A beautifully restored Georgian terrace in London has been transformed from a bland, white-walled space into a warm and inviting family home bursting with personality. The townhouse, belonging to a British-South African couple and their toddler son, showcases how thoughtful design can breathe new life into historic architecture while maintaining its original charm.
The dramatic transformation was orchestrated by American-born interior designer Brandon Schubert, who helped the family move away from the property's previous sterile appearance of white walls and gray carpet. The home now features a rich palette of toffee-colored walls, oyster pink accents, and terracotta tones that create depth and warmth throughout the space. During the winter months, the glow of table lamps enhances these warm hues, while bronze Christmas ornaments add seasonal sparkle to the festive decor.
Schubert, who describes himself as being in a "warm and cozy color phase," drew inspiration from caramels, oranges, reds, and greens to create the home's inviting atmosphere. The designer emphasized that the building's original bones were exceptional and required only light structural work coupled with a comprehensive interior redesign. Initially, the owners considered a full renovation but ultimately decided on a more measured, phased approach that would respect the home's heritage while modernizing its functionality.
The most significant structural change involved relocating the kitchen from the basement to the ground floor, creating a more intuitive flow throughout the home. This move proved transformative, as the new kitchen features a buttercream finish offset by rich orange walls and wide-plank pine flooring. The space naturally connects to the adjoining dining room, which mirrors the kitchen's architectural details and houses a custom dining table designed by Schubert himself.
Throughout the home, Schubert's design philosophy focused on incorporating pattern without allowing the space to feel overly cottage-like. He achieved this balance by choosing painted walls over wallpaper and selecting smaller, geometric patterns for curtains while keeping upholstery in solid colors. The approach ensures that each room maintains intensity and energy through color rather than relying heavily on busy patterns.
The designer's strategy also involved reimagining the family's existing pieces in new contexts. A writing desk in the study received a smart black leather inset to replace its worn red top, while a gilt-framed mirror above the fireplace was transformed with a faux bird's eye maple timber effect. Georgian mahogany pot cupboards were softened with gently patterned purple drapes against gray-green walls, demonstrating how thoughtful styling can update traditional pieces.
Art plays a significant role in the home's character, with the couple incorporating both new acquisitions and cherished South African pieces throughout the space. The sitting room features works by Stanhope Alexander Forbes and Frank Beanland, while custom bookcases designed by Schubert house the family's collection in the upstairs library. Every room tells a story through carefully curated objects and artwork that reflect the family's travels and interests.
The Christmas decorations seamlessly integrate with the home's year-round design scheme. Garlands from Atelier Emmanuel wind through doorways and mantels, while gift wrapping and ribbons from The Kensington Paperie add sophisticated seasonal touches. The approach to holiday decorating demonstrates how festive elements can enhance rather than overwhelm a well-designed interior.
Looking toward the future, the family plans to eventually tackle the basement level with its conservatory extension, which will provide more generous access to the garden. However, the current configuration already serves their needs perfectly, offering an ideal setting for entertaining friends and family during the holiday season. The owners have established a tradition of taking walks along the river before holiday meals, making their return to this warm and welcoming home even more special.
This London townhouse stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful interior design to transform not just spaces, but daily life. By respecting the building's Georgian heritage while infusing it with contemporary comfort and personal style, Schubert and the homeowners have created a space that feels both timeless and thoroughly modern—a true sanctuary in the heart of London.
