Transforming a former vicarage and nursery school into a harmonious family home is an intriguing challenge, and interior designer Rebecca Wakefield embraced this task with enthusiasm. This article delves into her creative process, highlighting how she seamlessly blended functionality with a playful touch while preserving the building's rich history. The result is a space that exudes warmth and character, a testament to Wakefield's skill in reclaiming and reimagining spaces.
One of the key challenges was the building's unusual history and unsympathetic additions, including fire-rated doors, miniature sinks, and commercial-grade kitchen fixtures. Wakefield's approach was to work closely with the clients, understanding their vision for a unique family home. She collaborated with local architect Emmett Russell to navigate the planning permissions and technical drawings, ensuring a cohesive and well-thought-out design.
Wakefield's design philosophy revolves around reclaiming spaces while reimagining their purpose. This tension between preservation and innovation is evident in her work. In the case of the vicarage, she aimed to create a harmonious blend of the building's original charm and the family's modern needs. The ornate ceilings and leaded windows showcased the fine craftsmanship of the past, while the high-gloss finish on the woodwork preserved its integrity.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the project was the floor choices. Wakefield sourced a double wenge herringbone parquet for the kitchen, sitting room, and snug, mirroring the elaborate detailing within the ceilings and windows. This pattern, she explains, helps to balance the architectural features and create a cohesive aesthetic. In the hallway, a more intricate mansion-weave was used, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Color played a significant role in the design. Wakefield highlighted certain areas with bold statements, such as the back of the bookcases in the hallway, painted in Farrow & Ball's fiery 'Charlotte's Locks'. This shade, she notes, was personal to the family, especially given their son's striking red hair. The color is echoed in the kitchen island and around the front door, creating a cohesive and vibrant atmosphere.
The former playroom was transformed into an elegant yet practical kitchen. Wakefield designed the units to showcase the clients' collection of ceramics, table linen, and cookware, ensuring a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. A newly created opening onto the garden, fitted with traditional French windows, fosters a better connection with the outdoors.
Wakefield's design choices extend beyond the interior. She cleverly stretched the budget by mixing premium pieces with vintage and high-street finds. Bedside tables from Habitat, wall mirrors from Zara Home, and chairs from West Elm create a seamless blend of styles. Armchairs from Love Your Home are elevated with custom fabric choices, featuring strong prints from House of Hackney and Guy Goodfellow Collection.
The main bedroom suite showcases a mulberry-colored checked fabric by Jessica Osborne, lending a graphic touch to the walk-in bathroom. This fabric is repeated around the opening to the couple's dressing room, creating a cohesive and stylish atmosphere.
In conclusion, Rebecca Wakefield's transformation of the former vicarage and nursery school into a happy and harmonious family home is a testament to her skill and creativity. Her ability to blend functionality, playfulness, and historical preservation has resulted in a space that exudes warmth and character, a true reflection of her design philosophy.
