Question 1

How do you balance period character with modern living?

Accepted Answer

Old houses need to work for present-day life, but their character should not be flattened in the process. I look at practical needs such as layout, storage, lighting, furniture, and everyday use alongside the house’s architectural character. The aim is comfort, usefulness, and atmosphere without causing any harm or losing what makes the house worth caring about.

Question 2

Do you work in a particular style?

Accepted Answer

The starting point is always the house: its age, proportions, existing features, light, use, and character. Some rooms need restraint, whilst others can carry pattern, colour, antiques, and stronger decoration. The aim is to make choices that feel natural to the house and useful in daily life.

Question 3

What does design-first and house-first mean?

Accepted Answer

Design-first means that the work is concentrated on the important first stages in a design process. The research, the historical context of the house, spatial planning and understanding exactly what you and your house need. House-first means that the house itself is an important client and will be respected throughout.

Question 4

Do you only work on old houses?

Accepted Answer

Whilst old houses are my speciality, I am more than happy to discuss and help you with your newer house that is in need of character and personality. Suitable features can be added, colour, texture and pattern can be made to work very hard in a new house to create atmosphere.

STUDIO WALLANDER

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do you balance period character with modern living?

Do you work in a particular style?

What does design-first and house-first mean?

Do you only work on old houses?