How to Transform a Period Property in London into a Modern Luxury Space

Elegant entrance staircase in a Hammersmith Grove townhouse featuring a beautifully refurbished classical balustrade paired with striking modern geometric tiles, blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary design aesthetics. A perfect representation of Supremati’s ability to harmonize heritage elements with modern luxury.

Transforming a period property in London into a modern luxury space requires a thoughtful blend of respecting the building’s historical features while introducing contemporary design elements that meet today’s standards of luxury. Here’s a guide based on Supremati’s approach:

1. Celebrate the Character of the Property

  • Preserve unique architectural features such as ornate cornices, ceiling roses, or period fireplaces. These elements add charm and authenticity to the home.

  • Highlight these features by juxtaposing them with clean, modern lines in furniture and décor, as seen in the Albion Gate project, where art-deco elements were paired with serene, contemporary palettes.

2. Update Layout for Modern Living

  • Reconfigure layouts to improve flow and functionality. Open-plan spaces, such as combining the kitchen, dining, and living areas, create a more spacious and social environment.

  • Supremati’s work on a Wimbledon Village property demonstrates how integrating modern layouts, like a large kitchen-dining space and floor-to-ceiling windows, can seamlessly merge classic and modern elements.

3. Embrace Customization

  • Bespoke joinery, such as built-in wardrobes, libraries, or custom cabinetry, ensures the design suits the property’s unique dimensions. This approach was evident in Supremati's Hammersmith Townhouse project, which featured custom-crafted black American walnut fittings to maximize functionality and aesthetic appeal.

4. Incorporate Luxurious Materials

  • Opt for premium finishes like marble, polished metals, or fine wood veneers to exude sophistication. Combining these materials with period details elevates the space without compromising its character.

  • For example, luxurious marble cladding in bathrooms and Rubelli fabric wallpaper, as seen in the Albion Gate project, add timeless elegance.

5. Infuse Light and Space

  • Enhance natural light with larger windows or skylights where possible. Mirrors, metallic accents, and light-toned walls can amplify brightness.

  • Supremati’s designs often incorporate floor-to-ceiling windows and mirrors to ensure even period properties feel airy and modern.

6. Technology Integration

  • Integrate smart home technology discreetly, such as automated lighting, underfloor heating, and concealed sound systems, to ensure modern convenience without detracting from the design.

7. Sustainability Considerations

  • Upgrade insulation, heating systems, and glazing to make the property more energy-efficient without altering its appearance significantly.

For an in-depth look at examples and inspiration, explore Supremati’s portfolio, such as their transformations of Albion Gate, Wimbledon Village, Belgrave Square Mansion and Hammersmith Townhouse properties. These projects demonstrate how modern luxury can enhance historic spaces while preserving their timeless appeal.

Open-plan kitchen and dining area in Supremati's Hammersmith Townhouse project. Featuring sleek modern kitchen cabinetry seamlessly paired with period details, including elegant cornices, classic sash windows, and traditional skirting.

Open-plan kitchen and dining area in our Hammersmith Townhouse project. Featuring sleek modern kitchen cabinetry seamlessly paired with period details, including elegant cornices, classic windows, and traditional skirting, this space offers the perfect blend of contemporary design and timeless charm.

Stunning, preserved cast iron fireplace, a unique architectural feature that adds timeless charm to the home. Beautifully juxtaposed with sleek modern joinery, these design elements create a perfect blend of authenticity and contemporary style.

Stunning, preserved cast iron fireplace, a unique architectural feature that adds timeless charm to the home. Beautifully juxtaposed with sleek modern joinery, these design elements create a perfect blend of authenticity and contemporary style.

Basement man-cave design in Wimbledon Village project, featuring a classical tall window extending to the ground floor and a striking spiral staircase.

Basement man-cave design in a Wimbledon Village project, featuring a classical tall window extending to the ground floor and a striking spiral staircase. This elegant space complements the Georgian house style, offering a luxurious and sophisticated entertainment area for the owner.

Layout reconfiguration in our Wimbledon Village project enhances flow and functionality. The open-plan design seamlessly integrates the kitchen and dining areas, creating a spacious, social, and modern environment perfect for contemporary living.

Home office installation in Wimbledon Village, blending timeless oak joinery and a fireplace surround inspired by the Georgian house style. Modern elements, including bold artwork and an Ingo Maurer Flying Flames chandelier, harmonize traditional elegance with contemporary living, reflecting the client’s sophisticated taste.

Grade II Listed apartment at 1 Carlos Place, Mayfair, featuring bespoke wall paneling that echoes the building's original design. Modern chandeliers and wall lights add a contemporary touch, creating a sophisticated fusion of classic elegance and modern style.

Grade II Listed apartment at 1 Carlos Place, Mayfair.

Grade II Listed apartment at 1 Carlos Place, Mayfair.

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