INTERIOR DESIGN Georgian V Modern: where do you stand on how they work together?
It is generally accepted that you can introduce modern design into a traditionally Georgian environment, or you can introduce Georgian elements into a fantastically modern space. Some individuals want to strip the Georgian feel out of an interior but retain the Georgian exterior, while others will want to retain all the Georgian characteristics and restore the history of the building in a precise and exacting manner. In many senses when you live in a Georgian house you are ultimately the custodian of that space. In our Sion Hill project for example, we retained and enhanced the inherent Georgian features of the house but decorated it in a really contemporary manner so that it was fitting for a modern young family. What does your dream bathroom look like?
My dream bathroom is the bathroom that I don’t have to share with anyone! We have designed many bathrooms and have learnt some golden rules. I prefer a bathroom that has got sympathetic lighting, incredibly forgiving mirrors, perfect climate control, a large, powerful shower, hot towels, wide counter tops and good storage capacity. Ideally it has a great view and space for a comfortable piece of beautiful furniture. I am a huge fan of artwork or wallpaper in a bathroom, too. One of the best bathrooms that I have experienced is in Eastnor Castle in Malvern. They just got it so right. What about kitchen design? Are there any trends we should be on the lookout for?
Kitchen design has evolved from the room being a functional peripheral space, to the most important and sometimes largest room in the house. That is because people want to experiment with food and they want to be able to experience eating together and to commune in the kitchen as much as possible. In the last few years kitchen design has become less standardised and more characterful – customers are now able to personalise their kitchens as they never have before.
above: Verity takes visual references from a range of sources; left: Artwork lifts the spirits
Are there any designers whose work you have been particularly influenced by?
WOOLF was conceived somewhere between Carlo Scarpa’s detailed innovative use of materials and John Minshaw’s harmonious design of contemporary interiors in a period setting. They were designers who specialised in ‘Interior Architecture’ and whom I could consider our predecessors. Over the years we have looked at designers outside of the UK in America, Australia, North Africa, the Middle East and in Russia, where we have also worked. I think you can take your visual references from a plethora of sources. What inspires you?
I am inspired most by working collaboratively. WOOLF was set up more as a studio collective and less as a design practice based upon my own signature style. The most inspiring work that we have done has been when we have collaborated with amazing architects, consultants, artists and the incredibly talented individuals who work in our studios. Craftsmen across the UK and indeed globally, who are immersed in their own specialism are inspiring in the work that they produce for us. Inspirations can be derived from all around us. In Bath, the architecture of the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian era is intriguing, particularly when we consider the history of the buildings and how they have changed use over time. For more: WOOLF Interior, Architecture & Design Broome House, Upper Lansdown Mews, Bath; tel: 01225 445670; www.woolfinterior.com Got an amazing local home? Want it to feature in Residence? Contact lydia.tewkesbury@mediaclash.co.uk
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