My favorite holiday growing up was Halloween, but not for the reasons you might think. Of course I enjoyed the dressing up and the devouring, but the real treat for me was getting invited into the neigbors’ homes. While the other kids took their time deciding between Snickers and Hershey bars, I was busy snooping around and taking mental notes.
The nascent design enthusiast in me would have filed this remodel of an Edwardian house under “Dark Shadows.” Halloween seemed like an opportune moment to tour its moody interiors by London-based Found Associates, who made use of black elements as a way to link past and present while introducing an edgy vibe.
Images via The Shoot Factory, except where noted.
Above: The faí§ade of the Edwardian villa has been restored; you’d never guess there’s a modern glass addition in the rear. Photo via Found Associates.
Above: Upon entering, guests are greeted by an unusual tile floor, a Moor and Victorian mash-up with black tiles interspersed.
Above: A black writing desk sets the tone in the stair hall.
Above: The otherwise subdued living room features a surprising artwork.
Above: An outsized print of a skull says “haunted but chic.”
Above: The library with modernist desk, moveable book ladder, and shuttered windows. Photo via Found Associates.
Above: A playroom opens onto the new kitchen extension.
Above: A black storage wall complements the plinth-like marble kitchen island.
Above: Found Associates constructed a minimalist extension to contrast with the existing Edwardian building, which they refurbished as well. The Classic Well Glass Pendants by English company Davey are $325.25 (on sale from $385) at Design Within Reach.
Above: A black-painted accent wall in the dining pavilion.
Above: The living area is furnished with Antonio Citterio’s Charles sofa in black (see The Ultimate Architect-Designed Sofa).
Above: In a bedroom, the fireplace’s black columns are matched by column-like lamps across the room.
Above: A black leather-covered headboard runs horizontally between the door frames and anchors the room.
Above: Painting the ceilings, trim, and walls the same color creates an overall sense of calm.
Above: Mid-century furnishings and accessories mix in with a Victorian-style bathtub and subway tiles.
Above: Black crops up in the bathroom unexpectedly in the rim of the tub and base of the vanity.
Above: An ornately framed antique mantel mirror has been painted black for a dramatic effect.
Above: Subway tiled walls lend a Victorian institutional air to another bathroom.
A black house is an alluring and daring prospect. Peruse our favorites in 10 Traditional Houses Gone to the Dark Side. Wondering which black to use? Go to Black Magic: Architects’ 8 Top Paint Picks.
Want to see more work by Found Associates? See Jamie Theakston’s Townhouse in Notting Hill.
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