Reviving Charm in Maida Vale

Reviving Charm in Maida Vale:

A Complete Renovation Story

Nestled in the heart of Maida Vale, this renovation project was a chance to reimagine a classic but dated London home as a contemporary dwelling. Led by the team here at Muchmore Design, this transformation blended timeless elegance with modern functionality, creating a space that felt both refined and effortlessly liveable. Every detail, from the flow of natural light to the choice of materials, was carefully considered to honour the property’s character, while elevating it to complement our client’s modern life and preferred styles. 

The Brief

We were introduced to our client who needed help with the second phase of her renovation project. The duplex apartment had recently undergone some refurbishment works but was still in need of substantial updates in the master bedroom, kitchen and living room. This included space planning, FF&E selection, bespoke joinery, floor refurbishment, new radiators, window treatments and lighting.

The brief also required us to introduce accredited suppliers and contractors that could deliver the interior fit-out. We took the opportunity to collaborate with one of our longest and most trusted partners, PAD Kitchens. Able to deliver on essential refurbishment works alongside kitchens, we appointed the PAD team to lead on the wider refurbishment as well as supply and install the kitchen. 

A Kitchen of Texture and Refinement

The heart of the renovation is the open plan kitchen that feels clean, contemporary and richly tactile. Although open plan, our client tasked us with distinguishing the kitchen from the living area. The kitchen space is anchored by a central island that doubles as both a workspace and a social hub, creating a natural flow between the cooking, dining and living areas. The island’s base features subtle vertical ribbing, adding more texture and a handcrafted feel that works in tandem with the sleek cabinetry and extractor panelling. 

Key to the technical design was balancing functionality with the stunning aesthetic. With the challenge of a compact space, window positioning, and accommodation of the existing boiler, typical zoning principles were challenged. However, through close collaboration between Muchmore, PAD and the client, we were able to deliver a layout that optimised the client’s daily flow while still achieving a timelessly elegant look.

The finishes selected are a beautiful example of how classic and contemporary design can work in harmony. From PAD’s St John’s Wood Collection, we selected Abercorn door in Savannah, paired with fluted panelling to the island for added depth and texture. The dramatic Calacatta Rosatto marble splashback takes centre stage, complemented by antique brass hardware and soft pendant lighting, while a central island with bar seating enhances both functionality and flow.

Tall cabinetry conceals storage and appliances, while a clean run of drawers and cupboards stretches beneath the window and along the back wall. An open shelf above provides space for books, art and accessories, softening the otherwise linear design. The cabinetry is finished softly, lending a calm neutrality in contrast to the dramatic marble splash-back made from the Calacatta Viola Marble. Both decorative and durable, it introduces movement and artistry into the space. 

The result is a kitchen that is practical, inviting and visually striking a natural continuation of the home’s design language of refined restraint and quiet sophistication.

Contemporary and Timeless: The Living Room 

Flowing directly from the kitchen, the living room is designed for both relaxation and entertaining. It is a continuation of neutral tones, with pops of colour and layered textures mixed in with carefully selected designer pieces – along with our client’s existing possessions, giving the room real personality. The result is a living space that feels authentic and inviting, yet sophisticated.

At two corners of the space were two unused alcoves that provided an opportunity to improve storage and make a statement. The team created two bespoke arched bookcases, sprayed in a deep earthy green that immediately grounds the room. They are symmetrical but dual purpose, elevating the functionality and design. One houses the television, neatly integrated into the joinery, while the other is a stage for curated objects, books and other items. Between them, a softly rounded mirror introduces a sense of fluidity, bouncing light from the adjoining spaces and subtly expanding the room’s proportions.

Soft lighting, subtle brass picture lights from above the shelves, and a minimalist floor lamp, give the room a warm and inviting atmosphere. Meanwhile, dark timber flooring grounds the entire room, introducing warmth and contrast to the otherwise light and neutral palette.

The styling throughout is carefully restrained. A vase with fresh flowers, a tray with candles, and a tactile throw are all it takes to create an atmosphere of understated ease. Natural textures, a woven rug underfoot, the softness of upholstery, and the gleam of ceramics, bring warmth to the pared-back palette. 

As a result, the room has been transformed into a cohesive, multifunctional living area that feels both stylish and lived-in, creating a space that feels both contemporary and timeless, layered with detail, yet not overdone.

A Calming Retreat: The Master Bedroom

Our approach to the master bedroom was to create a sanctuary from busy day-to-day life. The design was not about making a statement but about creating a restful atmosphere. By stripping back anything unnecessary and layering in thoughtful details and finishes, we crafted a space that feels deeply personal and restorative.

Included in our specification was a bespoke fitted wardrobe, triple column radiator, bespoke headboard, ottoman bed, dressing table and rug. This welcoming space was achieved by introducing a soft and muted palette, plush textiles, premium finishes, ambient lighting and design details.

The oversized, bespoke headboard enhances the sense of comfort and presence. It is upholstered in a cream, textured fabric that runs across the wall in three large panels, adding comfort and a sense of form and presence.

Instead of traditional bedside lamps, two pendants drop elegantly from the ceiling – their brass detailing adding a subtle touch of glamour. Made from alabaster natural stone, each piece boasts its own distinctive veining and appearance, giving a uniqueness and luxurious aesthetic. The hanging pendants also free up space on the bedside table, ensuring the surface feels uncluttered and intentional. The Jacob bedside tables are standout pieces, crafted from rich dark wood with vertical ribbing. In addition, a tabletop completes the look with solid marble in a coordinating finish. 

Design Philosophy 

This renovation demonstrates that elegance lies in the edit. Rather than filling rooms with excess, we focused on form, proportion and texture. The spaces have been designed to support everyday living, but in a refined aspirational style. 

The restrained palettes are warmed by materiality, ensuring that while the spaces are calm, they are never flat. Above all, we wanted to achieve a sense of cohesion. Each room speaks to the next, supporting a design language of effortless sophistication. The result is a home that feels as timeless as it is contemporary – rooted in comfort, elevated by craft, and designed to be lived in and adored.