WHY I LOVE ISLINGTON
WHY I LOVE ISLINGTON
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Islington has long been the focus for cutting-edge design and the heartbeat is the Business Design Centre. Regular events and exhibitions see the world’s leading textile, art, graphic and homeware designers trend-set for the years ahead. A permanent design feature that is unmistakably Islington is Everyman’s Screen on the Green – a retro cinema with an iconic illuminated façade. Catch a film while enjoying cocktails, pizzas and sharing plates. Not to be missed is Islington Square – a collection of shops, dining experiences and social opportunities at the more independent end of the leisure spectrum. Highlights include a meta gaming arena, the Omnom wellness hub, theatre spaces and a subterranean six-screen cinema.
Love to shop
Any self-respecting interior designer will put aside at least an hour to visit the Abigail Ahern shop on Islington’s Essex Road. The in-store range spans faux botanicals, furniture, paint, wall art, soft furnishings, accessories and lighting. Aria’s One Six Eight showroom on Upper Street is another must visit. As well as products for every room and the most coveted brands - including Saba, Ligne Roset, Jonathan Adler and Ercol - Aria has a beautifully-curated selection of clothes, watches and gifts. If your shopping habits lean more towards the larder, then stop by The Passage Pantry. Here the shelves groan with spices, sauces, oils and even biodynamic wines.
Love to eat
Ottolenghi in Islington never disappoints on the food - and aesthetic – front. The luxury interior of the venue has even been documented by Design Week. Expect to be seated at long communal tables with modern, sculpted plastic chairs. Fresh pasta is one of the ultimate comfort foods and if I need a bowl of Genovese ragu or brown shrimp and ricotta ravioli, I head to Noci near Angel Tube station. As well as silken pasta, there’s Sicilian street food-inspired snacks and cocktails on tap. Staying in Europe but infused with completely different flavours is Kipferl – an Austrian restaurant and patisserie. It’s a cliché but go there and feast on wiener schnitzel and sachertorte, washed down with a glass of Grüner Veltliner.
WHY I LOVE BLACKHEATH
WHY I LOVE BLACKHEATH
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
The Ranger’s House is a real spectacle, located where Blackheath Common joins Greenwich Park. This gorgeous Georgian villa is home to The Wernher Collection – a world-class display of more than 700 pieces of art, including Dutch Old Masters and French tapestries. Another historic building is Blackheath Halls – a grade II listed cultural hub that plays host to orchestras, ensembles, artists and comedians. Visitors shouldn’t overlook the heath itself. This open expanse offers ideal conditions for kite flying and there’s even an annual Kite Day, when Blackheath’s sky is filled with colourful sails. At other times of the year, you’ll find circuses, fairgrounds and music festivals set up on the 250 acres of heathland.
Love to shop
Blackheath Village is a cluster of shops that create a real retail buzz. As a luxury interior designer, I’ll always stop by the village’s branch of Fired Earth. Of particular interest will be the freestanding baths and the highly-decorative tiles. As Blackheath is brimming with period properties, it’s no surprise that Farrow & Ball has a branch in the village. If you are interior decorating in London, this is where to collect your tins of Railings and Slipper Satin. Behind the unmistakable yellow façade on Montpelier Vale is Blackheath Creatives Pop Up. No two shopping experiences are the same, with a heady mix of original art, jewellery, vintage clothes, prints, toys and gifts.
Love to eat
Zero Degrees has been a Blackheath institution for decades. Its onsite microbrewery provides the taps with a dazzling selection of unique beers (Czech Pilsners and American Pale ales are on the list), while there’s ample table space for a full menu to be served seven days a week. The aromas wafting out of Boulangerie Jade always prove tempting, and I often find myself inside ordering French toast, avocado tartine or eggs benedict. My carb intake is not helped by the fact there are three branches of the French-inspired bakery in Blackheath – at 48 Vanbrugh Park, 44 Tranquil Vale and 28a Blackheath Village. Some of the best commercial design luxury can be seen at Copper & Ink. This restaurant has a huge biophilic ceiling installation, stunning artwork and open kitchen – all designed to keep you occupied while you await your mouth-watering meal.
NARROW HALLWAYS
How to tackle a narrow hallway
The definition of a hallway is a passage that links one space or room to another. Traditionally, hallways were not designed as places to linger or dwell and are usually narrow as a result, often lacking in natural light.
