This extensive renovation of a compact two bedroom 538sqft flat in Crystal Palace was completed in July 2025. Having been empty for over 10 years, the apartment was in a dilapidated condition and was not fit for living. The brief was to create a playful yet elegant design which would emanate the client’s eclectic style and showcase her abundant plant family. It was important to re-use as much of the original materials as possible and create a calm atmosphere to live and work.

The colour palette includes a white base with splashes of bold colours in certain areas; the kitchen features Farrow & Ball paint in Arsenic, the main bedroom above the picture rail in Whirlybird and the second bedroom above the picture rail in Lick Terracotta. The bathroom entertains complementing green and pink tiles.

The project was restricted by budget constraints and required sensitive design as a listed building in a conservation area, however these challenges were easily overcome with research into less-expensive alternatives, re-use of materials and using local crafts people to carry out specific aspects of the build.

The basebuild inherently benefits from an enormous amount of natural light, with many of the walls occupied by large windows and french doors looking out over extensive views. Unfortunately all windows and frames had succumbed to weathering over time, allowing the opportunity for bespoke double glazed timber like-for-like replacements to be carefully crafted and installed by a local carpenter. The old windows were stripped, repaired and treated before being repurposed as glazed doors for a new book case in the living room and kitchen cabinets above the cooker.

Although the windows are a featured asset, they also posed an issue with furniture and radiators clashing; therefore the decision was made to install hydro underfloor heating throughout. This called for the floor joists to be levelled and the original floorboards to be repurposed. As the building is multiple-occupancy with neighbours below and above, this was also a prime opportunity to add layers of insulation for heat and sound absorption. Wool carpet was laid in the bedrooms with gorgeous smoked oak parquet flooring in all other areas.

With a small footprint, adjustments were made in order to improve circulation and create a more open feel whilst remaining functional. The wall between kitchen and living room was removed to unify the spaces and create a cohesive yet contrasting experience, the original doorway between the kitchen and hallway was blocked off and the wall between the main bedroom and kitchen was moved as it originally ran half-way into the window. Transom windows were installed above doorways to allow more light to enter the hallway and bathroom.

The entire property was re-wired and re-plastered. Holes in the ceiling and walls from historical leaks and other mishaps were made good. Skirtings, picture rails and window sills were replaced.

The kitchen features beautiful recycled plastic terrazzo worktops by Durat with an extra-deep area for pastry making, a 900mm range cooker, full-height fridge freezer, dishwasher and washing machine. Although small, it was important for the client not to compromise on amenities in any part of the build.

One of the main challenges with this property was storage; with a smaller footprint and 3m high ceilings, the solution was to go upwards. The kitchen features extra-high cabinets to the ceiling, using every inch of possible space. A bookcase was crafted using the old windows and a high cabinet in the bathroom was also made in plywood. Cabinets in the second bedroom were built, providing enough floor-to-ceiling storage for all other items. All joinery was custom-made by a highly experienced and talented local joiner.

Finally, the flat was dressed and styled to specification whilst the client moved in their possessions. The final look presents a stunning yet practical living space with ample storage and exquisite details.