Inside Our Knightsbridge Boutique Project

Delicate romanticism meets curated modernity at our Knightsbridge boutique project

We are delighted to share the completion of our latest work: the full redesign and refurbishment of an exquisite Grade II listed townhouse, now presented as our Knightsbridge boutique project. Tucked discreetly at the end of Knightsbridge’s only private road, this exceptional home has been reimagined through a narrative that marries delicate romanticism with curated modernity, an approach that honours its distinguished heritage while shaping it for contemporary living.

Reinterpreting a storied past

The property’s remarkable history played a significant role in shaping our design direction. Once home to Charles Stewart Rolls, co-founder of Rolls-Royce, and later stewarded by The Royal Academy of Dancing during Dame Margot Fonteyn’s presidency, the townhouse carries a unique cultural resonance. We embraced these layers of history, drawing inspiration not by replicating the past, but by reframing it through classical references, warm materials and fluid architectural forms.

Inspired by neighbouring landmarks such as Kent House, we introduced arches, softened with modern curves, textural elements and a serene, neutral palette. The result is a reimagined classicism, calm, elegant and deeply connected to its surroundings.

As Teody Lopez, Design Director, reflects:
“We looked to local architecture for inspiration, such as neighbouring Kent House, bringing in classical arches and combining them with smooth curves and a controlled use of colour. The result is curated modernity: a pleasing fusion of old and new.”

A client partnership grounded in trust

From the outset, our role extended far beyond interior design. We worked closely with our clients at every stage, offering guidance on appointments, strategy and broader decision-making while shaping every detail of the home. This collaborative approach is integral to how we work.

As our Founder & CEO, Karen Howes, notes:
“This project typifies the unique way we approach client relationships at Taylor Howes. We’ve been involved in every detail of this transformation from the outset – guiding and supporting our clients in regard to the appointment of agents and the marketing strategy, as well as delivering exceptional design.”

A home shaped by light, flow and refined tranquillity

As guests arrive, they are met by a sculptural curved staircase with a bronze balustrade and Taj Mahal marble steps, setting a tone of elegance and craftsmanship. Above it, a cascading teal glass chandelier from Sans Souci Lighting creates an ethereal play of light, an installation that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Limestone flooring leads into the formal reception rooms, where classical panelling and a restrained colour palette provide a backdrop for carefully curated furniture and lighting. The interplay between classical references and modern detailing is quietly harmonious: the Breccia Medicea fireplace, curved Crittall doors, and bespoke oak joinery all contribute to a sense of calm grandeur.

As Lead Senior Designer Alice Hales explains:
“Elements such as the Breccia Medicea marble fireplace, with its unusual pink and yellow tones, look like they’ve always been there, but they’re distinctly contemporary. The curved Crittall doors make a nod to classical archways while allowing light to flow generously through the entertaining spaces, creating beautiful vistas that draw the eye.”

To the rear of the house, the bespoke kitchen by Kitchen Architecture features custom-stained oak cabinetry, suede banquette seating and fluted glass cupboards. Soft brass accents, bouclé textures and natural oak tones give the space a warm, inviting feel, ideal for both family life and entertaining.

Private spaces with a quiet romanticism

Upstairs, the master suite has been designed as a serene retreat. A bespoke oversized headboard upholstered in a luxurious paper weave, paired with antique brass detailing and sculptural glass pendants, sets the tone for a refined, romantic atmosphere. The Parisian-style dressing table sits by the window, drawing in views of the mews courtyard, while the master en suite showcases Lilac marble, a freestanding curved bath and an overscale vanity.

The guest suites continue this soft romanticism with warm Graphenstone palettes, raffia wallcoverings, voile curtains and curved bouclé accents, creating restful, atmospheric spaces.

A sanctuary beneath the home

In the newly created basement, we shifted the palette to a more immersive, earthy tone to frame the cinema room, gym, spa and additional bedrooms. Rich faux suede panelling, olive velvet sofas and a bar crafted from Strati di Pietra marble create a cocooning feel in the cinema, complemented by artwork celebrating the Rolls family legacy.

A project built on craft and sensitivity

Across two years of meticulous work, we sought to create a home that honours its heritage while embracing the sensibilities of contemporary living. Natural light played a pivotal role in shaping the scheme, inspiring us to design a layered lighting strategy featuring chandeliers, architectural spotlights and decorative pieces that enhance both the art and the architecture.

As Teody Lopez shares:
“The natural light at our Knightsbridge boutique project is extraordinary, so we worked hard to design a transitional lighting scheme featuring chandeliers, wall lights and architectural spotlights to complement the bold artwork. The use of luxurious, layered textures – from grass cloth wallpaper and Tadelakt plaster to burr wood and soft wool – creates an inviting fusion of contemporary and traditional.”

What stands today is a home imbued with calm grandeur, crafted through collaboration, heritage sensitivity and a design language that balances modernity with timeless elegance. The Knightsbridge boutique project reflects not only the architectural significance of the building, but the deep trust shared between our team and our clients, an essential foundation for every Taylor Howes transformation.