HOW TO AVOID DATED INTERIORS
How to avoid dated interiors
Although I’m not much of a sports fan, I am particularly fond of a saying used by commentators to describe the performance of an athlete: form is temporary, class is permanent.
It rather resonates with interior designers as we’re often called to homes where the occupant has embraced some, let’s say, less-than-flattering design trends. Home fashions are very much like sporting form – sometimes there is a temporary blip - but if a property has good ‘bones’, it has permanent class.
As well as affecting the overall aesthetic, an outdated décor or style faux pas can make a property look cheap and affect its value – a pertinent point if you’re looking to sell. As a London interior design company, we can help you identify those aspects that may be holding your home’s potential back. If any of the following are relevant, get in touch as Rudolph Diesel Interiors can help:-
Net curtains: the 1980s are calling and they want their nets back. Anything lacey or scalloped should be avoided in favour of blinds, shutters, curtains or even voile.
Brown carpets: yes, it hides a multitude of stains but a chocolate-coloured carpet belongs to another decade and will suck the light (and life) out of a room.
Yellow walls: sunny and bright when used correctly, as advised by an interior designer, but the wrong yellow can feel sickly with nicotine overtones.
Pine furniture: cheap looking and chunky, you’ll need to appraise whether it really goes with the age and style of your home. If it jars, repaint and change the handles.
Pebble dash: can you believe pebble dash was used to hide beautiful bricks? If it can’t be removed – a laborious job - paint over it to make it less obvious.
Carpets in bathrooms: wrong on every level. If you want warmth and softness under foot, add a machine-washable rug or opt for underfloor heating.
Pallet furniture: if you went DIY furniture crazy and raided a builder’s yard to make a pallet sofa, it will look low-cost, no matter how many scatter cushions you add.
Textured ceiling: ahhh Artex – a real retro relic that’s an immediate turn off. Anything applied before 1984 may contain asbestos so will need professional removal.
7 high end interior design tricks to try
Try these ideas to get yourself out of an interior design rut and instantly upgrade your home:
1. If your home has original features, such as a fireplace or sash windows, make sure they’re in the best condition possible and are proudly on display.
2. Let natural light flood the property, as bright and airy always feels better than dark and dingy. Remove swags and pelmets, and keep glass panes unobstructed.
3. Declutter with a vengeance, paying attention to worktops in the kitchen, sideboards, bathrooms and coffee tables. A neat, streamlined home feels more sophisticated.
4. Try and match your furniture and décor to the period of your property – this will create a curated luxury interior design with minimal effort.
5. Paint the walls in every room the same colour – ideally a light neutral. This will ‘pull together’ your property, and you can add character with artwork and mirrors.
6. Replace, clean or fix anything that’s broken, frayed, stained, dirty or mouldy. Signs of neglect will cheapen a home – even if it’s an antique heirloom rug.
7. Stop with the off-the shelf art and objet d’art. Nothing says mass market more than the same prints from Ikea or the ‘in vogue’ vase from Oliver Bonas.
WHY I LOVE WINDSOR
WHY I LOVE WINDSOR
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he heads out to the Home Counties in search of one of Berkshire’s most distinguished locations.
Love to look at
Windsor has the royal seal of approval as its castle is the largest and oldest occupied example in the world. It is reputed that King Charles III was never a big fan of the residence but it appears he’s had a change of heart, as there are signs of room renovations and the instalment of some of the King’s possessions. No doubt a number of refreshed luxury interiors are being created and the good news is the castle is open to the public five days a week for perhaps a glimpse of His Majesty’s influence. Another beautiful sight is Windsor Great Park, which spans 2,020 hectares and includes a deer park, historical monuments, ancient forests and the famous, 2.5 mile tree-lined Long Walk.
Love to shop
Interior designers often gravitate to Windsor Yards for retail therapy, as there’s an enticing mix of boutique stores and high-end brands under one roof. These include Clarendon Fine Art – a must-visit when I need to fill a blank wall, while Daniel department store is reliable for brands including Ercol, The Fine Bedding Company and SMEG. If you prefer your products loaded with provenance, a browse around Windsor Vintage is a must. From lighting and Lalique glassware, to mirrors and mid-century furniture, there’s a unique purchase just waiting.
Love to eat
The hottest table in town is at The Loch & The Tyne in Old Windsor, where chef Adam Handling elevates classic British food to new heights. The décor is a mix of Highland chic and traditional English drawing room – comforting high end interior designs paired with comfort food. Plate at No. 6 is where I’d head for an informal business meeting or brunch. Its sharing dishes and small plates are the perfect way to explore its stunning Mediterranean-influenced menu. With so much to see in Windsor, sometimes time dictates it’s a pastry and coffee to go situation. Danish Bakery Ole & Steen is the most stylish for miles. Get your sugar fix from a delectable ‘stænger’ filled with cinnamon, chocolate or almond, washed down with a suitably strong ‘kaffe.’
STYLING A RENTED PROPERTY
Styling a rented property
There is a great framework in place to ensure tenants feel at home in their rented property but allowances stop short in respect of one element – decorating. Many tenancy agreements stipulate that renters can’t make physical changes to the property, which rules out painting, wallpapering and even as much as using Blu Tack on the walls.
It’s highly likely that renters will move into an homage to magnolia – neutral, but oh so bland. If tenants really want to personalise the property by applying their own shade of paint, they can approach the landlord for permission to redecorate.
