Sophistication and elegance are the words that come to mind when describing Georgian interiors. This design style is known for its symmetrical architecture, high ceilings, dramatic interiors, and ornate decor, with features that are striking as it is luxurious.
For UK-based interior designer, renovator, and content creator Laura Butler-Madden, renovating and designing a Georgian Townhouse was a dream come true. This project realised her love for architectural history, timeless elegance, and sense of sustainability in breathing new life into period properties.
“We got the keys in the middle of the first lockdown in the UK, and I think my design reflects this,” Laura shares. “The world felt chaotic and strange, so my instinct was to create an amazingly calm sanctuary to retreat to. The colours I chose throughout our mainly very soft to create this sense of serenity, but I also wanted to let the beauty of the architecture really shine through.”
The result is an exquisite Georgian home with a colourful twist, as you will see below. Says Laura, “Elegant is a word I love and aspire to in all my designs. I think it describes something classic and timeless but also with a bit of fun – something that will subtly make people stop and look. I think it also describes an uncluttered and a carefully curated space, where less is more.”
Kitchen
Laura spends most of her time in the kitchen, sometimes working at the kitchen island. It’s a beautiful space that instantly calms the senses, with the stunning Georgian bay windows bathing the room with natural light. The interiors are effortlessly chic, paying homage to the era with its beautiful ceiling rose and traditional cornicing. Softer influences are seen in the statement chandelier, curved dining chairs, and rounded arch. Adding a contemporary touch to the period property is the kitchen island and functional cabinetry with their elegant details. The unique geometric pattern by Trunk Floor also adds an element of interest. Armac Martin’s striking hardware – featuring the Apollo knob and Jaspette Pull and Finger Pull in antique brass lacquered finish – provide a clever contrast to the warm neutral palette.
The Sitting Room
Adjacent to the kitchen is a sitting room that introduces playful pops of colour through the artworks and decor on display. Along with the kitchen, this space is where the family spends time together, especially in the evenings.
The curved nooks on either side of the fireplace continue the arched architecture in the kitchen. At the same time, the panelled cabinetry echoes the design of Armac Martin’s Sutton cabinet knob with its subtle ridge detailing. Completing the old meets new approach are these eye-catching Gubi Pacha chairs, which highlight the fun and modern aesthetic of the room.
The Cinema Room
Laura’s design philosophy includes giving a home its own personality – reflecting the people who live there and their tastes. This is reflected in their cinema room – a welcome break from the neutral palette in the other rooms.
The use of bold colour still evokes a sense of calm and comfort, thanks to the tasteful Gucci Heron Wallpaper and bright pink walls, complemented by the soft furnishings and luxurious fabrics. The whimsical setting is achieved through the room’s harmony of colours, shapes, and textures.
With the natural light filtering through the windows, Laura’s bedroom has become the calm sanctuary she envisioned. The traditional Georgian features exude timeless style, punctuated by charming details like the bespoke cabinet and mirror. Luxurious hardware such as Armac Martin’s Jaspette Pulls elevate the space, and the polished brass lacquered finish adds warmth and modern touch to the room.
