How To Recreate A Cool & Contemporary Bedroom In A Period Property
How would you describe this room?
The scheme is restful, layered and atmospheric. A palette of blues and greens gives it a calm atmosphere, as I’d want a bedroom to be, but the heavy stonewash linen and textured floor adds depth and softness. The colours relate tonally, and I used only a very small amount of contrast in the headboard (the only pattern in the room), which is just to ‘lift’ the scheme with all the solid fabrics. It relies on textures rather than contrast and pattern, which creates a cohesive scheme that never feels jarring. The furniture and lighting selection is a mix of antique and vintage pieces, alongside bespoke furniture inspired by historical designs.
What was the starting point?
The starting point was a clear vision for pale blues and soft greens that would flow seamlessly throughout the bedroom, dressing room and bathroom beyond. Early in the process, we discovered a beautiful marble slab for the bathroom that sat perfectly within this scheme, confirming we were heading in the right direction. I wanted the space to feel restful but not stark or overly bright. The wall colour is a favourite – it’s not quite blue, not quite green and not quite grey. It’s a shade you feel immersed in, rather than instantly notice. Given the generous proportions of the room, we also knew it could comfortably accommodate a four-poster bed. That brought in more soft drapery adding fullness to the large room, and we began designing a bespoke wrought iron frame, something that turned out to be far more complex than it looks.
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What inspired the colour palette and material choices?
The palette was partly inspired by the historic houses of Spitalfields, with rustic textures and where deep, rich tones were often used to highlight architectural features like window frames. We took a similar approach, choosing contrasting paint colours to draw attention to the beautifully detailed windows. The braided jute flooring adds a layer of texture and warmth, helping to ground the space and bring everything together.
What's the secret to successfully furnishing a period property without it looking too traditional?
For me, it’s all about balance. I always begin by respecting the architecture – restoring the period details faithfully and with care. But when it comes to furnishing, it’s about layering elements that both complement and contrast. Some pieces should anchor the design in its setting, while others should be playful or unexpected, like placing a Japanese bathtub in front of a Shaker-panelled wall, as I did in one project. In homes with traditional art and antique furniture, I tend to use relaxed, neutral fabrics to add freshness and modernity. In other cases, I might lean into rich, patterned textiles but balance them with more contemporary lighting and furniture. It’s this mix that creates a timeless feel, something that evolves naturally, feels collected rather than curated, and can grow with you over time.
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