If agreed, concessions may come in the form of the landlord stipulating the paint brand or colour used, or even insisting the tenant pay for a professional decorator to undertake the work. More liberal landlords may merely request the property’s walls are repainted in the original colour at the end of the tenancy.
If a lick of paint is off the menu, all is not lost. The manufacturer Command™ has an amazing range of self-adhesive strips and hooks that are damage free, and can be removed cleanly without leaving holes, marks or sticky residue. Use the products to hang pictures, create wall-mounted photo galleries and support strings of fairy lights.
Even if you can’t pep up wishy-washy walls with something more uplifting, there are other ways to style a rented property and create a luxury interior design. Accessories are your best friend and you can upgrade any interior in London by choosing the boldest, brightest items.
Start with soft furnishings, such as cushions, throws and lampshades. A statement kilim rug, for example, will inject colour into a living room and hide a multitude of sins if the carpet isn’t in tip-top condition. Soft furnishings also have the added bonus of being portable – simply pack them up and take them to your next property.
Don’t discount the art of ‘propping’ either. Leaning an oversized, decorative mirror against a wall can be very effective, especially if you craft a pretty vignette using a cluster of other objects, such as an antique stool and a decorative lantern. If you have a mantlepiece, propping with a collection of framed photos and artworks is a quick way to add that high end interior design feel.
Finally, lush house plants in vibrant pots instantly add colour and shape. Ensure you include some tall plants for an interesting backdrop - add uplighting and you’ll create a dramatic contrast at night. Houseplant varieties to consider include monstera, banana leaf, snake plant, calathea and fiddle leaf fig.
WHY I LOVE RICHMOND
WHY I LOVE RICHMOND
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
When it comes to Richmond, I could start (and stop) at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as the natural forms, colours and shapes provide interior designers with a lifetime’s worth of inspiration. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to more than 50,000 living plants, the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, King William’s Temple, formal Japanese gardens and an arboretum. More flora and fauna envelopes you at Richmond Park - the largest of London's Royal Parks at 2,500 acres. As well as woodlands, grasslands and wildflowers, herds of wild red and fallow deer have been roaming freely in the park since 1637. Sometimes the best sights, however, can be seen from walking along the Thames Path. The Hampton Court to Barnes stretch takes you through Richmond, with opportunities to admire Hampton Court Palace; Hamlands nature reserve; Ham House & Gardens; Marble Hill House; Petersham Meadows and Old Deer Park.
Love to shop
I absolutely adore the concept at Bridge & Hill Livingstore, where the motto is ‘buy good things, keep them a long time’. Interior designers love the expertly-curated collection of homewares that effortlessly lend a clean, paired back elegance to projects. There’s even an in-house café and gallery space to entice you to stay longer. At the other end of the shopping spectrum is Zara Home. While it’s a global phenomenon for the masses – and not exclusive to Richmond - its brilliant basics can be seen in many an interior in London. If it’s finishing touches you’re after, head to Bramble & Moss. As well as fresh bouquets, it stocks a range of dried flower arrangements, exotic house plants and terrariums.
Love to eat
Richmond’s riverside position has been magnificently exploited by Tide Tables – a café located in an arch under Richmond Bridge. Find a chair and admire one of the most Instagram-able views around. For luxury interiors and luxury food, there’s Scott’s, where oysters, caviar and lobster are served alongside mirrored ceilings, velvet chairs and an Art Deco-style bar. An interesting alternative is Petersham Nurseries, where you dine in an immaculately-styled greenhouse surrounded by fragrant bougainvillea and jasmine. If you haven’t got time for a leisurely lunch, pop by The Alberts Deli. You can pre-order a breakfast, brunch or lunch from the kitchen menu, or shop for ingredients from independent producers to prepare at home.
INTERIOR FASHION FADS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
‘Fast fashion’ is a concept that we normally apply to clothing but at interior design studios in London, there are more frequent conversations about the longevity and sustainability of the projects we install.
I’ve often found ‘less is more’ trends survive the test of time – simple, chic and enduring combinations underpinned by quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. That doesn’t mean interior designers can’t embrace the ‘of the moment’ fashions. It's knowing how to combine fashion fixes with longevity that matters, avoiding expensive mistakes along the way.
If you’ve been tempted by an interior look but are worried about making a long-term faux pas, here’s our quick guide to current fads and timeless fashions.
Keep: timeless classics
Open plan spaces
The days of keeping everything closed off have been left in the past but how we approach open plan living is still up for interpretation. Many homeowners are finding vast spaces hard to heat and keep warm, so we envisage a degree of flexibility – double doors and sliding ‘pocket’ partitions that allows spaces to be open plan or closed off, according to the atmosphere and flow of space required.
Classic elegance
The colours, patterns and fabrics in the ‘classic’ category can be used liberally without fear of dating. The starting point for elegance is always quality – high end interior design demands luxurious fabrics and wallcoverings. You should immediately think of fleur de lys patterns, damask wallpaper, linens and chenille – all in subtle shades of white, cream and taupe with soft metallic highlights.
Mid-century style
Luxury interior design from this era has stuck around, whether it’s a classic Eames chair or an Ercol dining table. Our longing for the mid-century look was reignited when Mad Men hit our TV screens in 2007, with Don Draper reminding us why the simple lines and wooden accents of the 20th century still make design sense today. Now, mid-century designs are kept from feeling too retro by the use of complementary Japandy and Scandi styling.
Caution: passing fads
The scallop edge
Everyone seems to adore the soft curves of the scallop but there’s a fine line between subtle embracement and overkill. If you’re determined to embrace the trend, opt for a painted border that can easily be covered over, rather than scalloped-edge furniture or soft furnishings, which are less practical to replace.
