By Ali Ikhwan 
Once a dark and compartmentalized space, typical of many historic homes in the British capital, a Victorian house in East London has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis, thanks to the acclaimed interior design duo Rose Hanson and Charlotte Tilbury of the Penrose Tilbury design firm. Their meticulous approach has reimagined the older structure into an abode that masterfully balances elegance with everyday comfort, a testament to their distinct design philosophy. This transformation addresses the common challenges of historical properties – namely, their often-cramped layouts and subdued lighting – by creating an environment that is both sophisticated and remarkably livable.
Rose Hanson, a key figure in the project, commented on the finished product, stating, "It’s a place where children can play and you don’t have to worry about them breaking something." This sentiment underscores a central tenet of Penrose Tilbury’s design strategy: creating beautiful spaces that are not precious, but rather, are designed to be actively enjoyed by all members of the household. This philosophy is particularly relevant in today’s market, where homeowners are increasingly seeking interiors that cater to the demands of modern family life without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
A hallmark of Penrose Tilbury’s work, as seen in this East London residence, is the integration of carefully curated pieces sourced from France and beyond. Hanson’s background in antique sourcing lends an authentic and unique character to their projects. "Hanson has an antique sourcing business after all," the original report notes, highlighting a critical element of their design process that brings a rich history and narrative to each space. This commitment to sourcing exceptional antique and vintage items not only adds visual depth but also champions sustainable design practices by giving new life to pre-loved objects. The interiors are further unified by a palette of muted tones, creating a serene and cohesive atmosphere throughout the home.
The Kitchen: A Vibrant Heart of the Home
Central to the renovation was the reimagining of the kitchen, envisioned as the vibrant nexus of family life. Charlotte Tilbury emphasized the importance of integrated storage solutions, particularly for families with children. "We tell families with children that it’s essential to provide storage space for all their toys, so that their craft supplies and things don’t detract from the beauty of the space," she explained. This practical consideration was meticulously incorporated into the kitchen’s design, with an abundance of built-in cupboards ensuring that the aesthetic appeal of the space remains uncompromised.
The kitchen’s aesthetic is a sophisticated blend of cream tones and luxurious pink marble, punctuated by glossy black accents that subtly evoke the refined elegance of perfume bottles. This color palette creates a visually appealing and stimulating environment, while the marble adds a touch of timeless luxury. The space cleverly doubles as a library and a breakfast nook, enhanced by a magnificent skylight that bathes the area in natural light. Hanson described this area as "a place where children can sit and read a book while their parents cook," fostering a sense of togetherness and shared activity. The final result, as Hanson noted, "doesn’t resemble a traditional kitchen," moving beyond purely functional design to embrace a more multifaceted and inviting role within the home.
The original Art Deco pendant light above the kitchen island serves as a striking focal point, a nod to the home’s historical roots. The custom island itself, crafted from Rosso Alicante marble, adds a layer of bespoke luxury. The walls are painted in Farrow & Ball’s Dimity, a soft and inviting hue that complements the marble. Penrose Tilbury hardware provides a cohesive and elegant finish, while the custom bench, upholstered in Dedar’s Jamu Jungle velvet jacquard and Marci mohair from Sister by Studio Ashby, introduces texture and a rich, tactile quality. Vintage wall sconces and bar stools upholstered in blue bouclé complete the layered and inviting ambiance of this central living space.
Embracing Curves for Sophistication
The designers strategically introduced soft curves into the architectural details of the house, such as archways and other structural elements. This deliberate design choice serves to break up the typically deep and narrow proportions of Victorian terraced homes, softening the linearity of the architecture. "Adding these curves gives an impression of sophistication, particularly when paired with the mirrors we bought from Paris," remarked Tilbury, highlighting how these architectural nuances contribute to an elevated sense of style.
The dining room flows seamlessly from the kitchen, a classic Victorian arrangement that fosters a convivial and connected living environment. This layout encourages interaction and shared meals, reinforcing the home’s role as a gathering place. In the living room, walls painted in a delicate interplay of pale pink and red, accented with bronze highlights, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is further enhanced by intriguing decorative details, strategically placed mirrors, and antique pendant lights, all contributing to a rich and layered aesthetic. Multiple comfortable sofas, including a bespoke piece, are arranged to take full advantage of the light and charm of a classic British bow window, a defining feature of many Victorian properties.
