportunity. ‘There won’t be a tree, much as I love Christmas I don’t see how I’d cram one in,’ he laughs.

LIVING ROOM Furniture has to earn its living in this home. The two armchairs were purchased because they lend themselves to future reinventions with painted frames and upholstered seats. The art over the sofa is by Christian.

Armchairs, Graham and Green. Cushions in Moss Velvet by Rose Uniacke. Sofa in Royal Fern brushed cotton, Sofa.com. Shelving unit, Moebe. Copper chair, Blu Dot. Ottoman, Arlo & Jacob. Rug, Nordic Knots

DINING ROOM Louvre doors, which when opened take up half the size of a regular door, were installed to create more space for the table.