Dried flowers
Although they fit in with our social, sustainable conscious, the actual dried flowers will definitely outlast their fashion appeal. The good news is a dried flower arrangement doesn’t have to be an expensive splurge and if you have access to a garden or hedgerow, you can even curate your own handtied bouquet.
Terrazzo
Although loved by many, terrazzo is an absolute personal bugbear of mine. Many interior designers find it a hard material to work with, and it can be costly when specified across large expanses of walls, floors and work surfaces – especially if you have an inkling you’ll go off the jazzy pattern within a few months. If you’re set on incorporating an element of terrazzo into your scheme, we suggest creating a classic backdrop using neutral colours and adding terrazzo accessories, such as lamp bases, bathroom tumblers and even washstand-mounted basins.
WHY I LOVE HOXTON
WHY I LOVE HOXTON
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Any interior designers worth their salt would head straight to the Museum of the Home just for its Rooms Through Time displays. A myriad of room sets depict how Londoners have lived over the last 400 years, from 18th century parlours to 1970s front rooms. If the Victorian era floats your boat, a visit to Hoxton Hall is a good follow up. Built in 1863 in a traditional music hall style, it survived two world wars and now provides a lavish, velvety backdrop for today’s performance artists. Art of a different kind also flourishes in Hoxton, especially after Jay Jopling’s White Cube contemporary art gallery burst onto the creative scene in 1993. While the original gallery has relocated, its legacy is a flourish of creatives exhibiting across Hoxton’s spaces, including galleries Peer, D’Stassi Art and Flowers.
Love to shop
If arranging books was an art form, surely there would be a prize for Hoxton Books. Its cool, minimalist styling lets the book covers really catch the eye. If it’s your olfactory sense that needs stimulating, head to Angela Flanders – an artisan perfumery in a perfectly restored Victorian shop. Her collection of fragrances for the home and body is exquisite – a venture that started with pot pourri in 1985. Finally, Columbia Road Flower Market is where sights, sounds and smells collide. Find London interior decorators there every Sunday morning, collecting their much-loved floral arrangements and house plants.
Love to eat
Hoxton is overflowing with places to eat and drink, so it’s hard to pick a few favourites. If I’m in a convivial crowd, Rapsa is a great restaurant as its Filipino fusion food is designed to be shared. Night owls in need of a nightcap should head to Hoxton Square. There’s a diverse choice of hostelries, from the neon wackiness of Tonight Josephine, the speakeasy vibe of Happiness Forgets and the Pop Art-meets-Chesterfield sofa interiors at Gigi’s. If I’m in Hoxton for business and not pleasure, Gaff is the place to order a coffee and open your laptop. Inspired by loft interiors and simple lines, it lends itself to catching up on emails or researching materials for the next luxury interior project.
FRENCH DOORS: THE OOH LA LA OF OPENINGS
French doors: the ooh la la of openings
Luxury interior design often leans heavily on Gallic influences and one of the most popular trends from across the Channel are French doors. These are thought to have originated in France during the 16th and 17th centuries, when architects strived to achieve elegant proportions and maximum natural light.
In the UK, our love of French doors blossomed when the humble patio door fell out of fashion. To explain the difference, patio doors traditionally have a sliding mechanism, while French doors open outwards via a hinge system.
Of course, the bifold door is the opening de jour but if you’re aiming to achieve a high end interior design that’s underpinned by classic styling, French doors will lend authenticity and a sense of sophistication.
A set of French doors thrown open can frame a beautiful view in a way patio doors can’t, enticing people to make the transition from inside to out. They can also add a sense of drama and draw attention to attractive aspects. Here are four places where French doors would fit the interior design bill:
Orangeries
An orangery has long been a luxury design feature, originally added to a property at great expense to protect tender and exotic plants. Today, orangeries are an excellent way of adding another reception or dining room to a property. Orangeries are traditionally light-filled spaces, with a roof lantern, therefore French doors are the perfect partner.
Rear extensions
It’s natural to borrow a piece of the garden for a first-floor extension, so retaining access to the outside will become an integral part of the architectural design. If you have your heart set on an expanse of glass to the rear, you don’t have to forgo French doors. There are modern takes on the classic design – even if you’re following an Art Deco path. A set of black-framed, Crittall-style French doors can be seamlessly woven into your design.
Pantries & wine storage
French doors can be used inside instead of solid cupboard doors – perfect if the contents are too good to hide. Well organised pantries with exquisitely-labelled glass jars are in vogue and French doors will allow you to show off your organisational skills - especially if the shelves are lit with spot lighting. The same applies for wine storage, with racks of Chateau Lafite, Cabernet Sauvignon and Burgundy a real showpiece. Even a glimpse of glass-fronted wine fridges can make a bold design statement.
Internal partitions
Many interior design companies in London recognise that homeowners actually prefer to switch between open-plan living and separate rooms, and one way to achieve this is to specify internal partitions with openings. We would add the widest possible French doors between rooms so they can be opened to yield one fluid space, or shut to create more intimate, cosy rooms. Internal French doors can be solid for maximum privacy, or partially glazed to let natural light flow yet noise be contained.
The Rudolph Diesel Interiors team would be delighted to discuss how French doors could add a certain je ne sais quoi to your home. Please get in touch for design inspiration.
