Picture this: a raw, industrial loft in the heart of London, once a bustling printing factory, transformed into a stylish, inviting home with just the right mix of vintage charm and modern flair. It's the kind of makeover that sparks imagination and begs the question – can you really soften up such a rugged space without losing its edgy soul? But here's where it gets controversial... what if the boldest moves aren't the safest ones?
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Boasting soaring double-height ceilings, unadorned brick walls, and visible pipes, this London apartment evokes the gritty lofts of Manhattan's city center. Originally a quirky printing plant, it's mostly an open-plan layout with a twist – no doors anywhere, not even for the closets, as Melanie Liaw, co-founder of the interior design firm Duelle (https://duelle.studio/), recounts. "The entire place was wide open, including the storage areas," she shares with a smile.
Commissioned by a vibrant, social client, Liaw's mission was to revamp the space and move it beyond its early 2000s makeover, dominated by stark white walls and shiny stainless steel. Early discussions sparked debate over whether to conceal the brickwork. Ultimately, they chose to embrace it: "Hiding it would have drastically altered the room's character, and given the owner's love for blending textures and merging old and new, it just felt authentic," Liaw reflects. Instead, they enveloped the guest room in a comforting lilac hue, updated the kitchen, and installed cafe-style curtains for a touch of seclusion.
Liaw also focused on selecting furniture that radiates fun, sociability, and comfort. "He wanted to ditch everything he'd brought in and begin anew," she explains. Diving in enthusiastically, she scoured her network for standout items from London's top vintage shops. Below, Liaw shares her insights in her own words, detailing how she crafted a polished haven as distinctive as its surroundings.
What was the initial item you acquired for this endeavor?
The very first arrival was a 1930s American Sarough rug. Our goal was to juxtapose famous design classics with hidden vintage gems from various periods. This rug stands out for its coral pink and gentle blue shades, which were tailored for the U.S. market back then – typically, older rugs feature deeper navy or royal blues. It truly anchors the entire area, providing a sense of stability and warmth.
Which design choice carried the highest risk?
That eye-catching pink dining table was a leap of faith, particularly since the client viewed it only through a video! It's a retro Italian resin piece with custom-made blackened steel legs. Without creating any digital mockups for this project, it demanded immense trust: 'Will your large blue sectional fit seamlessly with this vibrant pink table?'
And this is the part most people miss: taking such risks can redefine a space, but it often divides opinions. Some might see it as reckless, while others hail it as innovative. What do you think – is blind faith in design worth the gamble?
What represented the biggest luxury investment?
The Strips sofa, a 1960s creation by Cini Boeri for Arflex, was a significant outlay. The client adores LEGO, so its modular, block-like design felt like a perfect match. This iconic seating can accommodate at least six guests. Plus, its removable zip-on covers – we opted for a cornflower blue – make it a central focal point in the color palette.
What turned out to be your smartest cost-saving move?
We skipped demolishing the kitchen entirely, even leaving the handles intact. Instead, we had the lower cabinets professionally spray-painted in a rich chocolate brown, a far better fit for today's vibe (previously, it was Hague Blue by Farrow & Ball). A skilled crew handled it in just one afternoon – removing the doors, then reinstalling them in a single day 10 days later. The result? A kitchen that appears brand new, offering incredible value for the money spent.
Did you collaborate with any thrilling new vendors?
I'd been eager to incorporate London hardware brand izé (https://www.ize.info/) for some time. They produce custom items and team up with talented designers. I chose these egg-shaped knobs by architects 6a, using them vertically as coat hooks in the entryway and flipping them sideways as handles for wardrobe doors. They're absolutely delightful.
Which paint shade emerged as your top favorite?
The guest bedroom is the first space you encounter upon entering, and since visitors pass through it to reach the en-suite bathroom, we aimed to inject a sense of wonder. Pale Lilac by Mylands evokes the cozy, exclusive ambiance of a members-only lounge.
Were there opportunities to repurpose existing elements?
We removed the massive walnut bookshelf that was obstructing natural light in the living zone and repurposed it into sleek bedside tables. By smoothing the wood and refinishing it, we breathed new life into the material, showcasing how upcycling can be both eco-friendly and stylish.
What straightforward concept made a significant difference?
The flooring was an inconsistent patchwork of yellowish and reddish woods. Rather than replacing it entirely, we painted most of it in a glossy off-white to evoke the aesthetic of '90s artist studios in New York lofts. It unified the space beautifully and added a layer of sophistication.
Which storage solution proved to be a true game-changer?
The client occasionally works from home but preferred not to have a visible office setup. We designed a bespoke desk nook with sliding doors that conceal the computer screen when not in use. The compact table rolls on wheels, allowing it to swivel for fresh video call backdrops, and includes a hidden drawer for the laptop. It's adorably discreet and practical – a sneaky little innovation that doesn't compromise style.
But wait, here's where controversy might flare up: decisions like embracing raw brickwork or purchasing furniture sight unseen challenge traditional design norms. Is it genius or just asking for trouble? Do you agree that industrial spaces deserve a soft touch, or should they stay stark and unyielding? Share your thoughts in the comments – we'd love to hear if you've taken similar risks in your own home transformations!