A Touch of French Elegance in the Bathrooms
The designers drew inspiration from French hotel aesthetics when conceiving the bathrooms, particularly evident in the principal bathroom’s distinctive sink. "You don’t find those kinds of sinks in the UK," Hanson observed, referring to the wide-basin sink with its specific hardware. "But then when you go to Paris, they’re everywhere." This preference for specific French design elements underscores the firm’s global sourcing and inspiration.
Within the shower, cornflower blue tiles are elegantly complemented by a rounded black lacquer rim, a design motif that is subtly echoed throughout other areas of the house, creating a sense of visual continuity. "A little touch of blue or green seems to brighten up any room," Tilbury noted, advocating for the impactful use of color in interior design. The bathroom itself is a masterpiece of design, featuring custom marble checkerboard flooring and a breathtaking hand-painted fresco, elements that contribute to its undeniable "wow factor."
The principal bathroom embodies a luxurious and refined atmosphere. The custom marble checkerboard flooring, a striking composition of Rosso Alicante, white Carrara marble, and black marble, provides a dramatic foundation. Above, a ceiling adorned with a hand-painted fresco by artist Emma Stevenson adds an artistic and unexpected dimension. The substantial antique double pedestal sink, sourced from France, speaks to the home’s international design influences. Lighting is provided by a captivating chandelier and wall lights from Ercole Barovier, renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship. A photographic print by Slim Aarons, "Lounging in Verbier," injects a touch of vintage glamour and aspiration. The Heritage Victoria bathtub, with its classic roll top, and raw brass fittings from Lefroy Brooks further enhance the bathroom’s timeless appeal. The custom walk-in shower features a curtain designed by Penrose Tilbury and a tassel cord by Jessica Light for East London Cloth, demonstrating a commitment to bespoke details. An Austrian blind in Shetland moiré fabric from Zoffany completes the sophisticated window treatment.
Whimsical Touches for Children’s Rooms
The renovation also thoughtfully addressed the specific needs and aesthetics of the children’s bedrooms, infusing them with character and playful charm. In the little girl’s bedroom, artist Emma Stevenson’s delicate horse motifs were hand-painted onto the wardrobe, creating a personalized and artistic touch. These motifs are echoed in custom mirrors, curtains, and colorful wallpaper, resulting in a cohesive and enchanting space. "As it’s a child’s bedroom, we wanted color, but not too much," Hanson stated, balancing the desire for vibrancy with a restrained approach. This directive did not preclude the inclusion of a bright, butter-yellow mirror, which adds a cheerful and unexpected element. Horse motifs are a recurring theme throughout the textiles and lamps in this room, reflecting a whimsical and spirited design choice.
In contrast, the boy’s bedroom was designed with a unique concept, aiming to resemble a cabin on a ship. The bed features a custom headboard that doubles as a bookcase, a clever integration of form and function. The walls of the room are painted in Edward Bulmer’s Fair Blue, a calming and nautical-inspired hue. Vintage Roman blinds by Collier Campbell add a touch of retro charm. The attention to detail in these children’s spaces highlights Penrose Tilbury’s ability to create environments that are both stimulating and comforting for young inhabitants.
The smaller powder room on the ground floor also received careful attention. "We love latticework and Greek motifs, and here we matched the fabric used for the window treatment and the wallpaper," said Hanson, showcasing their penchant for detailed design. This approach to pattern and texture adds a subtle yet impactful layer of sophistication to even the smallest spaces within the home.
A Legacy of Design Excellence
The transformation of this East London Victorian house by Rose Hanson and Charlotte Tilbury stands as a compelling example of how thoughtful interior design can breathe new life into historical properties. Their ability to seamlessly blend antique treasures with contemporary comfort, and to create spaces that are both aesthetically refined and eminently practical, positions them as leaders in the field. The project not only enhances the functionality and beauty of the home but also preserves its historical character while adapting it for the demands of modern family living. The original article was first published in AD France, indicating the international recognition of Penrose Tilbury’s design prowess. This comprehensive renovation showcases a deep understanding of architectural heritage, a keen eye for sourcing unique pieces, and a commitment to creating homes that are not just beautiful, but deeply livable.