WHY I LOVE GREENWICH
WHY I LOVE GREENWICH
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Greenwich is a visual feast that has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Maritime Museum celebrates life at sea and its art collections are some of the finest in the country. Directly opposite is the Old Royal Naval College – an architectural masterpiece in the baroque style, with The Painted Hall a stunning focal point. You can’t visit Greenwich without seeing the world’s most famous clipper – The Cutty Sark – while the Royal Observatory gives the opportunity to lift your gaze upwards to the stars. And don’t forget to stand on the Prime Meridian Line, where time literally starts, before taking in Greenwich Park’s panoramic view across the London skyline.
Love to shop
Greenwich has long been the home of browsing and Greenwich Market remains one of the finest examples south of the river. Depending on the day, the square will be packed with arts and craft or antique stalls, with a supporting cast of street food vendors, jewellery, fashion and lifestyle traders. If your mantra is to support local as you plan your luxury interior, pop in to Made in Greenwich. It carries the work of more than 100 local artists and guarantees your purchase will be pretty unique. Personally, I’ll head straight to Pickwick Papers & Fabrics for an utterly disarming array of textiles, fabrics, wallpapers and paints – it’s where us London interior decorators flock!
Love to eat
If you’re a Francophile, there’s only one venue for you. Champagne + Fromage may be boutique in size but it oozes Parisian chic and is bursting with French favourites, including vintage fizz, snails de Bourgogne and raclette. In contrast is Sticks ‘n’ Sushi, where the interior designers have crossed Nordic minimalism with Japanese brand Muji to create a slick décor. Feast on maki, nigiri, sashimi and yakitori skewers while admiring the pared back beauty. If you like loft concept interior design, Midpoint hits the right notes. Here you can order an endless supply of Turkish meze while admiring the raw brickwork and exposed pipework. Finally, coffee and cake lovers with a conscience should head to Arapina – a vegan and vegetarian bakery where the mushroom croissants are served among a carefully curated indoor garden.
INTERIOR DESIGN VS ARCHITECTURE
Interior design versus architecture
The ‘90s have a lot to answer for. In 1996, the first ever episode of the BBC show Changing Rooms was broadcast and it quickly defined, rightly or wrongly, the image of interior design. While flouncing about in frilled shirts, rag rolling paint onto walls and making clients cry was a hit with TV viewers, it didn’t portray the true depth and skills of interior designers.
Interior designers are responsible for so much more than fluffing cushions and arranging flowers. We cross over with architects and construction professionals almost daily in our quest to execute the perfect project.
For me, the overlap with architects is especially acute. While working on a recent interior in London, I quickly identified that when creating the structure of the property, the architect had added a library next to the kitchen but failed to leave any space for a dining table.
Architects, while highly skilled at the technical elements of property design and remodelling, don’t always plan for how a space is to be used – the daily dynamics, family interactions, ergonomics and domestic anthropology. Of course, architects are vital. Their detailed drawings and measurements will ensure a project is safe, feasible and most likely to gain planning permission. Their blueprint will also inform the construction stage and without their input, a project would be in chaos.
Many interior designers, however, have what I call an ‘holistic eye’. They see space on multiple levels – the structure, the position of fixtures and the specification needed to meet the client’s brief. They advise on the best skirting board or cornicing, devise a flattering lighting scheme and devise a furniture layout based on the property’s orientation and flow of natural light.
Frequently, an interior design studio in London will ask an architect to make revisions based on their wider project plan – perhaps moving a wall here or making a doorway wider there. It is often these tweaks that elevate a house into a well-performing home.
With this in mind, there are a number of interior design architects in London, with some qualified or highly experienced in both disciplines. This really is the next level up in terms of skill and knowledge, and is as far away from the cast of Changing Rooms as you can get.
It’s very rare that an architect will be able to lead a client on the entire design and build journey. An interior designer should be involved throughout any refurbishment or new build process, from the first meeting on site, to the day the project is signed off. We’re here to shape, advise and inform, ensuring the finished product is cohesive and on point. Speak to Rudolph Diesel Interiors for an expert’s take on interior design.
SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT
Small changes, big impact
Title: Small changes, big impact: 8 easy ways to update your home
Not everyone has the time, money or inclination to rip it out and start again but if your home is in need of an update, there are a number of shortcuts to improve home style. Here are 8 property styling tips for those stuck in an interiors rut.
1. Replace net curtains: nothing says the 1980s like lacey net curtains and swapping these out for something more modern will provide an instant update. Keeping windows completely unobscured is what interior designers prefer but if all-day privacy is important, plain voile panels or roller blinds are simple, unfussy alternatives.
2. Upgrade your gas fire: radiant bar-style gas fires were a thing of beauty in the 1960s but if you’re still nursing this source of heat, your home will feel dated. Interiors in London often require a gas fire if they lie in a smoke control area and thankfully, there are some stylish living flame and log-burner style options available.
3. Repaint pine furniture: the orange undertones and shiny varnish usually applied to pine furniture takes us back to the 1990s but there are a number of upcycle fixes if the item is functional but plainly unfashionable. The quickest is replacing original wood handles and feet with contemporary metal alternatives but sanding back, priming and repainting will complete a total transform.
4. Remove dried flowers: even if you’ve removed all traces of chintz from your walls and upholstery, your choice of accessories can let you down. With the exception of the creations from a few dried flower specialists, dried flowers and potpourri belong in a distant decade. Instead, fragrance your home with reed diffusers and scented candles, and dress your home with real house plants.
5. Cover unsightly carpets: a heavily patterned, worn or stained carpet can ruin your home’s overall appeal but it’s an expensive change to make. A large rug will cover a myriad of sins and can be bought in a more modern style that reflects how you have redecorated the rest of your home.
