Challenge
A higgledy 15th century family home in rural Essex with a series of rooms that lacked definition and flow.
Client Review:
Nine Lives and Philippa were wonderful at making my house feel more like a home. We did not live in all of our rooms downstairs as we were not sure how to use them. Philippa came and quickly worked out the best use of space to allow flow in our home. She is great at picking out colours and textures and finds material and wallpaper that I would never have been able to contemplate. Everyone that comes into our home always asks questions about the wallpapers and the fabrics we used. I am really thankful to Philippa for her hard work and attention to detail. We will go back for more advice in the future.
Design Solution
Nine Lives carefully considered the way our clients lived and gave each room a specific purpose.
Process
We created beautifully zoned spaces for cosying up in front of the TV, evening entertaining or relaxing with a coffee and a book. The main family room became a peaceful sitting room, while the garden room was transformed into a relaxed reception area for pre-dinner drinks. The austere, unused dining room became the snug and TV room. We focused on reviving much-loved family heirlooms, antiques and art - including reupholstering vintage occasional chairs, a footstool, sofa and brass bed. These pieces, together with carefully curated finds, became intriguing talking points in each space.
Project Information
Location: Dunmow, Essex
Client: Family of 4
Property: Private residence
Interior Design Services
- Space planning and furniture layouts
- Internal finishes, from paint to lighting to ironmongery
- Bespoke panelling for the snug, and clever boxing to disguise the TV in the formal sitting room
- Choosing and ordering all furniture, fittings and equipment
- Sourcing and ordering all furniture, soft furnishings, fittings and finishes
- Designing and commissioning soft furnishings, including window dressings, upholstery and cushions
- Installation and styling of the finished interior
