A strikingly minimal gallery-like space, in a listed building, referencing the tanneries of Dickensian London.

Once surrounded by the leather tanneries of Dickensian Whitechapel, this artisan dwelling was originally built as a lodge for a tanner and his family.

Designed in 1864 by pioneering architect Henry Roberts and now Grade 2 listed, the lodge gives a rare insight into architecture now scarce in east London.

Part derelict by the 1970’s and threatened with demolition, the building was saved, but most original features were removed and modernised. This gave us the freedom during our redesign, to strip out these additions, and reveal the underlying listed structure.

We challenged ourselves to create a strikingly minimal interior within the listed building. A gallery-like space where the pieces of furniture are the exhibits.

The resulting design is deceptively simple.

A restrained palette. Pared back with no ornamentation. Using as few textures as possible.

Working with the unusual S-shaped kitchen area was particularly challenging.
We organised it into three functional zones - cooking, washing and utility - and custom built each zone into the three alcoves. The addition of underfloor heating allowed the removal of radiators to give more usable wall space.

The cabinet doors are inlaid with a walnut edge, which mirrors the wood in the rest of the apartment and is only revealed when open.

We selected the same material for the work surface and cabinet fronts to unify the three zones. A hard wearing, peppercorn toned Fenix with a matte finish.

As you enter the living space, a continuous resin floor flows from the entrance, and leads you to the kitchen.

The 70’s skirting, architraves and door frames were removed. Full height concealed storage was inserted either side of the listed chimney breast.

Secondary glazing and frosting were added to the sash window for privacy. This eliminated the need for window dressing and accentuated the minimal aesthetic.

A hand crafted Japanese bench in blackened wood sits beneath the window. A narrow leaf Philodendron nestles in an earthenware pot.

The sofa with low back and deep seats is perfect for lounging. With an integral side table, it frees the central floor area. The upholstery a weave of subtle colours - apricot, coffee, black, cream, tan and burnt orange. This brings warmth and softness to the room.

With clever space planning we inserted a partition to create a walk in wardrobe. The rest of the bedroom was kept deliberately minimal.

A low Japanese inspired bed in solid walnut with matching side table. A flat woven rug. An oasis of calm.

To create a wet room within the listed structure required building a room within a room, with false walls and floor. The services couldn’t be relocated, so they were integrated into the design to form the shower area and sink plinth.

Resin covers everything in a continuous flow from floor to ceiling. Stainless steel fixtures blend in as they reflect the surrounding colours.