Contemporary Design: Victorian Townhouse in London

Discover a stunning Victorian townhouse renovation in Islington, blending historic charm with contemporary design by Tabitha Isobel.

In the vibrant heart of Islington, London, a remarkable transformation is taking place within an end-of-terrace Victorian townhouse, showcasing the power of contemporary design. Spearheaded by the innovative designer Tabitha Isobel, this renovation beautifully blends historic charm with modern aesthetics, creating a space that is both timeless and forward-thinking.

Founded in February 2023 by Tabitha Organ this project marks a stunning debut for the studio and sets a new standard in interior design.

Contemporary Design living room with cream walls and with a statement green marble fireplace and with a statement art piece and with a built-in shelves and with an armchair

A Conceptual Journey: “Back to the Future”

At the heart of this ambitious renovation is the playful yet profound concept titled “Back to the Future.” This guiding vision aims to honor the building’s rich Victorian heritage while seamlessly integrating contemporary design elements that resonate with today’s lifestyles.

Tabitha’s approach is grounded in three fundamental design principles that shaped every aspect of the renovation:

A Confident and Timeless Backdrop: The project begins with a foundation that embraces classic aesthetics, providing a backdrop that feels both enduring and sophisticated while allowing contemporary design elements to shine.
Unique and Tactile Touch Points: Throughout the townhouse, Tabitha has incorporated distinctive features that invite interaction, creating an environment where every detail contributes to a cohesive contemporary design experience.
Elements that are Outspoken and Loud: The design embraces boldness, featuring striking elements that demand attention and celebrate the vibrancy of modern living.

Contemporary Design living room with a statement green marble fireplace and with a statement art piece

Contemporary Design house with built-in shelves and with wood floors and with a green kitchen

An Enveloping Interior Experience

Stepping inside, the transformation of the interior is nothing short of breathtaking. The lower ground floor has been reimagined into a members’ lounge-style space designed for relaxation and entertainment. Complete with a cinema room and DJ area, this vibrant setting embodies the dynamic energy of contemporary design, showcasing rich textures and moody colors that create an inviting atmosphere. This multifunctional space invites social gatherings while offering intimate corners for personal retreat.

A hallmark of Tabitha’s approach is her commitment to sustainability. Instead of completely overhauling the recently installed kitchen, she opted for an eco-friendly solution. New bespoke Pear Green tulip-wood veneered doors were fitted onto existing carcasses, paired with chunky chrome handles. This thoughtful choice minimizes waste while adding an elegant touch, proving that contemporary design can be both stylish and sustainable.

The kitchen’s functionality is further enhanced by the addition of a cozy breakfast nook with banquette seating, maximizing the light-filled corner and creating a perfect spot for casual gatherings and morning coffee. This intentional layout encourages family interaction and elevates the overall dining experience.

Contemporary Design cinema room with green walls and with a terracotta rug and with a large green sectional sofa

Contemporary Design kitchen with green cabinets and with iron appliances and with wood floors

A Harmonious Living and Dining Space

The open-plan living and dining area serves as the heart of the home, anchored by a striking Green Marble Fireplace, which functions as both a warming feature and a stunning piece of art. This centerpiece is complemented by a bespoke oak and metal TV box, reflecting Tabitha’s philosophy of blending form and function in contemporary design.

A curated mix of vintage and contemporary furniture brings the space to life, creating a dynamic energy that speaks to the eclectic spirit of modern living. Chrome accents throughout the room tie various elements together, enhancing visual harmony and ensuring that each piece contributes to the overall narrative of the home.

Contemporary Design living room with large windows and with a curved sectional green sofa and with wood floors

Contemporary Design dining room with light green walls and with a black dining table and with dark dining chairs and with a silver lamp

A Master Suite Reimagined

On the first floor, the master suite has undergone a significant reconfiguration, transforming it into a serene sanctuary. The new layout introduces a generous walk-through wardrobe that leads to a spacious en-suite, merging functionality with luxury. This thoughtful design maximizes space while elevating the overall experience of the suite.

The bedroom itself is a testament to Tabitha’s keen eye for color and texture, featuring a harmonious palette that includes vibrant blues, warm chocolate tones, and subtle mushroom and caramel hues. This careful selection creates a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, inviting relaxation and tranquility at the end of a busy day.

Contemporary Design bedroom with cream walls and with a wood walk-in closet

Contemporary Design bedroom with cream walls and with a large bed and with a wooden headboard

Collaboration and Vision

Tabitha’s success in this renovation is not solely attributed to her design skills but also to her collaborative approach. “This project is a project of firsts,” she shares, highlighting the importance of working with an open-minded and adventurous client. This partnership allowed Tabitha to push boundaries and explore bold ideas, resulting in a home that reflects both the client’s personality and her visionary contemporary design.

Her philosophy of blending vintage and contemporary pieces is evident throughout the townhouse. “I love to combine vintage and antique furniture with new contemporary pieces. However, the balance is important, and I like to find the equilibrium,” she notes. This approach not only adds depth to the design but also honors the home’s historical context while embracing modernity.

Contemporary Design living room with green walls and with a dark brown sofa

Contemporary Design bathroom with red tiled walls and floors and with a dark wood cabinet and with a large bathtub

A Promising Future

The Islington townhouse renovation is more than just a restoration: it is a celebration of heritage, creativity, and innovation through contemporary design. Tabitha Isobel’s commitment to creating spaces that honor the past while embracing the future is evident in every corner of this stunning home. This project showcases her exceptional talent and signals exciting possibilities for her studio in the world of interior design.

As we look ahead, the integration of thoughtful contemporary design and sustainable practices will undoubtedly inspire future projects, encouraging others to explore the potential of blending heritage with modern living. This renovation stands as a testament to the beauty that can be achieved when creativity meets respect for history, inviting us all to reimagine what home can truly be.

If you’re inspired by this stunning transformation and are looking to embark on your own journey of contemporary design, consider exploring the unique pieces offered by Marnois. Our curated collection features exquisite furniture and decor that seamlessly blend vintage charm with modern elegance, allowing you to create spaces that truly reflect your personal style. Discover how our carefully selected pieces can elevate your home and bring your vision to life!