This beautifully put-together Edwardian house shows how to use colour in a way that’s easy to live with – its designer, Laura Stephens, reveals all
FEATURE JULIET BENNING
HOME TRUTHS
DESIGNER Laura Stephens of Laura Stephens Interior Design (laurastephens.co.uk)
HOUSE An Edwardian house in west London
WORK A new kitchen, redecoration and interior design
HOW DID YOU COME TO BE INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT?
The client, Sonja, contacted me as I had worked with her neighbour on the same street and she loved what I did for her so she got in touch.
Sonja was very bubbly and great fun to work with. We got on so well that I am currently revamping some further spaces in her house.
WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST PRIORITIES FOR THE HOMEOWNERS?
They wanted to create a soothing sanctuary and achieve a high-end finish that was also extremely practical. As this is a family home with children and several large dogs it was important to use durable cut velvets, leathers and resilient materials.
Sonja’s glamorous, bold and colourful style has been reflected in the art-deco influences, luxe finishes and warm metals. This is a home the clients see themselves in long-term and, together with the kitchen extension, they have gained more space with a loft conversion.
HOW INVOLVED WERE THE HOMEOWNERS?
They know what they like and are super decisive, which was great.
They showed me Pinterest boards and images they had collected with inspirational ideas yet at the same time they were open to my ideas.
Because the project was staggered, we were able to really focus on one space at a time. Sonja saved for key pieces like Julian Chichester cabinets, which had been on he