6. Apply a fresh coat of paint: fashionable paint colours usually have a limited shelf life, so the joy of your coral feature wall or teal guest room may quickly evaporate. Timeless, modern house interiors are usually painted in the polar opposite – either a crisp white or Farrow & Ball’s Down Pipe black – so opting for monochrome will make all the difference. Just add pops of colour with artwork and accessories.
7. Swap old light shades for new: often overlooked, light shades can really set the tone of a room. If you currently have fabric shades, think about opaque glass or rattan examples. If your shades are neutral and plain, swap them for Liberty or Morris & Co prints.
8. Change switches & sockets: white plastic light switches and plug sockets scream boring basics but it’s easy to elevate the aesthetic with a visit to a hardware store. Look out for chrome, brushed gold, copper and matt black options that will provide the perfect finishing touch.
If you are planning more major interior and structural changes, please contact Rudolph Diesel Interiors for a full consultation, design and installation service.
WHY I LOVE CROUCH END
WHY I LOVE CROUCH END
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Crouch End is a mélange of easy-on-the-eye Edwardian and Victorian buildings, with warmth provided by red brick, white plasterwork and architectural flourishes. The town’s iconic clocktower appeared in 1895 and although its era is late Victorian, it celebrates the more frivolous Italian Renaissance style. Its octagonal cupola, blind arcades and supporting corbels, Kentish ragstone, iron weathervane and banded brickwork are hard to miss. If you like your landmarks with a pint of lager, you’re in luck. The Queens public house, on the corner of Tottenham Lane and Elder Avenue, is a grade II* listed edifice. It was built by the architect John Cathles Hill between 1898 and 1902, with wonderful Art Nouveau stained glass by the most magnificently named Cakebread Robey.
Love to shop
I love fashion design as much as interior design, so the ever-changing window display at Niddle Noodle always fascinates me. This children’s clothing and gift boutique is just one of a myriad of independent traders in the Topsfield Parade area of Crouch End. Flashback Records is where you’ll find vinyl lovers, while The Crouch End Cellars is a must for wine, beer, charcuterie and cheese. If your antipasti isn’t complete without some freshly-baked bread, Sourdough Sophia is the best for baked goods. And don’t miss Park Road too – a shopping enclave home to Little Paris Store, with its carefully curated vintage furniture and quirky homewares.
Love to eat
If you believe breakfast is the best meal of the day, Café Beam is a must. The owners enjoy a Middle Eastern heritage so it’s no surprise to see Turkish eggs and Shakshukaf on the menu. Always exclaiming ‘let’s do lunch’? You won’t be disappointed in Crouch End. Personal midday favourites include Bistro Aix and Lyon’s Seafood & Wine Bar – both with luxury interior designs to check out. Night owls can nestle in at Little Mercies – a cocktail bar and restaurant serving wonderful small plates in a very pared back, sophisticated interior.
WHY I LOVE PUTNEY
WHY I LOVE PUTNEY
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
You can kill two birds with one stone as you walk along Putney Embankment. Not only will you be treated to some of the best riverside views in London, you can follow the Putney Sculpture Trail that encompasses nine installations by British sculptor Alan Thornhill. Find them dotted between Leaders Gardens and Riverside Quarter. If art floats your boat, pop by The Russell Gallery, which is set just 400 yards from Putney Bridge and is a space devoted to modern, British art. Speaking of boats, Putney also provides the starting point for the annual Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race – it really is a spectacle worth seeing.
Love to shop
For cosy yet pared back interior design, form an orderly queue outside Blåbär Nordic Living on Putney’s Lacy Road – even I can sometimes be seen in line for the ceramics and Icelandic sheepskins. London’s luxury interior design often calls for a larder in the kitchen and smart jars are de rigueur. Head to The Source for a plethora of glass options with bamboo lids, and for an assortment of larder essentials that will allow you to go plastic free. Of course, home fragrance is now an integral part of interiors in London and you can stock up on Charles Farris candle tins at Huttons.
Love to eat
With a prime riverside spot, stunning balcony and garden terrace,The Boathouse is a must. The kitchen specialises in fish and seafood, so book a table and enjoy dishes such as Scottish mussels as the sun sets over the Thames. While eating al fresco is sublime during the summer, nothing beats a hearty Sunday roast inThe Spencer when the seasons change, especially if you bag a table by the wood burner. A quirky alternative isPutney Pies, where the British staple is served alongside a pleasingly-curated cocktail menu and travelling art exhibitions. If that wasn’t enough, top DJs regularly take over the premises’ basement nightclub - The Vault.
INTERIOR DESIGN VERSUS INTERIOR DECORATING
Interior design versus interior decorating
How are your DIY and design skills? If you’re not filming your furniture ‘hack’ success stories or posting room reveals on social media, you may need professional help when attempting to redecorate or remodel your home. There are two main disciplines to come to your aid: interior design and interior decorating, and there is a big difference between the two.
While many people enter the world of interior decorating because they have a good eye for detail and a healthy following on Instagram, interior design is a profession that requires training, qualifications and credentials.
What’s unique to interior design
High end interior design projects, especially the schemes we execute in London, are complex and multi-layered. Interior designers liaise with architects and structural engineers, as well as trades and suppliers, frequently stepping into the role of project manager.
At the heart of interior design is spatial planning, which may involve substantial remodelling or structural work. The Rudolph Diesel interior design studio in London is where our CGIs are produced. These accurate representations of space, light, colour and texture allows us to reposition walls and add in new furniture in a digital capacity, and can only be produced by skilled artists.