With a little imagination and creativity, narrow hallways can actually contribute to a designer interior. If your hallway is dark as well as narrow, the simplest antidote is to use a light paint colour across all surfaces, including the woodwork and the ceiling. Farrow & Ball’s Cornforth or Paint & Paper Library’s Fuji are perfect shades, as they reflect any light and appear to push the walls outwards, rather than draw them closer.
You could try giving the illusion of more hallway width by using a dado rail to separate the walls into two sections. Painting a darker colour at the bottom and a lighter colour above works especially well if you can incorporate the wall at the end of a hallway.
While interior designers love to add interest with pattern, a narrow hallway is one place we would advise against it. Busy wallpaper can make a narrow hallway feel more enclosed than it actually is, so opt for something plain.
Don’t forget what you put on the floor also matters. A heavily-patterned carpet can make a hallway feel gloomy, while a runner will only serve to elongate thin, narrow proportions.
While tempting to avoid furniture in a narrow hallway, a few key items will stop the space feeling like a hotel corridor. Opt for shallow console tables and low benches that don’t feel too blocky or bulky. Look for slimline proportions, elegant spindle legs and open framework designs.
When property styling, mirrors are always a useful design tool. When faced with a narrow hallway, I recommend a large mirror is hung close to the largest source of natural light – be that a front door or a first floor window. The light amplification and reflection will help open up the space.
Finally, and perhaps most simply, the illusion of a wider hallway can be created by keeping room doors open so glimpses of bigger spaces are seen. Failing that, solid internal doors can be replaced with fully- or partially-glazed versions so there is an impression of depth even when the doors are shut.
WHY I LOVE LITTLE VENICE
WHY I LOVE LITTLE VENICE
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Looking for Instagram-able content? Look no further than Little Venice. It’s a pretty enclave of Maida Vale, perched on the banks of the Regent’s Canal. Alight at Warwick Avenue Tube station and you’ll soon find yourself flanked by houseboats – immaculately painted, groaning with flower pots and housing some of the most creative yet luxurious interiors in London. Follow the tow path to Camden, taking in the tranquil nature of the area and the imposing Regency properties beyond. Keep a look out for Browning’s Island – a small wildlife-filled islet named after the famous poet who lived nearby – and for the Puppet Barge, which seasonally mores up in Little Venice with its programme of puppetry, cabaret and comedy.
Love to shop
No matter how long my meeting in Little Venice, I always make time for a trip to Clifton Nurseries. One of the highlights is the amazing glasshouse, which brims with lush plants and eye-catching pots. The café is open seven days a week for lunch, brunch, cakes and coffees, served alongside a healthy dose of biophilic design. You can easily cater for a sumptuous supper or a full-on dinner party in Little Venice. The Winery is loved by locals for its expertly curated selection of tipples, while the great and the good stock up at Clifton Greens – lauded by chef Yotam Ottolenghi as his favourite greengrocers of all time in London. Your last two stops should be the Provenance Butcher & Deli and Formosa Flowers & Chocolatier.
Love to eat
Don’t be fooled by Café Laville's inconspicuous roadside exterior. Step inside this traditional Italian restaurant and a light-filled venue opens up, sitting directly above the Regent’s Canal for unbeatable riverside views. The black-framed floor-to-ceiling glazing and glass lanterns form a high end interior design but the best spot? That’s outside on the balcony. Just as amazing is the Waterside Café, known for its amazing breakfasts. Board the barge to place your order, then find a table on the outside terrace or within the boat itself! Away from the canal, try Maguro for fresh sushi, The Summerhouse for seafood and Venice London for sweet treats and a Miami-vibe luxury interior design.
ADDING VALUE TO YOUR HOME
How to add value to your home?
Everyone wants their home to be as valuable as possible but that can be hard to achieve when property prices start cooling. Homeowners looking to improve their home’s value – perhaps ahead of a sale – don’t have to rely on the market. Instead, they can make improvements that will increase the property’s appeal and boost the chances of attractive offers.
