Katharine Pooley

While alpine chalets are often associated with snow-covered peaks and cosy winter retreats, they are equally enchanting during the summer months. This tablescape celebrates the beauty of the Alps in warmer weather, when wildflowers bloom across the mountainsides.

View the project in full on my website - katharinepooley.com - under 'Alpine Ski Chalet' in the Portfolio.

When we worked on the restoration of of of the Apartments in the Heritage Listed Millbank Apartment on London's Thames, I wanted to celebrate the remarkable architectural legacy of Grade II-listed structure, one of Westminster’s most significant buildings.

Originally designed by renowned architect Frank Baines and formerly home to the chairman’s office of Imperial Chemical Industries, the building is distinguished by its grand proportions, original walnut panelling, carved timber detailing, parquet flooring and exceptional views.

Throughout the restoration, preserving these historic features was paramount while the design approach focused on allowing the building’s original character to take centre stage - my team and I carefully restored and enhanced its architectural fabric while introducing contemporary luxury in a manner that respected its heritage in details like whimsy feather embroidered wallpaper emulating the exterior peacock motifs.

The grand Ballroom at our Cannes Château celebrates the Estate’s restored symmetry and its natural connection to its surrounding gardens. ⁠
⁠
Hand-painted moon-gold parchment panels depict the original Japanese garden while bespoke marquetry inspired by botanical forms envelopes the bar. Elegant parquet flooring creates the foundation for a richly layered space designed to celebrate the art of entertaining.⁠
⁠

As we celebrate National Volunteers' Week, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the importance of giving back and the extraordinary impact that volunteering can have within our communities.

Over the years, it has been a privilege for our Studio to support and the vital work they do to help children experiencing poverty across London. Through volunteering initiatives and fundraising efforts, we have seen first-hand the difference that collective action can make.

What continues to inspire me most is the generosity of time, energy and compassion shown by not only my Team, but all volunteers. These contributions often happen quietly, yet their impact can be truly life-changing. I am incredibly proud of our continued commitment to supporting such an important cause, and grateful to The Childhood Trust for the remarkable work they do every day.

At the beginning of this project, I proposed uniting the drawing room and dining room into one impressive, light-filled space We completed extensive structural works to open the two rooms into a single enfilade while preserving the listed panelling and ornate cornice work.

As the most formal entertaining space, the dining room features Venetian twisted candelabra wall lights and a Weldon’s Versailles parquet timber floor. The elaborate plasterwork is painted in a very soft blue to match the walls - Lead II by Paint & Paper Library - a cool counterpoint to the warmth of the oak floor.

This bathroom is one of our team favourites from over the years. Its serene but also quietly theatrical, with the soft violet veining in the lavender marble wrapping every surface in a dreamy cloud. The crystal-framed mirror acts as the jewellery piece of the room, catching the light and adding a delicate glamour against the cool stone backdrop.

I didn't want to take away from the drama of the natural textures speaking for themselves so for the sanitaryware and cabinetry, I went with a sleek and shiny silver tone to harmonise with the hues across the stonework.

Delighted to be featured in Summer Magazine, sharing thoughts on the importance of creating memorable entryways and first impressions within the home. As the first space to welcome guests, an entrance hall sets the tone for everything that follows.

"... A well-chosen statement light can instantly elevate an entrance hall, creating a memorable and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive."

Read the full piece online at dexters.co.ul or by picking up a copy at your local London newsstand.

Each year Chelsea in Bloom transforms our streets into an extraordinary celebration of creativity, bringing an unmistakable energy to our neighbourhood.

We love this year’s theme - 'Out of This World,' inviting visitors into a celestial world of space-inspired installations, with imaginative interpretations of planets, stars and cosmic wonder appearing across Chelsea. Here are a few Fabric Boards inspired by our favourite installations! 💫

is a time of design, discovery and conversation, and as a Studio we are fortunate to have it right in our backyard.

Installations hidden inside St James’ Church, the beautiful interiors of the lauded Garden Party - CDW unfolds across the streets of London and the energy is contagious.

Here are some of our highlights from the past week.