When our clients, a couple in their 60s, reached out, they were preparing for a significant transition in their lives. With only one son still living at home, they were beginning to reshape their family home into a forever home that suited their new lifestyle as empty nesters.
Their aim was to create a space that felt tailored to their needs – practical, stylish, and functional for both quiet evenings and lively gatherings.
Having been introduced to Natalie Holden Interiors through another of their sons, who had hired the team to help renovate his apartment, they trusted us to bring their vision to life and tackle the challenges of their home’s current layout.
The Problem
The house’s open-plan design, while spacious, lacked purpose and functionality.
A pair of double doors separated the two main lounges but created more problems than they solved. Instead of facilitating flow, the doors disrupted the layout, cutting off valuable wall space, forcing awkward furniture arrangements, leaving certain areas underutilised, and creating dead spaces in each of the rooms.
The bay window in the front lounge, once a beautiful feature, was partially obstructed by poorly placed curtains, further diminishing the room’s potential. Meanwhile, the lack of defined zones made it difficult to use the spaces effectively, resulting in areas that felt uninviting and underwhelming.
Our clients wanted a solution that would allow the home to work better for them.
They envisioned two distinct spaces: a front lounge for relaxing and entertainment, and a back lounge that could function as a vibrant social hub, bordering the kitchen, for hosting friends and family. Importantly, the design needed to reflect their current stage in life – a blend of comfort, elegance, and practicality.
The Solution
We began by addressing the awkward flow between the two lounges. Closing off the double doors was the first step in creating two distinct, functional spaces. This decision added crucial wall space in the front lounge, allowing us to rethink furniture placement and maximise the room’s potential.
In the front lounge, we created a cosy and intimate retreat. The newly closed-off wall enabled a more practical layout, with furniture arranged for comfort and functionality. A bespoke media unit became the centrepiece, offering tailored storage and a sleek, modern aesthetic. To make the bay window a feature once again, we added textural dress curtains that complemented the Venetian blinds already in place, creating warmth and sophistication without overwhelming the space.
The back lounge was transformed into a dynamic living-dining area. This multifunctional space was designed to host social gatherings while maintaining a sense of openness that connected naturally to the kitchen. A contemporary panoramic fireplace was installed as a striking focal point, framed with traditional Venetian plaster for added depth and elegance.
Lighting played a pivotal role in elevating both spaces. We introduced layered lighting schemes with wall lights, LEDs, and thoughtfully placed circuits, giving the clients the flexibility to adapt the ambience for different occasions. Durable laminate flooring tied the two lounges together, maintaining a sense of cohesion while allowing each room to express its unique identity.
Challenges and Unexpected Hurdles
Budget constraints emerged as the most significant challenge throughout the project, as unexpected costs quickly began to accumulate.
The structural work required to block off the double doors and underpin the chimney breast for the fireplace was far more complex and expensive than initially estimated. These necessary changes stretched the budget significantly, particularly as the clients remained living in the home during the work, adding logistical complications.
On top of this, the property’s outdated wiring required a full electrical rewire to meet safety standards. This unforeseen expense not only impacted the budget but also delayed progress, with the project being deemed unsafe to proceed without these works being carried out.
The escalating costs created pressure on key design elements that were integral to the overall vision, including the bespoke joinery and soft furnishings. Balancing these elements with the unexpected expenses became a critical part of the project, requiring creative problem-solving to ensure the final design met the clients’ expectations without exceeding their financial comfort zone.
Creative Solutions
Flexibility and collaboration were essential to overcoming these challenges. By working closely with our trusted tradespeople and making the most of trade discounts, we were able to ensure the project stayed on track without compromising on quality or design.
For the bespoke media unit in the front lounge, we collaborated with the joiner to refine the design, simplifying certain elements to make it more cost-effective while retaining its functionality and visual impact.
In the bay window, we opted for dress curtains instead of fully functional ones, significantly reducing the amount of fabric required. This practical choice not only brought costs down but also enhanced the room’s aesthetic by adding softness and texture.
In the back lounge, sheer curtains and a Roman blind added subtle elegance while allowing natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
The Final Outcome
The transformation exceeded the clients’ expectations. Each room now has its own identity while maintaining a cohesive overall design.
The front lounge is a serene retreat, perfect for relaxation and entertainment. The bespoke media unit anchors the room, while the thoughtful addition of dress curtains has revitalised the bay window, turning it into a charming feature that enhances the space’s comfort and style.
The back lounge is now a lively, multifunctional area designed for hosting and everyday living. The panoramic fireplace serves as a dramatic centrepiece, while the seamless flow into the kitchen creates a natural connection that’s ideal for socialising. The layered lighting and refined décor ensure this space is both functional and visually appealing.
By addressing the awkwardness of the original layout, we were able to create a home that reflects the clients’ new lifestyle – functional, stylish, and built to stand the test of time.
Here’s what the client had to say about the transformation:
“We had two separate rooms with an added extension; the larger room was not being used and we had no idea how to make the whole space work. Natalie and Leanne provided clear planning and the whole process was seamless and they kept us up to date throughout.
“We are delighted with our new home. The changes made mean we now use all rooms – This has been life changing for our family – we cannot thank them enough.”
Reflections
This project is a reminder of the importance of designing homes that adapt to life’s transitions. By focusing on the clients’ needs and working creatively within their budget, we delivered a space that balances practicality and beauty.
The challenges of this project also highlighted the value of contingency planning. Structural surprises and unexpected expenses are often unavoidable, but with careful collaboration and flexible thinking, they can be managed effectively.
For our clients, this transformation marked the beginning of a new chapter in their forever home – a space where they can relax, entertain, and enjoy the next phase of their lives.