A happy place

Taking on a Victorian home not touched in nearly four decades was a challenge one family relished – and the end result is a thoroughly charming mix of old and new

- WORDS EMMA J PAGE STYLING ANNA SHERIDAN PHOTOGRAPHY KENSINGTON LEVERNE

A leap of faith’ is how Charly and Jonny describe their approach to the renovation of this London home, where they live with their two young children. It underwent a complete reappraisal after remaining untouched for nearly four decades. Both were keen to avoid obvious design motifs, such as a ubiquitous ground-floor kitchen extension, in favour of something more adventurous. ‘We live fairly casually,’ says Charly, ‘but we also enjoy a balance of beauty and utility. We wanted that to be reflected in the design of this house.’

With the help of Smith Brooke Architects and interior designer Emma Ainscough, the couple were able to create a space that feels both deeply personal as well as practical. Key was the idea that every space should be fully used and nothing saved for best. ‘We wanted to retain a sense of playfulness, creating spaces that were visually cohesive, while exploring possibilities with pattern and colour,’ says Charly.

Though the couple kept or reinstated many period elements, including cornicing, sash windows and high ceilings, they also made some bold design choices. At the rear, a conservatory had to go. ‘It was romantic but impractical, being cold in winter and boiling in summer,’ Charly says. ‘And it also meant that family living was largely constrained to the basement, which we felt was a shame, given the beauty of the upper ground floor.’