ONE ROOM RENOVATIONS
On a mission for more storage, one couple converted an attic into an airy retreat
PHOTOGRAPHY BRENT DARBY | PRODUCTION CAROLYN BAILEY
Lily Bell, who works in public relations, lives in a two-bedroom Edwardian top-floor flat in Wanstead, east London, with her partner Henry
MIRROR
An oversized design reflects light from the adjacent window
Why did you decide to do the work?
Henry had been living in the flat for five years before I joined him and had always planned to do a loft conversion. When I moved in during lockdown we were so tight on space, we ended up with my wardrobe on the landing for nine months.
Tell us where you got your inspiration…
Working in PR for interiors companies, I get to see so many products and homes. I love a timeless look with a boutique hotel feel and calming, warm tones. Henry is into vintage finds and likes a minimalist scheme, so plenty of storage was essential, as was creating flow between the modern extension and the period character of the rest of the flat. As I work from home, I also needed our bedroom to feel like a relaxed space that I could escape to.
How did you create your dream bedroom?
Once the build was under way, I pulled together moodboards and browsed shops, websites, magazines and Pinterest until the look was set in my mind. I’d wanted the rattan bed for a long time so that was our starting point. We decided on built-in wardrobes, then continued the uncluttered feel with bedside tables that tied in with the bed. I spotted the ottoman on Instagram and love how it adds a pop of colour. The room is long, so I zoned it into a sleep space and a living area with an oversized armchair. Then I upcycled a mid-century dresser to avoid the overall look becoming too modern and ‘matchy’.
SEATING
This well-lit corner makes a perfect reading nook with a statement armchair and stylish floor lamp
What about finishing touches?
Over the years I’ve collected vintage pieces and books, so we kept some shelves open to display them. After a long search for quality hardware at an affordable price, we came across Plank Hardware. Its handles really elevate t