How does interior design work in practice? A client may want to improve how they entertain at home, requesting a mix of formal and informal areas, all executed with a new degree of luxury. An interior designer would perhaps recommend adding double doors to a wall that separates the dining room and the kitchen to unite the rooms; installing an island with a wine cooler and multiple bar stools for casual gatherings; and commissioning a bespoke dining table that could be extended to seat 8, 10 or 12.
Not only would a space plan be created, an interior designer would advise on new lighting and power supply requirements. They’d also position the fixtures and fittings to accommodate the client’s style of entertaining and create an aesthetic that fits the brief – all while orchestrating furniture designers, builders and carpenters.
The common ground
There is no doubt that interior decorators can produce some stunning luxury interiors but they are usually best used when the essence of a property is to remain the same and just a cosmetic overhaul is required.
The beauty of interior design is the individual or company behind the project will invariably have the training required to also carry out an interior decorator role. Luxury interior designers in London will have studied the psychology of colour, the use of upholstery and the intricacies of furniture design, while being in tune with the latest paint, wallpaper and accessory trends. They’ll also have a good grasp of ergonomics and anthropometrics so a finished project is functional as well as fabulous.
Rudolph Diesel is an interior design specialist and the team co-ordinates all aspects of remodelling, renovations, redecorating and home staging. Contact us to discuss your requirements.
WHY I LOVE WANDSWORTH
WHY I LOVE WANDSWORTH
Love to look at
If you have an interest in unusual architecture, you’ll love Royal Victoria Patriotic Building on Wandsworth Common - a Victorian edifice in a Gothic Revival style, combining Scottish Baronial and French Châteauesque elements. Now a complex of studios, workshops, a drama school and residential apartments – many of which boast a stunning interior design – the best way to appreciate the architecture is by dining in the on-site restaurant, Le Gothique. If architectural flourishes are not your thing, head to neighbouring Battersea, where the brutal but brilliant Power Station dominates the skyline. Join the self-guided Heritage Trail or pre-register for Lift 109 – a ride in a glass elevator to a viewing platform atop one of the iconic chimneys.
Love to shop
I’m a huge fan of high end interior design with biophilic notes, so Neal’s Nurseries on Wandsworth Common is my go-to for house plants - it’s the largest plant centre within Central London. Bayley & Sage on Wandsworth’s Old York Road offers a ‘one-stop-shop’ experience if you’re entertaining or being entertained, with wine, cheese, charcuterie, deli ingredients, bakery services and hand-tied bouquets all on offer. Just to the west of Wandsworth Park in Putney is Blåbär – Nordic Living. Not only is it a gorgeous café, it also stocks the most amazing Scandi chic home furnishings, which elevate the ordinary to design luxury. Also a hop, skip, jump or job from Wandsworth is Lark in Earlsfield. The store is packed with homewares, gifts and clothes – I defy you to leave without a purchase!
Love to eat
You simply can’t write about Wandsworth’s gastronomic scene without writing about Chez Bruce.This Michelin-star establishment has been the ‘south of the river’ restaurant of choice among the stars for decades, offering discretion and a delectable menu. No less unctuous but without the waiting list for a table is The Toast Rack – Wandsworth Common’s best bakery and casual restaurant – they had me at waffle benedict with truffle butter! Balham is within walking distance of SW18 and promises a sensory feast with more urban vibes – head to Post Market on the High Road for a smörgåsbord of pop-up food vendors. At the other end of the spectrum and just a 10-minute drive away isTrinity – a refined restaurant proudly holding a Michelin star.
WHY I LOVE HAMPSTEAD
WHY I LOVE HAMPSTEAD
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
You can’t mention Hampstead without mentioning the Heath but while the focus usually falls on the swimming ponds, there’s a little known attraction that demands your attention. The Hill Garden & Pergola was commissioned by Lord Leverhulme specifically for hosting lavish summer parties. Today you don’t need an invite to explore this abandoned Georgian arbour, terrace and grounds. If you’re looking for period interior design ideas, look no further than Burgh House & Hampstead Museum. This Queen Anne, Grade I listed property is packed with original features, wood panelled rooms and a romantic flourish of wisteria around the front door. Hungry for more historic splendour? Visit English Heritage’s Kenwood House. The dwelling’s interior design story is fascinating, especially the 2012-2013 refurbishment project. This saw over 400 paint samples taken from the library alone, enabling the house to be reinstated to its original colour scheme. Kenwood House has featured in a number of films too, including Notting Hill, Mansfield Park and 101 Dalmatians.
Love to shop
As a luxury interior designer, I’m always drawn to the unique, unusual and valuable. That’s why I can’t pass Hampstead Antique & Craft Emporium without nipping in. From Art Deco objet d’art to turn-of-the-century furniture, it’s literally a treasure trove. As well as the luxury brands that line Hampstead High street (L’Occitane, Maje, Aesop, Whistles and Zadig & Voltaire included), don’t overlook Lords at Home for upscale kitchen paraphernalia and Judy Green’s Garden Store for what every high end interior design needs – gorgeous vases, house plants and bunches of beautiful blooms.
Love to eat
Heath Street Kitchen combines two of my favourite past times: eating and art admiration. This former gallery has transformed into a bistro café, with some amazing art on the walls and a menu that always feels fresh yet indulgent. Missing the Amalfi Coast? Head to Oddono’s for gelato that’s super authentic and made daily. Flavours include pistachio, panettone and nocciola piemonte. And while we’re sweet talking, no visit to Hampstead is complete without a pit stop at La Crêperie de Hampstead. Its crêpes and galettes have been wowing visitors since 1985, with even singer Harry Styles has been spotted queuing at the kiosk.
