Jill MacNair London Renovation
A cozy corner of the renovated living room, showcasing exposed wooden beams and a warm, terracotta-hued brick fireplace. The natural textures and muted tones create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, perfectly blending contemporary design with historical charm.
Jill MacNair
London, UK
Jill MacNair's renovation of a Grade II-listed 1838 Italianate house, undertaken in collaboration with Architecture for London, strikes a delicate balance between modern livability and historic preservation. The interior spaces are defined by an exquisite palette of materials that play with contrasts—muted paint tones complementing natural wood finishes and high-polish metals. The kitchen, for instance, features a striking combination of stainless steel cabinetry and rich oak, enhanced by the tactile warmth of sapele wood. The use of Italian ceramic tiles, especially around the fireplace, further contributes to the elegance of the design, while seamlessly blending in with the historic atmosphere of the home.
Throughout the house, MacNair's choice of materials emphasizes a refined, understated beauty. The original wooden beams in the living spaces are thoughtfully preserved, maintaining their rustic charm, while contrasting materials like polished stone and sleek metal fixtures provide a contemporary touch. This balance is also seen in the bathroom, where warm timber is paired with sophisticated stone surfaces and mirrors, creating a serene space. The restrained color palette—earthy tones and soft hues—pairs well with the clean lines of mid-century furniture by Luigi Colani and Gae Aulenti, anchoring the design in a sense of timeless elegance.
The overall effect of the renovation is one of harmonious refinement, where contemporary functionality meets historical integrity. Each material—whether the solid, grounding oak of the furniture or the cool, refined sheen of the stainless steel—has been chosen with precision to enhance the experience of the space, making this home both comfortable for a modern family and rich in historical narrative. The result is a design that honors the past while embracing the needs of today’s family life.
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