Dublin-based interior designer Bo Fentum masterminded the stunning renovation of a 1960s London home. Here, she gives her top tips for undertaking such a project.
Words: Ciara Elliott | Photography: Chris Snook
1. Know your style
Be mindful that you are creating a home and not a museum. My clients chose this style of house as they love mid-century design and were really committed to bringing this look back to the house, but if you are not convinced on this look, be careful of going too heavy on it. Modern pieces also look really good in a mid-century build.
2. Factor the cost of rent into your budget
Often full house projects involve new bathrooms, kitchen and extension and it is just not possible to live on site. Unless you have somewhere else to stay, renting elsewhere may be an additional cost to factor in from the start.
3. Think about the space
Family houses like this need time given to deciding on the spatial arrangement. Room sizes, placements and kitchen layout all make a huge difference. For this project some rooms had three to four layouts drawn up before we decided which to go with. Getting this right will dictate where electrics and heating will be – information that the builders will want to know sooner rather than later to avoid delays.
4. Plan in five-year chunks
When I design for family homes, I think about them in five-year increments to make sure that it is still fit for purpose then. Your home needs to work for you now and in the future. What we need when we have small children will be different to when they are babies and teenagers, and good design should work for all three stages.
Burnt orange and rich brown shades are associated with mid-century interiors, but the pink of this door feels just right too
Try turning an awkward corner into a cosy nook – little extras such as this can really change the feel and utility of your home
Sourcebook
Interior designer: Bo Fentum
Kitchen: Holte
Joiner: Kraftwork
Kitchen floor tiles and surfaces: The Mosaic Factory
Kitchen ceiling lights: Light Cookie
Flooring: Parquet flooring in lounge and dining area, Maples & Birch
Garden design: Marc O’Neill
Windows and doors: Smart Systems
Exterior cladding: Qtdgroup.com
Furniture: Ligne Roset Togo sofa, dining table and chairs – all vintage. For similar try Vinterior
To find out more about Bo, visit her website, or pick up more top tips by following her on Instagram @bo.fentum.design
If you haven't read the full story of Bo's renovation of this London home, catch up here.