INTERIOR DESIGN FOR BEDROOM
Interior Design for bedroom
Whether referred to as the boudoir, dormitory, chamber or master suite, luxury interior designers in London know the bedroom is one of the most important spaces in a property.
Designing a new bedroom can also be one of the most creative and expressive experiences. You can dispense with the more restrained and demure approaches sometimes applied to social areas, such as living rooms, and instead embrace wilder designs as the audience is more private. Here are three interior design for bedroom ideas you may like to consider:-
There’s something about Louis
Picture 18th century France and the ‘Louis’ eras, when monarchs Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI were in power. Often referred to as the ‘golden era of French furniture’ by interior designers, this exquisite and often flamboyant style found its home in the bedroom – and it’s still finding favour today.
To achieve the ‘Louis’ look, our interior design studio in London will specify beds and dressing tables with curved, cabriole-style legs and ornate carvings, before accessorising with chandeliers and a chaise lounge. We’ll then elevate the luxury interior theme with lashings of chinoiserie and silk damask fabric, gilt accents and marquetry.
White out
If the desire is to create a Zen sanctuary away from family life, you can’t go wrong with an all-white interior design for bedroom. After all, if it’s good enough for Jennifer Lopez – whose touring rider stipulated an all-white dressing room with white candles, flowers, drapes and tables – it’s good enough for the best interiors in London.
We stop the overall look feeling too clinical or cold in two ways. Adding texture via fabric is a failsafe strategy – think curtains, cushions, blinds and throws in white linen, cashmere, boucle and jacquard. Alternatively, we can layer different shades of white on the walls, furniture and accessories. To give you an example of the variety on offer, Farrow & Ball has over 20 shades of white alone.
Over on the dark side
The bedroom is one space where you can get away with a majestically moody interior design as there’s less concern about natural light and more emphasis on a soothing, cocooning effect. The bravest bedrooms will be colour drenched – a design movement I’ve previously written about where walls, ceilings, woodwork and even radiators are painted the same shade: Carragheen and Top Hat from Fired Earth are two sumptuously rich paints to try.
For those seeking a compromise, a white ceiling and white bedlinen will temper darker walls, or you could opt for wallpaper. Anthriscus Dusk by Graham & Brown and Indian Sunflower in Graphite from Designers Guild are suitably dramatic but have a botanical pattern overlaid against their dark backgrounds, which serve to break up the blocks of colour.
For a professional approach to creating your dream bedroom, please contact Rudolph Diesel Interiors. As well as aesthetics and dressing, we can advise on architectural and structural alterations, such as knocking through two rooms to create a large principal bedroom, converting an attic and adding walls to yield an en suite.
WHY I LOVE SHOREDITCH
WHY I LOVE SHOREDITCH
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Shoreditch is where street art thrives and the best way to admire the brick-based work of Stik, Sweet Toof and even Banksy is to take a walking tour. It’s full of dedicated art spaces and independent cinemas. Rich Mix is a venue for creatives - emerging artists, comedians and musicians, as well as a cinema.
Not quite a London landmark or a historic house, Ballie Ballerson is definitely something to look at - even if you’re just a spectator. This cocktail bar is home to two giant ball pits filled with over a million balls, with neon lights making this a grown-up’s playground paradise. The London Shuffle Club is another Shoreditch sight to see, where bright young things engage in the traditional old game of shuffleboard, cocktail in hand.
Love to shop
The original Boxpark opened in Shoreditch back in 2011 and the shipping container chic is still going strong. For a mix of Nordic-inspired clothing and homewares, head to Absence of Colour, or go to The Gift Box for cute and kitsch decorative accessories. Outside of Boxpark, interior designers are often seen in Aida for fabulous objet d’art and sustainable fashion, while fans of modern design form an orderly queue at SCP. For the ultra-creative among us, Cowling & Wilcox is Shoreditch’s art supply store - rammed to the rafters with paints, papers and pens.
For flowers and old style traders in full song head to Columbia Road flower market.
Love to eat
A sure-fire winner in Shoreditch is BiBo at The Mondrian – a Spanish kitchen serving authentic tapas. I’ll savour the oxtail brioche and padron peppers while admiring the luxury interior, before heading upstairs to Laurel’s On The Roof for a cocktail around the rooftop pool. A Japanese Garibaldi served in an authentic 1970s glass, anyone? If I’m in Shoreditch with friends, I’ll book us in for the feasting menu at Lahpet. It’s the best way to experience Burmese cuisine, with a menu so authentic you’ll think you're dining in Yangdon, Myanmar. For flying visits, you can’t go wrong with Wacka. Its breakfast and brunch options are ideal before an interior design meeting - Turkish eggs on sourdough toast or pistachio and pumpkin seed granola will hit the spot.
WALLPAPER: BACK ON THE INTERIOR DESIGN AGENDA
Wallpaper/Wallcoverings: back on the interior design agenda
How will Boris Johnson’s leadership be remembered? The outgoing Prime Minister will be most remembered for the interior make-over of No. 11 Downing Street – especially ‘that’ wallpaper!
Gold wallpaper, costing more than £800 a roll, was the talking point of a luxury interior design scheme at No. 11 reportedly costing more than £100,000. The lavish covering was specified by high end interior designer Lulu Lytle - the co-founder and director of Soane Britain. Her handcrafted paper was supposedly so heavy it started peeling off, needing specialist attention to remedy the issue.
