Reworking a split-level home 

As a newer build, the house doesn’t have many classical architectural features, but it had a wonderful quirk; all the rooms sit on split levels, creating a series of staircases and layered spaces. This allowed Lydia to open up the layout and introduce Havwoods flooring in key areas, adding warmth and continuity throughout.

Being in a conservation area - the inspiration was drawn directly from its green surroundings. Natural materials, warmer woods and earthier textures were central to the concept, ensuring the interior felt connected to its setting. Lydia wanted the material language to flow through the entire home, so the wood flooring begins the moment you step through the front door, creating a sense of continuity and calm from the outset.

Lambton – a foundation of warmth

“The flooring was the most important decision in the design process. Originally, the house had high-gloss white ceramic tiles, white carpets in the dining and living areas, white walls and the previous owner’s white furniture, so everything felt very clinical and lacking in warmth. We immediately saw the potential and knew the flooring would be the foundation of the entire scheme. It was the first element we selected, as we felt it was exactly what the property needed to make it feel cosier and more inviting, somewhere you’d genuinely want to host dinner parties, entertain friends, and enjoy summer BBQs with the doors open”.

Lydia selected Lambton HW12102 from the H Collection to keep the palette light yet warm, as it worked beautifully when we were layering and scheming with contrasting textures throughout the house. Its tone worked effortlessly alongside the contrasting dark-stained timber kitchen, bespoke crafted in Germany, and waterfall quartz worktops that meet the floor for a sharp architectural finish. The result is a carefully balanced interplay between warmth and precision.

‘We wanted the flooring to feel cosy and warm for winter, yet light and fresh enough for summer, almost echoing the changing seasons and the beautiful green surroundings that frame the property”.

Delivering style and functionality

“After eight months of carefully refining the layout, the home now offers a generous open-plan kitchen, dining and day living space, complemented by a separate living room. The reconfiguration has transformed how the house functions - creating connected areas for entertaining alongside quieter spaces for retreat.”