Case Study: A London Apartment Receives a New Lease of Life
The Brief:
In Belgravia, one of London’s most desirable addresses, our clients purchased a duplex apartment with enviable bones but an interior trapped in the 1980s. Tired décor, dated layouts, and harsh “landing strip” lighting needed a complete rethink.
The young couple, with two energetic boys, asked Janine Stone & Co. to deliver a full design and build transformation—breathing new life into the property while ensuring it could function as a stylish, modern family home.
The Challenges
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Outdated 1980s interiors with poor lighting design.
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Thick period walls limiting natural light penetration.
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Disjointed bedroom layouts that no longer suited family living.
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Strict building and fire regulations in a heritage London apartment.
Our Approach
Led by Anthony Bevacqua, London Design Director, the project combined interior design, architecture, and project management to reconfigure the duplex into a cohesive modern home while respecting its period character.
Anthony recalls:
“The 1980s had left a lot to answer for. We wanted to strip away the harshness of the era and create subtle, considered spaces with light, proportion, and comfort at their heart.”
Key Design Solutions
The duplex was reimagined with a reconfigured master suite, a flexible boys’ bedroom/play area, and a practical resin-floored wet room. Natural light was introduced through a dramatic Crittall© glazed wall, which also allowed for a new powder room, while a concealed mist system discreetly met fire regulations. Period details were restored and paired with modern finishes in the kitchen and dining areas, complemented by concealed lighting from Hawksbee to add both ambience and safety. To showcase the clients’ collection, a contemporary fireplace was designed around a Victor Pasmore painting, with a full-width credenza providing elegant storage and display.
The Result
The completed Belgravia duplex now feels both timeless and modern—a transitional interior that balances heritage with contemporary living. The introduction of light, flexible layouts, and carefully layered finishes transformed the space into a vibrant, family-friendly home.
Anthony reflects:
“It’s a joy when clients are aligned with your design aesthetic. These clients trusted us to interpret their vision, which made the process smooth and enjoyable.”
The client adds:
“We have our perfect home, and it is exactly how it was designed and visualised.”
About Janine Stone & Co.
Janine Stone & Co. is a leading name in London interior design and architecture, renowned for its expertise in residential interiors, design and build, and project management. From Belgravia and Kensington to Holland Park and Hampstead, our multi-disciplinary team has transformed apartments, townhouses, and country homes with timeless elegance and meticulous attention to detail.