Energy efficiency can fire up your home’s value
How much carbon a property produces and how low the fuel bills are has become a priority among movers. As a result, homes with the best EPC ratings are worth more than their less efficient counterparts. It’s a phenomenon recently crowned by Rightmove as the ‘green premium’. The portal found a home whose EPC had improved from a D to a C could see an increase in value of +3%, while a home whose EPC had risen from F to C could increase in value by as much as +15%. A separate study by BOXT found solar panels alone could lift a property’s value by up to +13%.
Cash in when it’s clean and clutter-free
According to research by the House Buyer Bureau, an untidy, messy or dirty house can knock -4% off a home’s value. Additionally, pet damage or odours can reduce a property’s value by -3.9%. Value is added when a potential buyer walks through the door and feels the space is bright, airy, open and fresh smelling. Less is definitely more when you’re property styling, so lose the knick-knacks, light a naturally-fragranced candle and perform a deep clean.
Kerb appeal is king
Having an overgrown garden could knock -14% off a home’s value, according to the House Buyer Bureau, so a mow, weed, prune and tidy is a small price to pay to ensure a property reaches its full value potential. A freshly painted front door is always a winner and what colour you choose could affect your home’s value. A study by Safestyle found properties with red front doors can see their value increase by approximately +36%, while homes with grey front doors can sell for +20% more than the national average. Black (+11%) and blue (+2%) are other smart paint choices.
Planning permission in place is a winner
Although it’s not a tangible home improvement, having planning permission in place for an extension or alteration can boost a home’s value. In fact, property expert Phil Spencer divulged to This Is Money that applying and gaining planning permission – but not undertaking the work - can increase a property’s value by +10% and can help it sell more quickly. Rudolph Diesel Interiors can create interior design CGIs to bring any plans to life and highlight tantalising potential.
Alternative ways to add value
There has been extensive research into the home improvements that add the most value. Here are the most common, together with their potential value boost, according to the Post Office:
Garden landscaping - up to +77% in added value
Home gym - up to +44% in added value
Extension - up to +37% in added value
Walk-in wardrobe - up to +34% in added value
Jacuzzi/hot tub - up to +27% in added value
Well fitted new kitchen – up to +26% in added value
Basement conversion - up to +17% in added value
Conservatory - up to +10% in added value
New driveway - up to +9% in added value
Wet room - up to +7% in added value
HOW TO GET YOUR HOME AND GARDEN READY FOR AUTUMN
How to get your home and garden ready for autumn
Summer always feels like the shortest season of all and around mid-August, thoughts turn to a new academic year starting, and the inevitable mists and mellow fruitfulness that follows. The changing season and shorter daylight hours is also a reminder of jobs to undertake around your home and garden to get ready for autumn.
Gardens: autumn is a time for preparation. The soil will still be warm, therefore it’s the ideal
time to move plants and divide perennials. You can also prune shrubs that have flowered, apply mulch to beds for added cold-weather protection, dig in horticultural grit to improve drainage, and lay an irrigation system as your flora dies back and enters into its dormant period.
Exteriors: prevention is definitely better than cure, so now is the time to prepare for inclement weather. Fence panels can be problematic during storms, so check their condition now, replacing, repairing or simply repainting if they’re looking a little sun bleached. Roofs are another place to concentrate your efforts. Look for missing or broken tiles before the seasons change, and remove any moss that’s built up. Ditto drain pipes and guttering – use the last of the fine weather to clear out and secure.
Energy efficiency: we’re all acutely aware of how much it costs to heat and power our homes, so use this time while it’s still warm to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Add extra loft insulation, investigate solar panels and heat pumps, book a boiler service, draught proof windows and doors, and install a smart energy meter.
If you have older white goods and kitchen appliances, check their energy rating. It may be more efficient in the long run to replace them with more energy and water-efficient models. The most efficient appliances are A+++ rated, with G being the worst. Don’t forget you can improve your home’s thermal efficiency by switching to thick, insulating curtains – a good interior designer will steer you in the direction of some truly opulent examples.
Interiors: as the nights draw in and temperatures cool, we find we’re spending more time back inside. Autumn is a great season to redecorate. Perhaps set aside a wet weekend to repaint one room, install wood panelling or wallpaper a cloakroom. If you have an open fire, it’s also wise to get the chimney swept before you light the first fire of the season.
