05th May, 2021

A minimalist modernisation of a Thames-side apartment

Barr Group took on the challenge to turn a dark and enclosed riverside apartment into a light, airy, restful abode.

Set within a converted warehouse building, with its history in the hemp trade and shipping chandlery, the Barr Group team worked closely with Last Interior Design, to turn a dark and enclosed riverside apartment into a light, airy, restful abode.

When our client approached us, last year, to renovate her London Warehouse apartment, the Barr Group team were delighted to offer the complete project managed service she required. As a busy professional, with a full weekday schedule, Sandra did not want to spend her weekends searching for bathroom tiles! Instead, she provided a loose brief, outlining the factors which were more important to her – leaving all creative, structural, and planning decisions to Last Interior Design and the Barr Group team.

“Inspiration was taken from exposed brick walls, original archways and structural pillars in order to retain the warehouse spirit of the apartment whilst at the same time creating a bright airy abode.”

Rachele Bowley, Last Interior Design

The focus was on restoring, enhancing and balancing original features. Exposed brick walls set the tonal pallet, with archways, pillars and industrial fenestration setting the scene for the overall style. With a client brief for bright and restful, open and river facing – the Last Interior Design, Barr Build, Barr Joinery and Barr Kitchens teams took a collaborative client focused approach, providing a personalised turn key service, with stunning end results.

“I wanted to retain and celebrate the apartment’s original features, bring in light and create a calm restful river facing space. Over and above that I left everything up to Chris and Rachele.”

Sandra Henke, Client

The perfectly aligned Barr Kitchens cabinetry remains simple and streamlined allowing original architectural features to take centre stage. Structural metal posts, painted timber beams and bare brick arches are enhanced by the simple, flat-fronted inky blue cabinetry. The white oiled oak shelving and cooker-hood add subtle warmth.

Inspiration for the inky blue half-sheen cabinetry finish came from the original warehouse metal doors, painted the same deep blue/green across the whole building, and the deep sludgy blue of the River Thames below.