At Yoko Kloeden Design, our passion lies in crafting spaces that blend the tranquility of nature with practical, modern living. One of our most popular projects, Culinary-Inspired Home, a Victorian terrace renovation in Brixton, London, is a perfect example of our approach.
The project was featured in June 2023 issue of House Beautiful magazine. You can read the full article from here.
Photography: Brent Darby
Styling: Kay Prestney
The Challenge: Balancing Multi-Functionality with Aesthetics
Carine Ottou and Jacob Eborn, both busy IT professionals with two young daughters, approached us with a unique challenge. They needed a home that could accommodate family life, home offices, and Carine’s thriving food business. Our task was to transform their three-bedroom Victorian terrace into a versatile, stylish sanctuary.
Embracing Open-Plan Living
Our design focused on creating an open-plan ground floor by removing walls and extending the kitchen. This resulted in a seamless living, dining, and kitchen area that connects indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting our commitment to infusing elements of nature into modern living. This design choice embodies the principles of Japanese interior design, bringing a sense of calm and harmony to the home.
Key Features of the Renovation
Flexible Kitchen Design: The heart of this home is undoubtedly the kitchen. A zinc-topped island on castors offers ultimate flexibility, allowing it to be moved outdoors for Carine’s cookery workshops. Custom-built bench seating with storage adds functionality without compromising style.
Natural Materials and Calming Palette: True to our signature style, we incorporated natural materials throughout. Exposed brickwork, Belgian lime-painted walls, and a handmade oak kitchen create a serene atmosphere that pays homage to Jacob’s Scandinavian roots and Carine’s Cameroonian heritage.
Loft Conversion: To maximise space, we converted the loft into a tranquil main bedroom and ensuite, demonstrating our ability to reimagine existing structures creatively.
Bringing the Outdoors In: A living wall in the garden serves as a stunning focal point, providing privacy and connecting the home to nature. Despite initial challenges with neighbors, this feature beautifully embodies our philosophy of blending indoor and outdoor elements.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any house renovation, we faced obstacles. Budget constraints and permit issues required careful navigation. However, our experience as a luxury home designer allowed us to find creative solutions without compromising on quality or design integrity.
The Result: A Harmonious, Multi-Functional Home
The completed project stands as a testament to Yoko Kloeden Design’s expertise in residential interior design.
Every space serves multiple purposes while maintaining a cohesive, calming aesthetic. From the versatile kitchen that hosts family meals and supper clubs to the serene loft bedroom, each area reflects our commitment to creating homes that are both beautiful and functional.
This Victorian terrace renovation in Brixton exemplifies how an interior designer in London can transform a traditional space into a modern, nature-inspired haven. By blending elements of Japanese interior design with practical considerations, we’ve created a home that truly brings people together.