If you’re hoping for a totally new look for autumn, now is the time to consult with an interior design studio in London and plan a new, luxury interior design. Rudolph Diesel can assist with space planning, CGI artwork, specification, structural changes and aesthetic revamps.
WHY I LOVE TOOTING
WHY I LOVE TOOTING
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
Tooting Bec Lido is one of the oldest and largest open-air swimming pools in the UK, dating back to 1906 and enjoying a Grade II listing. This Art Deco facility has been extensively improved since opening as a bathing lake, with a pavilion, café, showers, a sunbathing area and colourful changing cubicles added over the years. The lido is set to reopen in late 2024 after the latest set of improvement works is completed. Tooting Bec Common is another area highlight. The focal point is a beautiful lake – grab a coffee from the on-site café and take a stroll. If you’re feeling active, you can book one of the Common’s tennis courts. Luxurious interiors and bingo are not common bedfellows but it’s quite a different story in Tooting. The current Buzz Bingo is actually the former Granada cinema and music hall. The ornate interior was created by Russian stage set designer, Theodore Komisarjevsky, and earned the building Grade I listed status. The lavish design remains intact but if bingo isn’t your thing, the venue is sometimes included in the Open House Weekend initiative.
Love to shop
Cycle Culture ticks so many boxes but I’ve included this venue in the shopping section. It’s an indoor cycle studio and a coffee shop with a cool Scandi luxury interior design but its holistic approach to living means the owners have also added an in-house plant shop. Drop in and buy your next dragon plant! Tooting has not one but two indoor markets and they have allowed weird, wonderful and less mainstream businesses to thrive. Find specialist record stalls, an art gallery, haberdashery stockists and a myriad of pop-up street food stalls at Broadway Market and Tooting Market.
Love to eat
The interior designer has done a fantastic job at The Little Taperia on Tooting High Street, replicating the feel of an authentic Spanish tapas bar. Expect to eat delicious small dishes sitting on stools at a long bar. Daddy Bao is another great Tooting spot for light bites and unusual cocktails. The prized seats are set around the bespoke golden bar – don’t be surprised if you’re sitting next to an interior designer who’s eyeing up the pretty lanterns with a Japanese Slipper in hand. At the other end of the spectrum is the beautiful simplicity of Rick’s Dining Room – owned and run by Rick Gibbs, former Head Chef at the Chelsea Arts Club. Head here for modern European cuisine and the best fish dishes in town.
USE BRICK SLIPS FOR A SUBLIME ILLUSION
Use brick slips for a sublime illusion
Some of the most luxurious interior design details have centred around deceiving the eye. You only have to look at the Greeks and Romans for their love of trompe-l'œil, with the artist Zeuxis reportedly painting a bunch of grapes so realistic that birds tried to peck at the fruit.
Interior designers still use optical illusions today, deploying horizontal stripes to give a narrow room the impression of more width and painting high ceilings in dark colours to make the room feel more cosy. Another favourite is to use brick slips to give the appearance of a full-scale original brick wall.
Brick is firmly back in fashion. The 1990s saw us embrace urban loft living – an aesthetic that has become an enduring classic - with the raw brick walls of former warehouses left exposed to create internal focal points. Now homeowners are stripping back their exteriors to reveal the original brickwork that was previously covered by monstrosities such as stone cladding and pebble dashing.
No one mentions, however, the time, hard work and investment needed to restore brickwork back to its original state - it’s not for the faint hearted. Thankfully there is a convenient option for those who crave the warm, tactile and earthy aura of exposed brickwork – and for those whose homes are of a different construction inside and out.
Brick slips are slivers of real brick but thinner, lighter and cheaper than the full-size building material. They are applied to surfaces as if they were tiles, using adhesive but with pointing mortar instead of grout for an authentic finish.
Brick slips are sold in two formats. Those that are sold as individual slips give the best illusion of a real brick wall, and are available in the widest choice of colours and tonal variations. Suppliers even replicate some of London’s best loved brick stock, with Belgravia, Knightsbridge, Camden, Bayswater and Lambeth examples available alongside the classic Victorian and London reclaimed stock.
There’s also the option of slips sets, which feature up to 20 brick slips that are already laid out in a classic brickwork formation and are attached to a single piece of webbing. This is a cheaper and quicker way of covering a surface in brick slips but it can suffer from a lack of unique detail.
