Houghton on the Hill

Versatile Modern Living Room

A contemporary family-friendly room of two halves

The brief

The brief for this project was to transform a tired, underperforming living room into a space that balanced family-friendly comfort with grown-up sophistication. The room no longer suited the needs of everyday life and had become disconnected from the rest of the home.

The goal was clear: create a versatile, stylish living room that would feel warm and practical for time spent together, while also offering a calm, elegant space for winding down. A refined, contemporary feel was key, anchored by durable materials, tactile finishes, and thoughtful layout design.

Our solution

We began by unlocking the full potential of the room’s L-shaped footprint. An existing door was bricked up to improve the layout and maximise usable wall space, allowing us to define two distinct zones, each with its own function and personality.

The first became a relaxed area for everyday living, centred around a sofa and television. The second was designed as a quieter retreat—ideal for reading by the fire or enjoying peaceful moments at the end of the day. These spaces flow effortlessly, offering flexibility without compromise.

To bring depth and warmth, we layered rich textures and natural finishes. A black American walnut fireplace was a striking focal point, while oak herringbone flooring added heritage detail underfoot. A treasured armchair was reupholstered in velvet, combining familiarity with new comfort.

The colour scheme featured soft silvers and greys—a timeless, neutral base—paired with accents of teal, a favourite hue that added energy and personality. Wall lighting was carefully integrated throughout to enhance ambience and give the space a warm, inviting glow.

A standout feature was the bespoke sofa, tailored to suit its owner’s height and comfort needs. Working closely with a trusted maker, we adjusted the dimensions and padding to create a sofa that offers both support and style—proof that bespoke design is as practical as luxurious.

To complete the space, we designed made-to-measure walnut cabinetry that echoes the fireplace detailing and offers discreet storage. A large artwork featuring the African King Protea flower adds a personal layer, referencing heritage and a sense of belonging.