Ex-local-authority properties often need a lot of work, but owners can find themselves restricted by freeholders in terms of what they can achieve. Working within these limitations, Russian For Fish transformed a drab and cramped North London flat into a bright and spacious pied-à-terre, with clean, pared-back interiors, full of rustic texture.The owner planned to use the flat as both their London home and an occasional AirBnB rental, so the decor had to balance broad appeal with playful touches of character. Neutral monochromes with warm textures, offbeat patterns and block colours bring personality and creativity into the design.