The beauty of brick slips is being able to use them on external walls as well as those inside the home. Slips are a great way of cladding a new extension to match an existing, period building or ensuring a garden room of modern construction mirrors the main house.
An alternative to brick slips are faux brick panels. These are lightweight, have excellent insulation and acoustic properties, and are non-permeable. Each panel can cover an area roughly one metre square, and is made of polyurethane and stone for a tactile finish - and even that cold-to-the-touch aspect of real brick.
Our interior design studio in London would be delighted to illustrate how brick slips can be used as part of a wider property refurbishment. Please contact us to explore some ideas.
WHY I LOVE BALHAM
WHY I LOVE BALHAM
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
In all the years I have been writing about local areas, I have never recommended readers visit a swimming pool but there’s always a first! Ensconced in the more modern Balham Leisure Centre is a pool that dates back to 1914. The owners have resisted the urge to modernise, and you can admire the vaulted ceiling and decorative metal supports as you perform your backstroke. If that sounds too strenuous, make your way to The Exhibit – a social hub that crams in five bars, four private rooms, a cinema, a karaoke room and a secret garden. What unites each space is a luxurious interior design – a place where Miami vibes and Art Deco meet urban luxe.
Love to shop
Balham has retained a neighbourhood feel, resisting the cloned High Street aesthetic. This has allowed independent and unusual shops to flourish, including Lark. Head inside for a homewares section bursting with cushions, candles and all manner of curiosities. Postmark is another small, family run business. It sells beautiful greeting cards, wrapping paper and stationery so you can mark life’s milestones in style. If it’s food you’re after, Balham Farmers’ Market is a weekly affair, held every Saturday at Henry Cavendish Primary School. Browse the stalls for store cupboard staples and supper ingredients, with produce including raw milk, cheese, game, honey and charcuterie on sale.
Love to eat
Brunch in Balham is big news and Milk café is where the locals head. As a result, you can sometimes wait around 20 minutes for a seat at the weekend but it’s worth it. Choose from wholesome eggs, bread and bakes, as well as excellent coffees, teas and a seasonal fruit kombucha. Balham Bowls Club is one of the quirkiest places to grab lunch. This social club and restaurant’s interior designer plumped for ‘granny chic’, with lashings of floral carpets, flock wallpaper, fringed lampshades and vintage crockery. Megan’s On The Hill is a favourite for late lunches and light dinners. The emphasis is on sharing boards, tapas and mezze, and there are rave reviews about the Ferrero Rocher iced coffee – a great way to end a meal. Don’t forget to look up when you’re at Megan’s as there’s stunning pieces of suspended ceiling art.
DOORS ON DRAWERS
Is it better to have doors or drawers in a kitchen?
Your kitchen’s door and draw combination may never cross your mind but if you’ve inherited badly-planned cabinetry, you may be cursing the set up on a daily basis.
A brand new kitchen provides the fresh start many need and an interior designer should be called in to answer one of the most important questions: is it better to have doors or drawers in a kitchen? Interior design companies in London should start with a lifestyle questionnaire before a single door or drawer is discussed.
It is imperative to know who uses the kitchen the most, how frequently – and seriously – they cook, what appliances need accommodating and whether there’s any scope to steal space from another room or even extend. Once all the above has been established, the kitchen planning can start.
Doors
Doors and cupboards go hand-in-hand. Cupboards are useful as they yield larger volumes of practical space and are ideal for the storage of bulky appliances, such as bread mixers, ice cream makers and food processors. The space can also be divided on a bespoke base by adding shelves at various heights within the cupboard.
If you have a peninsular island or corner unit, a two-tier, pull-out shelving unit that reaches right back into the void will allow you to utilise dead space. Doors will make accessing the aforementioned as easy as possible.
Bear in mind practicalities. Wall mounted cupboards with doors may be harder to reach for the more vertically challenged, while it won’t be practical to store large, heavy items above head height. Conversely, your back will not forgive you if your most commonly used kitchen items are at the back of base units. An interior designer will run through all these aspects with you, and will also consider elements such as door clearance and instances where open doors may clash.
Drawers
Shallow drawers are essential for the storage of cutlery and utensils. Add custom-made inserts and you’ll have wonderfully organised spaces every day. Shallow drawers also lend themselves to bespoke spice jar storage – ask for a tiered rack to be made to fit your favourite Bart herbs and seasonings.