While the funding of the Prime Minister’s renovation was the real scandal, the media frenzy did bring wallpaper firmly back into the luxury interiors spotlight. Wallpaper and wallcoverings can completely transform a space, with so many options that you can let your imagination run wild.
In our little black book here at Rudolph Diesel Interiors, we gravitate to a wonderful supplier, Arte International, who create the most sensational wallcoverings - bold, beautiful, striking and of excellent quality.
If, like the Johnsons, metallic wallpaper has caught your eye, you’re in luck. We think Arte International’s Metal X Stellar collection is a luxe addition to any interior design. We have used the oxidised metal-effect sheets in cloakrooms, living rooms and even bar areas – opt for the gold 37510 colourway for a more affordable alternative to Lulu Lytle’s wallpaper! We also adore Silk X for an opulent and timeless result. The subtle sheen of this metallic, textured wallcovering really elevated a West London office we had the pleasure of refurbishing.
If you’d like to incorporate more wallpaper into your home, book a consultation with us. Our interior design studio in London is a hive of wallpaper ideas and samples, and we can use CGI technology to illustrate how any room could look with an unlimited number of wallpapers choices on the walls.
INTERIOR DESIGN FOR SMALL HOUSES
Interior design for small houses
London is a beautiful city with amazing architecture and fascinating residential quarters. As well as grand, spacious townhouses, there are also plenty of what I like to call ‘bijou’ buildings. Some of the new homes - built to meet the ever-growing demand - can be described as compact.
It comes as no surprise that many people turn to interior design companies when they want to get the best interior design for a small house. The good news is small can be perfectly formed.
Some of the best interiors in London have been executed in modest spaces but it takes more than good fortune and a trip to Heals’ furniture department to find the right balance of practically functional and practically empty.
It may be stating the obvious but the right choice of paint is vital. Light-reflecting colours, such as White 01 from Lick, Warm Putty from Coat and Farrow & Ball’s Borrowed Light, are perfect for small rooms but you can go one step further than the walls.
Light colours are perfect for colour drenching – when you paint all the internal surfaces with the same shade – ceilings, metalwork, woodwork and plasterwork included. This gives the illusion of the walls receding and it’s a great trick for making radiators meld into the background.
Furniture placement is another big interior design consideration when you’re working with limited space. Our interior design studio in London uses space plans and CGIs to work out how much furniture a small house can handle. This forward planning also allows us to position items for the best flow and I’ll let you in on a trade secret – we may not push sofas back against the walls, even in tight spaces.
Sometimes we eschew freestanding furniture in smaller properties and follow the built-in path.
This carries the advantage of utilising high ceilings and alcoves - and always gives a room that luxury interior edge.
Furniture should also be positioned to ensure the maximum amount of natural light enters the property. A good interior designer will take windows and bifold doors into account when specifying items, avoiding anything too high, bulky or solid. Sight lines are another overlooked aspect when it comes to interior design, especially if the space is open plan. Again, CGIs are a great tool in preventing a property feeling cramped and blocked in.
There are a myriad of other tips and tricks luxury interior designers in London use when creating an interior design for a small house. Get in touch and we’ll explain how you should go big when it comes to rugs, why a picture rail may be your secret weapon and how mirrors can bring style to a small property.
WHY I LOVE MUSWELL HILL
WHY I LOVE MUSWELL HILL
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Ally Pally, or to use its formal name Alexandra Palace, is Muswell Hill’s iconic Grade II listed entertainment and sporting venue. Its 19th century Victorian façade is best known for the Rose Window – a stunning circular stained glass window. A walk around the grounds is a great way to appreciate this landmark. One of the best visual spectacles in Muswell Hill is, however, the view. The neighbourhood’s elevated position grants wonderful panoramas over the city, framed by the beautiful Edwardian red brick houses – many of which are the work of James Edmondson and William Jefferies Collins. Head to Hillfield Park or The Avenue for a prime snap-happy position.
Love to shop
If your luxury interior design is in need of some aesthetically appealing kitchen props, head to
WMartyn on Muswell Hill Broadway. This coffee roaster, tea merchant and purveyor of delicatessen goods groans under the weight of pretty caddies and canisters (and the chocolates are a divine treat to eat too). It’s a safe bet that Muswell Hill’s most luxurious home interiors sport a few items from Cosi Homewares and Misk – both on Fortis Green Road. I have my eye on some enamel jugs and textured house plant pots. For clothes, What Mother Made a few doors away is an exceptional concept. Every item is handmade and maintains a zero waste policy. If ethical clothes shopping is your thing, Boutique by Shelter is another must-visit. The store, designed by Wayne Hemingway, sells designer, high-end High Street and vintage one-off finds at fabulous prices.
Love to eat
Serving possibly the most Instagrammed brunches in London, Kiss the Koala has perfected the art of beautiful bowl food. Expect warm breakfast naans, Korean chicken waffles and hazelnut dukkah, among other tantalising delights. If you like your afternoon caffeine fix and cake alongside a quirky interior in London, head to Bob’s Café on The Broadway. My eye is always drawn to the fascinating combination of exposed brick, eclectic mirror collection and ceiling-suspended house plants. The Victoria Stakes is a popular gastropub where comedy and cocktails are often on the same menu – great for an after-work gathering - while if your carb of poison is pasta, head to Fasta Fresh Pasta Bar. Try the strozzapreti with a side of stuffed vine leaves for something satisfying.