I know that not many people seem to be viewing the current series of Grand Designs due to Sir Alan Sugar's search for his 6th 'Apprentice' but if you watch any episode, be sure to make it this one.
Series 7 - Episode 29 features a Scandinavian influenced build in Cornwall by interior designer Kathryn Tyler.
It is nice to see that Kathryn refreshingly has kept away from the ever more common International Style modern aesthetic in this build. To me this is why the house is such an outstanding sucess, alongside the beautiful furnishings of course. Here are some points which made this Grand Design something special: Kathryn has snubbed the standard modern smooth white concrete walls by using painted white bricks instead which add physical and aesthetical texture, and the contrast with the cedar wood cladding is beautiful. The interior doesn't have the impeccable, uh oh there's a spoon out of place, minimalist feel you would expect to find in a modern build; instead she has utilised open storage to make the house feel more like a home for living than an exhibition space (phew). Her use of wood in the interior and exterior of the build creates a cosy warm human friendly environment in comparision to the industrial feel of metal etc. Kathryn's approach to the build is excellent, she knows what she wants and what works well and her knowledge of good design, most notably of the Mid-Century and Scandinavian style, is very admirable.
Ernest Race's Antelope chair confirmed her great taste (my favourite chair)
Beautiful vintage Scandinavian furniture
I've had ideas for designing a house of my own for many years but to be truthful I wouldn't change a great deal of what Kathryn has created. The only down side to the episode is the dissapointment of knowing my house probably won't feature in a future Grand Designs; It would be too similar. But I can live with that.
The images alone do not do the house any where near enough justice, you can view the episode on 4oD by following this link.
I agree with you on this episode (watched on re-runs). I was taken by Kathryn's staunchness in making something uncool, very cool indeed. The deliberate choice of whitewashing the bricks made me (and Kevin) shake our heads, but the end result was outstanding.
ReplyDeleteAs avid Op-shoppers and Garage Salers ourselves, the opening of Kathryn's treasure trove of collectable furniture and odd pieces was quite intriguing.
We own a very ugly brick house, and because of this episode are contemplating whitewashing the front and re-modelling in this style.