Deep drawers are best saved for the lowest part of your kitchen. Specific pan drawers are a sensible addition under a hob, while heavy duty crockery drawers are a practical addition below a serving area. What I particularly love about deep drawers is the ability to add a hidden draw – a draw within a draw – which can virtually double storage.
The hybrids
A good luxury interior designer will be able to provide solutions to many of today’s kitchen storage problems. If you love the capacity of a cupboard but want the accessibility of a drawer, I’d urge the client to consider Haefele drawers. These are very deep drawers set in a cupboard, with a door on the front – a must if you crave design continuity.
A pull-out larder cupboard is another alternative I recommend, especially if you have space that’s taller than it is wider. The aesthetic is a slim door from the outside but you pull a handle to reveal a series of shelves or wire baskets within, which lend themselves to the storage of bottles, oils, vinegars, dry goods and larder staples.
Of course, a high end interior design will feature soft close drawers and doors, as well as handmade cabinetry and exquisite handles for the most flawless finish. If you would like help deciding between doors and drawers – and planning an entire new kitchen – please contact Rudolph Diesel Interiors.
WHY I LOVE KINGSTON
WHY I LOVE KINGSTON
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
It’s said the Kingston stretch of the River Thames is one of the prettiest and a walk along the riverside promenade is a great way to admire the view. You can cross over Kingston Bridge to Hampton Wick, or board one of Turk’s fabulous boats for a scenic sail downstream. Kingston also has another famous bridge – the 12th-century Clattern Bridge. Thought to be the oldest surviving bridge in Surrey and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, it’s a fascinating part of this medieval town’s history. Why not cross Clattern Bridge on your way to see the gilded statue of Queen Anne at Market House? With memories of the King’s coronation still fresh in our minds, a visit to Kingston’s Grade I listed coronation stone also feels fitting. It’s said to be the site of the coronation of seven Anglo-Saxon Kings.
Love to shop
Kingston’s Bentall Centre is packed full of High Street brands and independent stores, with John Lewis and Marks & Spencer providing reassuringly familiar retail experiences. Despite the amazing choice, I head straight to King Living for its refreshing style of Australian furniture and home design luxury. I also nip into the ProCook shop for kitchen finishing touches – especially its tableware. Kingston Market runs seven days a week, so you’ll never be disappointed. As well as street food stalls infusing the air with mouth-watering aromas, there’s Zoe’s Flowers, Webster’s Fishmongers, a greengrocer and a baker for take-home goodies.
Love to eat
Bavarian food doesn’t get the credit it deserves, so Stein’s is always on my go-to list when in Kingston. Sample schnitzel, goulash, fondue and wild boar ragout, finished with a Black Forest bomb and washed down with a bottle of Erdinger or a glass of Riesling. As with many restaurants in Kingston, Haché Brasserie includes an outside terrace with River Thames views. It’s the perfect place for brunch, with the egg menu served until late. Try the truffle panko mushroom benedict or the full Parisian. Also with waterside views is Chakra. Its luxurious interior design really breaks the Indian restaurant mould – think contemporary banquette seating, a statement bar and feature lighting.
MAXIMISE SPACE UNDER STAIRS
Maximise space under stairs
There are some design flaws that are so frustrating that you wonder how they occurred in the first place. My case in point is that space under the stairs – a dark cavity that is usually boarded over - is completely wasted.
Thankfully, some clever trades have fathomed that this void can be brought back into life and, with a little help from a London interior design studio, you can gain a valuable asset. Here are the answers to the most common questions I’m asked about maximising space under the stairs
Q. Can I open up the space under my stairs?
A. If your void is boarded over, you’ll need a builder or carpenter to ascertain how your stairs are constructed, how easy the access would be, how structurally sound the space is and whether there’s anything stopping the void being utilised, such as damp, the placement of a stopcock valve or a structural element.
Q. Can I create a cloakroom in the space under my stairs?
A. As well as a builder, you may need an architect to answer this question. Together, they’ll be able to establish whether there’s enough head room, whether plumbing is already in place (or could be run to the location) and whether any permissions are required (planning is not normally needed but you may have to notify Building Control).
