ABOUT

Located in the heart of Bath, Chapel Row is a Grade II listed terrace of Georgian townhouses dating from around 1734, designed by renowned architect John Wood the Elder. With its beautiful limestone façade and distinctive period detailing, the property called for a thoughtful design approach that respected its architectural heritage while making it feel warm, welcoming and personal.

The clients contacted Khaya Studio before they had even purchased the property, keen to involve us from the very beginning. Our brief focused on transforming the stairwell and basement dining room.

In the stairwell, the clients wanted to introduce wallpaper but were nervous about choosing a design for such a well-used space. They fell in love with a leafy green William Morris pattern, which brings the outdoors in and creates a lovely sense of freshness, particularly welcome given the property's modest city-centre courtyard garden.

The basement dining room felt cold and lacked character, with tiled flooring and limited natural light. I was immediately drawn to the original stone fireplace and wanted to make it the focal point once again. Rather than leave it unused, we transformed the opening into practical shelving for recipe books and reading material, painted in a deep, earthy red to bring warmth and presence to the room. Soft blue walls, a coordinating red rug, and carefully layered lighting complete the scheme. A generous reclaimed mirror helps reflect natural light, while a chandelier, wall lights and integrated shelf lighting create atmosphere throughout the day.

The result is a home that feels as though it has always been this way. The stairwell has gained personality, while the dining room is now a warm, inviting space designed for everyday family life. A sympathetic blend of Georgian character, thoughtful functionality and considered colour has given these spaces a renewed sense of purpose.