Owl Design approached the task with a clear directive: no pattern, no stripes. The Victorian villa in Hampton Court, a project led by co-founders Sophie van Winden and Simone Gordon, required a balance between the home’s historic character and the clients’ modern tastes. The couple, known for their art collection, had already seen the designers’ work in print and wanted a space that felt both curated and lived-in. Their vision was simple: clean, gallery-like rooms with sculptural elements, avoiding anything too predictable.
The house, under renovation by architects ADE, had existing features that shaped the design. Large arches at the front and back of the property were retained, echoing nearby buildings and the home’s original architecture. The layout, spanning three levels, included an open-plan ground floor with a kitchen, living room, and snug. A traditional front reception room remained untouched, honoring its heritage. Below, the basement’s high ceilings became a canvas for a cinema, library, bar, and bedroom. The first floor held more bedrooms, culminating in a luxurious main suite.
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The clients’ preferences were straightforward. They disliked pattern, especially stripes, and favored bold geometry and color. Their art collection, provided as a PDF, guided the palette: mint green, claret, and electric blue. These hues were woven into the design, creating a cohesive yet dynamic atmosphere. The 1980s and Memphis movement’s playful aesthetics also influenced the project, resonating with the designers’ own generational experiences.
Almost all furnishings were custom-designed or sourced anew. The only items retained from the couple’s previous home were the dining table and chairs, which “didn’t work” in the new space, Sophie van Winden noted. Joinery and bespoke pieces evolved into sculptural forms, blending with white walls and art. A blue kitchen island became a focal point, its color threading through the house in varying tones—from the soft cornflower bath to electric archways.
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Unexpected color pairings, like pistachio and peach, added energy to the interiors. The home’s vibe matched the couple’s lifestyle: lively, family-oriented, and unafraid of mixing art with everyday life. “No stupidly expensive ceramics,” Simone Gordon said. Instead, shelves held toys and art, creating a space that felt both curated and welcoming. The design avoided pretension, prioritizing comfort alongside visual impact.
The house’s layout supports diverse moods. Quiet zones for reading or work coexist with open areas for socializing. The couple, who enjoy hosting friends and watching rugby, found a balance between functionality and aesthetics. “It’s uplifting,” Simone said. “You can feel homely here.” The project’s success lay in its ability to honor the home’s past while adopting the clients’ desire for a bold, modern identity.
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Owl Design’s work here demonstrates how historical elements can coexist with contemporary design. By avoiding predictable choices—stripes, excessive pattern—the team created a space that feels both timeless and strikingly current. The result is a home that reflects its owners’ personalities: lively, intentional, and unafraid to stand out.
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