Old War Office

On a residential street in Westminster lies a former war office, transformed by Harrods Interior Design into a comfortable family home. The team were tasked with combining the property’s British heritage with contemporary influences. Their goal was to create a unique home away from home with a one-of-a-kind story.

To reveal its past, the old war office’s original wood and mosaic-tile flooring was restored. Panelling was reinstated on the walls, which have a sophisticated metallic finish, and crystal chandeliers were installed throughout to create a classical look and feel. The hallway’s grand proportions were balanced with decorative objects and British-made furniture. To complement the floor tiles, a console table clad in Sahara Noir marble was introduced.

The Harrods Interior Design team were inspired by Edwardian décor. In the living room, soft blues, pinks, and greens were used to create a historical mood. To encourage conviviality, the team designed a bespoke fireplace with Calacatta Oro marble and leather panelling. Grounded by a unique Frato sofa, with Art Deco-style fluting, the living room effortlessly balances the traditional and the modern.

In the study, a standout leather desk was personalised with Harrods-green drawer inserts. The team took a minimalist approach to this room. It was subtly enhanced by elegant gold detailing and styled with a handful of decorative objects.

To create a regal ambience in the master bedroom, the team used chinoiserie silk wall panels and silver Chambord bedding. The room’s breathtaking patterns, featuring magnolias, fruit trees and peonies, are inspired by British heritage. Ornate touches – think crystal lighting and marble side tables – further enhance the space and create a relaxing hotel-style atmosphere.

The second bedroom is youthful and feminine, comprising delicate florals and layers of soft pink. The team were inspired by an English garden and used silk wall panels adorned with botanical patterns as a focal point. A playful ombre-pink Murano-glass chandelier completes the room.

In the final bedroom, blue was accented with touches of gold – in a subtle nod to one of the Baroque period’s most significant colours. The supersized headboard was set with brass inlays to create sophisticated fluted panels. To complement the intricately patterned walls, the room was finished with silk curtains adorned with an Ancient Greek maze pattern on the trim.