Tuckey Design Studio has skillfully transformed a three-storey early Victorian terrace house in Knightsbridge, creating a serene urban retreat that offers a personal escape from the bustling city life of London. This remarkable renovation is not just a mere update but a reimagining of the existing space, designed to provide intimate moments and areas where one can find tranquility amidst the vibrancy of central London.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Knightsbridge, London
Architecture & Interior Design: Tuckey Design Studio
Photography: Fran Mart
The project was initiated by a client based in Hong Kong, who sought a more personalized alternative to the typical hotel experience during his frequent visits to London. The brief was clear: to develop a minimalist, monastery-like environment that could serve as a soothing sanctuary. This space needed to reflect a refined aesthetic while also acting as a backdrop for the client’s curated collection of art objects.
To achieve this vision, the house underwent an extensive renovation that stripped it back to its bare bones, revealing the raw beauty of its structural elements. The rich timber floor joists and roof trusses were celebrated for their imperfections, emphasizing the authenticity of the space rather than hiding them away. Tuckey’s design philosophy centers around a natural material palette, where white walls form a canvas for the tactile richness of stone, timber, concrete, and exposed brick. This combination creates a harmonious balance that exudes calm and sophistication.
Strategically placed staircases at each end of the main room facilitate fluid movement through the home. One staircase is cleverly concealed behind a wall, leading down to the lower ground floor, enhancing the sense of discovery within the home. A large timber sash window floods the living room with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. The original chimney breast, now exposed and painted in limewash, serves as a stunning focal point, visually connecting all three storeys and adding to the home’s sense of continuity.
Tuckey Design Studio has paid meticulous attention to detail throughout the renovation, exemplified by the bespoke bench crafted from excess pitch pine rafters. These rafters, removed during the renovation, were reinterpreted and transformed into a unique piece of furniture, supported by new Douglas Fir legs. This not only highlights the resourcefulness of the design process but also reinforces the narrative of the house, where history and modernity coexist beautifully.
The interiors are a testament to the power of minimalism. Each room flows seamlessly into the next, with thoughtful spatial planning that encourages relaxation and reflection. The open areas create a sense of spaciousness while also allowing for cozy nooks that invite quiet moments. The curated art collection finds its home within this refined backdrop, enhancing the aesthetic while providing personal significance.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, the Bough Terrace project stands as a beacon of serenity. Tuckey Design Studio has masterfully created an environment that allows for personal retreat and introspection. The minimalist design philosophy not only meets the client’s desire for a tranquil escape but also reflects a broader trend in urban living—creating spaces that nurture the soul and inspire creativity.
As more people seek respite from the hectic pace of city life, the importance of well-designed personal spaces cannot be overstated. Tuckey’s approach to this Victorian terrace showcases how thoughtful design can transform a house into a true home, one that resonates with the values of its inhabitants.
In the heart of London, this transformed terrace now stands as an urban sanctuary, embodying a perfect blend of comfort, artistry, and tranquility. Through their innovative vision, Tuckey Design Studio reminds us that our homes are not just places to live; they are extensions of who we are, spaces where we can retreat, reflect, and recharge.
