Transforming a 1940s Home into a Stylish Haven

A Timeless Family Retreat: Transforming a 1940s Home into a Stylish Haven

As an interior designer, one of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing a client’s vision come to life—especially when that vision is about creating a home that’s not only functional but also full of character and warmth. When Louise and James Woods asked me to help with their 1940s detached house in Hertfordshire, I knew we were embarking on something special.

They had a wonderful space to work with—a large garden, five bedrooms, and plenty of potential—but it was clear that the house had been stuck in time. The layout was cramped and didn’t flow well, and despite being south-facing at the back, the house felt dark and a little tired. Louise, a partner at a law firm, and James, a project manager, knew that if they were going to make this house work for their growing family, they needed to rethink it entirely. That’s where I came in.

Henry pendant lights, West Elm

Hanna Oak counter stools, Habitat

Crick wall lights in Antiqued Brass, Pooky

Blinds in Belmondo cotton-linen, Dedar

A Fresh Perspective on the Layout

The couple had already worked with a local architect to create plans for a major renovation. They wanted to open up the ground floor, add a spacious kitchen, and extend the house for a new ensuite bedroom. But when I first met with Louise, she admitted she was unsure whether the plans were the best use of the space. The design was good, but it didn’t quite feel like their home yet.

We started with a deep dive into the existing plans. The key to making the house work for a busy family was creating a seamless flow between the main living areas—something the original layout didn’t quite achieve. For example, there was a door in the sitting room that would have obstructed the view for a large family TV, making it difficult for the family to gather and enjoy movie nights together. So, we decided to remove that door and add a double-width entrance instead, creating a more open and accessible space. This allowed us to create a large feature wall for the TV, framed by bespoke joinery that offered plenty of storage for family treasures and everyday clutter.

Bringing Personality into the Design

Once we had the flow sorted, we moved on to the interior design. Louise had a clear vision of what she wanted: a home that felt timeless yet full of character, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. She had gathered lots of images of contemporary homes from California, and we were excited to adapt that style to suit the cooler, greyer skies of Britain.

One of the first decisions we made was to stick with a soft, neutral palette throughout the house. This allowed us to create a sense of cohesion across the entire space, making it feel calm and sophisticated. But we didn’t want it to feel dull, so we introduced textures and accents that added personality.

One recurring design element that became central to the entire home was the use of wavy lines. These soft curves are subtly incorporated in various elements—from the bespoke wall panel behind the TV to the wavy headboard in the master bedroom. It’s a detail that ties the home together, creating a harmonious and unique atmosphere.

Designing Spaces for Real Family Life

The sitting room became the heart of the home—a comfortable space for family gatherings. We chose a modular sofa that could accommodate everyone, and the soft, neutral shades in the room create a welcoming feel. A custom-designed wall behind the TV adds both texture and visual interest, and the space feels warm without being overwhelming.

For the snug, which is just off the kitchen, I wanted to create a cozy yet stylish retreat. We added a feature wallpaper to elevate the space and bring in a bit of pattern. This made the room feel special without feeling too busy, a perfect space for the family to relax.

Where Function Meets Style

The kitchen was another area where we could really make an impact. With the extension, we gained a lot of space, so we focused on creating a practical layout with a touch of luxury. I chose aged brass accents to elevate the simple white and wood design, and we added dramatic marble-effect countertops and a stunning splashback to give the kitchen a timeless yet modern feel.

To keep things organized and family-friendly, we incorporated lots of custom cabinetry, including a breakfast cupboard that hides the toaster, coffee machine, and other essentials, keeping the countertops clear. The result is a spacious and functional kitchen that feels both stylish and lived-in.

Upstairs, the master bedroom became a peaceful haven with soft, calming tones and subtle wavy details in the bespoke headboard and dressing table. It’s a serene and comfortable space for Louise and James to unwind at the end of the day. The ensuite bathroom is equally luxurious, with a freestanding bath and aged brass fittings adding a touch of elegance.

The Importance of Details

One of the things I love most about this project is how Louise and I worked together to make sure every detail was just right. We spent a lot of time thinking about the finer elements that would elevate the design and make the space feel truly personal. The soft tones, the bespoke joinery, and the carefully chosen fabrics all add up to create a cohesive and welcoming home.

I always tell my clients that a successful design is about more than just picking out pretty furniture—it’s about creating a space that works for how you live while also reflecting your personality. Louise and James’ home is a perfect example of this. It’s sophisticated, timeless, and, most importantly, it’s a place where their family can truly thrive.

A Collaborative Process

What made this project particularly enjoyable was the strong collaboration between Louise and me. She had a clear vision, and I was able to take that vision and make it a reality. Whether it was selecting fabrics, designing bespoke furniture, or making sure every space had its own unique charm, the process was incredibly fulfilling.

If you’re feeling stuck in your own home renovation or redesign, remember that sometimes a fresh perspective can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to update a few rooms or completely transform your space, working with an experienced interior designer can help you turn your house into the home of your dreams.

Ready to Transform Your Home?

If you're looking to refresh your space and make it work for your lifestyle, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can create a home that’s not just beautiful but functional, personal, and, most importantly, yours. Let's bring your vision to life!