Darling chatted to Annika Prince, Caley House Development Manager, about this British Home Award Finalist in the heart of Wimbledon Village
Caley House is an award winning luxurious development of nine homes. It’s created from the conversion and extension of a large Edwardian property that was once the home of controversial art critic, author and broadcaster Brian Sewell.
Developer West Eleven worked with Jo Cowen Architects to create a coach house and five apartments in the historic building and three new mews homes. These are in a strikingly modern yet complementary style. The homes have all been thoughtfully oriented so that the living spaces overlook the gardens. The bedrooms are quieter and more secluded in the rear. The older part of the property, where Sewell once kept his extensive art collection, has retained some attractive period features. Original stained glass windows, chimney breasts and high ceilings have been preserved. New elements have a contemporary feel and include a textured rustic brick façades and deep-set zinc window reveals in warm copper.
The show home interior
The task of creating the show home to sell this unique collection of properties, ranging from one to three bedrooms, was given to Amelia McNeil Interior Design. The design needed to reflect both the classic and the contemporary aspects of the development. It appeals to a wide range of buyers, including young professionals and downsizing retirees. To bring out the best aspects of the spacious, light- filled rooms and flourishing communal gardens outside, Amelia McNeil created eclectic interiors with a natural palette that made house buyers feel totally at home. Carefully chosen furniture, including pieces with a timeless mid-century appeal, strong colours and thoughtful accessories ensured that visitors of all ages were able to visualise how they would live comfortably in the space.
Modern and classic mix
“I decided to create an eclectic design that felt contemporary but also showed this Edwardian building in its best light.” she explains. The result is an elegant environment that feels like it has evolved organically, rather than the shiny, soulless perfection of so many show homes. Ornate cornicing, elegant fireplaces and deep-set skirting boards call to mind the grandeur of Caley House’s previous incarnation. The stylish bathrooms and considered lighting that can be varied according to time and mood, provide the best of 21st century design. Overall, the apartment has a gentle mix of modern and classic elements that will make almost any potential buyer wish that Caley House was their home.
The gorgeous kitchen of the apartment has handleless units finished in Farrow & Ball’s distinctive Inchyra paint. This is an aged blue that can vary in tone from deep blue, to greenish, to almost charcoal depending on the light. This contrasts to the mews house kitchens which are more Scandinavian in design with smooth white finishes and an earthy green accent.
Our luxury 100% natural Women of Inspiration Candles fit in beautifully .
The outside environment
To McNeil it was a way of linking the interior with the experience of nature in the gardens outside; part of a fresh, natural palette designed to appeal to both urban and country dwellers. The theme is continued with a carefully curated selection of natural accessories. These include lush houseplants in rattan pots and bamboo light fittings, which, along with the simple, rustic dining table, sustainable timber flooring. Matt black ironmongery also create warmth and texture.
The development is complete and there are a limited number of units still available and ready to move into before Christmas.
Please see www.caleyhouse.london for more information.
For beautiful bespoke furniture, whatever your brief is, see https://cosywood.co.uk/
You may also enjoy reading https://darlingmagazine.co.uk/home-leisure/revolutionize-the-busiest-room-in-the-house-with-kitchen-revolutions/