Q. Can I add pull-out storage to my under stairs space?
A. Hallways are clutter magnets, so many of my clients are keen to utilise the space under their stairs for shoe storage. Soft close drawers on runners are incredibly practical but are best when bespoke and made to fit the space. If the pitch of the stairs allows, it may even be possible to fit a pull-out coat rail.
Q. I’ve seen a wine cellar under the stairs, how easy is this to achieve?
A. For a very luxurious interior design, you could fit a wine cellar under your stairs.
Some of the very best are internally-illuminated with glass-fronted doors, so the bottle collection becomes a focal point. You’ll have to bear in mind the temperature and humidity conditions in situ and for this reason, a professional installation is recommended.
Q. Would a desk fit under my stairs?
A. With many of us working remotely for at least part of the week, the home desk is still an essential set up. The space under the stairs can be utilised if there isn’t a separate study. The slope and space dimensions will dictate whether a ready-made or custom-built desk will fit, and it may be possible to add some shelves too. Lights, wifi access and power points are a must, however, so involve an electrician in the planning stage.
Q. My under stairs space is quite small but I don’t want to waste it – what are my options?
A. If the void is simply covered by plasterboard, it should be possible to at least swap the board for doors so you can access the space for storage. Alternatively, the board can be removed and some bespoke, open shelving added.
Q. What are the most unusual ideas for under the stairs?
A. There is a real niche (excuse the pun) for creative under stairs options from homeowners who hate to see the space go to waste. It’s possible to create a utility cupboard for a washing machine and dryer, a reading nook, complete with lights and a bookshelf, and even a pet retreat with bed and a door.
If you would like help with planning an under stairs remodel, including coordinating trades and interior design, please contact Rudolph Diesel Interiors.
WHY I LOVE WIMBLEDON
WHY I LOVE WIMBLEDON
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
Despite being held at The All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club, sport’s most loved tennis championship is eponymous, simply known the world over as Wimbledon. The venue is a sight to behold, with more than 40 courts, three croquet lawns and its distinctive dark green and purple livery — installed in 1909 following the discovery that the Club’s previous colour combination of blue, yellow, red and green was almost identical to that of the Royal Marines. Wimbledon and Putney Commons consist of 1,140 acres of open space and while you may not spot the elusive wombles, you will encounter ponds, woodlands, brooks, grasslands, a golf course and even a Grade II windmill, which is worth a look when lit up at night.
Love to shop
George’s Dog Boutique is where pooches are pampered. As well as being a spa-like grooming parlour, it sells the most stylish dog accessories you’ll ever see and the luxury interiors are so chi chi that the shop is often used for filming. The original Bayley & Sage deli is still operating in Wimbledon Village and it’s easy to lose track inside, marvelling at the selection of charcuteries, cheeses and fresh produce. Interior designers looking for kitchen inspiration can frequently be found at Life – a two-floor showroom brimming with everything from walk-in pantries to wine bars. Find me in the sample and colour area.
Love to eat
Demitasse has one of the sleekest high end interior designs I’ve ever seen in a coffee shop – I’m especially drawn to the curved lines of the serving counter, with its timber detail and space-age looking machines – perfect for its signature ‘pour over’ coffee method. If an interior design consultation coincides with lunch, The Fox & Grapes on the edge of Wimbledon Common is a good bet. It’s a step up from a gastropub, with an amazing à la carte menu. If I’m organised, I’ll book a supper table at Vallebona – a secret wine bar in Wimbledon Village that serves produce from its associated deli store. The sharing boards, washed down with a negroni or crisp Gavi di Gavi are hard to beat - especially if consumed by the venue’s signature candlelight.
STYLING A MANTELPIECE
Styling a mantelpiece
A mantelpiece can be a masterful focal point and in this article we discuss what goes on it, above it, under it and even what to do if you don’t have one to start with.
The mantelpiece is an omnipresent interior design facet, evolving from a practical smoke-catching necessity in Medieval times to a Victorian aesthetic obsession. First merely a shelf-style hood and later encompassing highly decorative surrounds, the mantelpiece has taken on shrine-like significance – a place to display cherished photographs, cards and items.
When it comes to luxury interior design, it’s amazing how such a small space can have profound significance. Today, interior designers regard the mantelpiece as a pivotal design feature and it remains a way for clients to express their taste.
