East london victorian gets french flair with a twist

A Victorian house in East London has undergone a stunning transformation, blending French elegance with a playful, child-friendly sensibility thanks to designers Rose Hanson and Charlotte Tilbury of Penrose Tilbury. The renovation reimagines the historic structure, injecting contemporary details while preserving its inherent charm.

Rose-colored lenses: how a victorian home embraces modern living

The East London property, once characterized by dark, compartmentalized rooms – a common trait of period homes in the city – now flows with an airy grace. Hanson and Tilbury prioritized creating a space where children could thrive without fear of damage, a key consideration for many families seeking to revitalize older properties.

The design ethos centers on quality pieces sourced both from France and elsewhere, layered with muted color palettes. The kitchen, envisioned as the heart of the home, boasts a custom island clad in Rosso Alicante marble and walls painted in Farrow & Farrow's Dimity. Vintage touches, such as an Art Deco pendant light and a custom bench upholstered in Dedar velvet, add character.

Beyond the kitchen, soft curves introduced through archways and carefully placed mirrors soften the house's narrow layout. A palette of pale pinks and reds, accented with bronze, adorns the living room walls, complemented by antique pendant lights and a collection of intriguing objects.

French influences are apparent throughout, most notably in the principal bathroom, which features a wide-basin sink and black lacquer detailing. A custom marble checkerboard floor, a hand-painted fresco by Emma Stevenson, and vintage fixtures evoke the luxury of Parisian hotels.

The children's bedrooms reflect a playful spirit. A little girl’s room features horse motifs, colorful wallpaper, and a custom mirror, while the boy’s room is designed to resemble a ship's cabin with a custom headboard bookcase and Fair Blue walls.

The designers' attention to detail extends to unexpected areas, such as the wardrobes in the children's rooms, adorned with artwork by Emma Stevenson. The result is a home that feels both sophisticated and lived-in, a testament to the power of thoughtful design.

The interiors, originally featured in AD France, demonstrate how a historic structure can be updated for modern living without losing its soul—a refreshing approach in a city brimming with architectural history.