Brian Woulfe explains why connection and creativity were the building blocks for the reimagining of this contemporary Maida Vale home.

From the outside, The Lighthouse appears to meld seamlessly with its traditional surroundings. Take a closer look, however, and it becomes clear that this is a house that stands out from its neighbours. An architecturally unique space, interior designer Brian Woulfe, of Designed by Woulfe, faced the challenge of uniting a modern framework with an inviting family feel.

Already settled in the space when they first approached the designer, homeowners Simon and Lizzie had a clear concept in mind. “Their brief was strong from the get-go,” recalls Brian. “They had a deep understanding of how they moved through the home, and we were very in sync on our thoughts for the design: enhance the connectivity of the space, inject energy and bring a sense of their personalities into the home.”

The house, originally designed by Hugo Tugman at Tugman Partnership, presented itself as a blank canvas. White walls and open spaces – including a triple height void – spoke to the homeowners’ love for open-plan living, while the pared-back design presented an opportunity to reimagine the interiors. “The existing architecture was visually very strong,” Brian says. “We wanted to lean into its strengths and inject more warmth and texture with design that would reflect who the homeowners are.

“It was about taking that blank canvas and transforming it into a home,” he explains. “We introduced more colour, though with natural, earthy tones, and added layers of texture that would invite you to really experience the space.”  Not without its challenges, the home’s architectural quirks – including a living room wall that veers off at an unexpected angle – required a creative approach. 

“We designed and sourced pieces to fit perfectly into these spaces,” Brian notes. Narrow entrances added an additional layer of complexity, demanding designs that balanced accessibility with aesthetics. “Bespoke beds, custom headboards, dining furniture – everything was chosen not only to fit the unique character of the home, but to fit through the door,” he smiles. 

Showcasing Brian’s exceptional attention to detail, closer inspection reveals individual pieces that echo the home’s architecture. From a curving sofa to a bespoke console made using CNC cut metal, every element appears tailored to the house and its owners.

With such a contemporary framework, he adds that there are very few, if any, traditional aspects to the home. “We didn’t want to impose historical details onto what is a very modern property,” he muses. “It was important not to intrude too heavily on the architectural look and feel of the building. Instead, we used lightweight materials and minimalist design to accentuate the building’s bones.”

Citing the home’s central void as an example, Brian explains that they chose pendant lights to pick up on the linear details and allow an unimpeded view through to the library upstairs. “It’s one of my favourite features,” he adds. “The connectivity between these spaces was something we really wanted to accentuate.”

Key to the transformation was a focus on sustainable design. Locally sourced materials and repurposed goods are used throughout, from bespoke upholstery made just outside of London to an ancient Persian rug that grounds the living room. “Sustainability is always at the forefront of our designs,” Brian affirms. “The lighting was upgraded to LED, and we used sustainable paint from Argile. We always want to create beautiful spaces that are also conscious of their impact on the environment.”

For Brian, living in the Maida Vale area himself adds a personal connection to the project. Speaking fondly of the neighbourhood, he describes it as a sanctuary within the hustle and bustle of London. “It’s really quite a unique part of London,” he reflects. “There are lots of quaint streets and hidden gems – cafés, bars and restaurants that all give the neighbourhood a distinctive character. The home itself is so unexpected here, I think it’s something pretty special.” 

The Lighthouse is available for vacation rental from £1,000 per night.