When incorporating an existing mantelpiece into a scheme, an interior designer will always perform a site survey. They’ll ask if there is a working fire and if so, what fuel does it use, how the mantelpiece is fixed to the wall and what will go above it.
Television screens and log burners, open fires or gas stoves generally don’t mix due to the heat output from the fire and the operation of the screen. In addition, the height above a mantel isn’t optimum for viewing, so we advise clients to locate their screen elsewhere. A mirror or painting mounted above a mantelpiece is a far better option.
The mantel itself is where we can get creative and the theme can change in line with the seasons. Real or good-quality faux foliage, intertwined with seasonal berries and twigs, can be used in the art of mantelscaping – where picture-perfect vignettes are created through artfully arranged decorations.
One classic mantel theme is monochrome. An assortment of framed black and white photos as well as prints - propped up along the shelf - can be stunning. Alternatively, a series of vases filled with fresh blooms can make a visual and olfactory statement.
While tempting to place one central item in the middle – such as a mantel clock – and create a mirror image on either side, luxury interior design can involve the rule of three, when trios of certain items are grouped together. When it comes to a mantelpiece arrangement, this could be three bud vases, three figurines or three candles.
A word of warning on the latter. Candles have long been used on mantelpieces but they should be done so with caution. Placed within a tea light holder, lantern or hurricane vase is safest, and a candle should never burn unattended. In addition, a candle placed too close to the wall may leave soot marks and they should be extinguished using a snuffer, not blown out.
If you have inherited a mantelpiece and it’s the right style but not the right finish, it may need a make-over. Old cast iron fireplaces can be obscured by layers of paint but this can be stripped away using a chemical such as Nitromors. Wooden mantelpieces may simply need a sand and repaint.
For those who yearn for a mantel but have moved into a property devoid of such a feature, buying either a plaster mantel and placing it in your desired room, or installing a bio ethanol fire kit, which does not need a chimney or flue and comes compete with a mantelpiece, is a solution. At the most base level, a rustic sleeper can be installed at mantel-height to provide a shelf to dress.
Ask Rudolph Diesel to create a new or improved mantelpiece in your home. Our interior design studio in London can also oversee any structural work needed to open up a fireplace, create a chimney breast or install a fire.
WHY I LOVE BEACONSFIELD
WHY I LOVE BEACONSFIELD
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, it’s out with the Oyster card and in with the M40, as he heads to the beautiful Buckinghamshire town of Beaconsfield.
Love to look at
While I can freely admire from the road, I’d love to see the luxury interiors that fill the wonderful collection of 1960s homes in the Hampden Hill enclave of Beaconsfield. Twenty nine houses were tailored to this exact location by Modernist architect Mary Christian Hamp, and their significance led to the neighbourhood being granted Conservation Area status. Every now and then one comes up for sale, so keep your eyes peeled. Head to Beaconsfield New Town, Jordans or the desirable ‘Golden Triangle’ between Burkes Road and Gregories Road, and you’ll find properties of a quite different character – mega mansions with swimming pools, sweeping staircases and cinema rooms.
Love to shop
Interior designers can’t resist a fabric swatch so dropping into Hearne’s to browse Colefax & Fowler and Linwood upholstery is always part of a day in Beaconsfield. Once I’ve had my fabric fix, I might pop into the Eye Like Gallery, where original pieces and limited edition prints can be bought on the spot. And who can resist a bunch of fresh blooms? The Secret Garden is an amazing Beaconsfield florist specialising in hand-tied bouquets. It also creates show-stopping tablescapes and can make potted arrangements.
Love to eat
If I’m planning ahead, I’ll reserve a table at Riwaz by Atul Kochhar. As well as divinely decadent food, I’ll be surrounded by high end interior designs that have been influenced by the Art Deco villas of Bandra and Mumbai from 1930-50. Another culinary legend is also at work in Beaconsfield. Brasserie Blanc carries menus devised by Raymond Blanc and the décor is as exquisite as the food – look out for suspended biophilic installations and feature lighting. For all-out opulence, however, a Thai meal and cocktails at the Crazy Bear are a must. It’s an explosion of colour and texture – with glittering chandeliers, an outdoor swimming pool and deeply-padded, private booths.
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.