A full design and build service with the brief to create an open and flexible 1-2 bedroom apartment

For a listed three-bedroom apartment in a stucco-fronted building, RMD was commissioned to provide a full design and build service with the brief to create an open and flexible 1-2 bedroom apartment with architectural references that reflected our client’s background as a bespoke jewellery designer and her interest in collecting modern art and furniture.

Major structural works and design were carried out while negotiating and liaising with the listed building department and building control.

RMD provided a full concept design and space planning service with detailed design, project management and build solution.

RMD was initially appointed by our client pre-purchase to review and advise on the possibilities for modernisation and conversion of the property. The brief was to create a visually modern space that provided flexible accommodation with a well-detailed and neutral architectural background, against which the client could display her eclectic collection of art and furniture.

RMD designed a scheme that totally opened up the apartment latitudinally to provide large open spaces that could be seperated by a series of full-height folding and sliding doors. We added a large storage wall utilising the significant ceiling height uncovered once the modern drop ceiling had been removed, and restored all the original plasterwork cornices and rosettes that has been hidden for the last 35 years.

A three metre high back-lit bookshelf with doors concealing a large storage cupboard was installed in the entrance corridor to store skis, a bicycle and other sports equipment.

The salon and dining room where divided by large white lacquered sliding doors which seamlessly disappeared when opened into the cavity of the dividing wall. The kitchen opened up into the salon and was defined by a limestone counter with lacquer units below that housed all the appliances. A 4x3m high storage unit positioned on the back wall to the kitchen housed a sink, cooker and dishwasher as well as ample storage space. This allowed our client to close the kitchen off from the main space quickly and easily, and provided huge flexibility in the space when guests were present.

Using the full height of the bathroom (2.75 metres) we added steps leading up to a sunken bath and integrated a basin pedestal with shower, storage and toilet all ergonomically considered and designed into this very compact space. The entire bathroom was clad in French limestone and sealed against porosity. We added a toilet to the master bedroom, hidden within a storage wall that also housed bespoke wardrobes.

Using limestone tiles, stainless steel, mirror and white lacquer throughout the space, the palette was kept simple and fresh, creating a canvas for the client’s own artwork and eclectic artefacts. RMD fastidiously preserved the existing plaster features from the 1920s, sensitively installing modern interventions that complemented the existing architecture. Lights were set in floating pelmets at the ceiling line in order not to compromise the listed ceiling with its intricate rosettes and cornicing. Sash windows and shutters were restored with classic modern fittings to enhance security and weatherproof integrity. Ceiling speakers and a high-tech audio-visual system were installed to be operated independently from each room. A 51” plasma screen was fitted to appear from behind a wall panel that fitted flush when closed.

RMD provided a full design and build service, supplying a detailed design package, project management and a construction solution on a structurally complex project that involved a high level of bespoke design. Liaising with the listed building department and building control the project was successfully completed on budget and within the nine-month build programme initially requested by the client.

RMD is experienced in advising our clients regarding the maintenance of the equity value of their property throughout a project. This was an extremely rare apartment when completed: a potential three-bed flat had been converted and opened up into to a 1-2 bed apartment which was successfully sold three years later for a record price.