I am adding an armoire to a small room: what's a good depth to hang clothes that won't eat into space?
Really, you need an internal depth of 60 centimetres to accommodate hanging clothes, and an armoire can be a bulky addition to a small space. If this is a guest room it may be better to install simple shaker hooks wall to wall. If a more permanent solution is needed for regular use you can find some wardrobes with a hanging rail installed front to back - you tend not to get as much hanging space but it means the depth of the wardrobe can be less. Chelsea textiles does a great one.
Built-in vs antique or new furniture- what's the right mix?
The most successful projects combine old and new in an eclectic mix that feels both curated and collected over a lifetime. On projects we are involved in we work hard to find pieces from different periods that work together alongside modern "work horse" pieces (like sofas or armchairs). But really at the heart of a well designed home is an abundance of joinery which ticks off lots of practical requirements.
Do you have any ideas for shoe storage in a very narrow Victorian hallway?
This can be a real dilemma in terraced houses. We try to use the space underneath the stairs for shoe storage in deep pull out drawers - if this isn’t available because another flight of stairs runs below then you could place a trunk in the reception room to take shoes.
How many different colours of wood is too many for one room?
We always work on the basis that wood finishes need to relate to each other tonally; that is to say they should be from the same family of colours. For example we would never put a honey yellow oak in a room with a dark brown hued timber floor, but as long as you stick to the same root family of colour it will work: think 50 shades of brown! We are at pains at the ordering stage of a project to review finishes carefully - small details like the leg colour of a sofa can either create harmony or jar.
Is window seat storage sensible? Do you miss out on insulation below the window?
We love a window seat and often include one in our designs - after all windows are there to looked out of and what better way to do that than curled up comfortably in front of one. There are also storage benefits to a window seat - a handy spot for hiding unsightly things though bear in mind that in reality the volume beneath the seat isn't huge, so don't pin your hopes on being able to store everything but the kitchen sink in there. Many designers like to place radiators beneath a window to take off the chill from the glazing but this wouldn't stop us from putting in a window seat too. You can find some great low or wide cast iron radiators that work brilliantly below the seat offering the added benefit of a warmed seat cushion to perch on!
Can a small kitchen hold freestanding units or is a fitted kitchen better in a small space?
Really the best way to make the most of a small space is to carefully design built-in units. Working with a joiner who can specially make units rather than relying on modular systems ensures you can make every inch count. And do lots of research into appliances because is amazing how many good combination machines now exist which will save you space.
Do you have any ideas for under-bed storage for a teenage girl’s bedroom that isn’t hideous plastic tubs?
You could use a simple trundle base on wheels - designed to hold a mattress but also a very good large storage vehicle. Great Little Trading Co. has some brilliant options!
What are some stylish ways to store children’s toys?
If not behind cupboard doors (which feels the obvious, if impractical answer!), try good rattan baskets on shelves. They do wonders at hiding not so eye-catching plastic toys. A big trunk that doubles up as a coffee table can also provide valuable extra storage. And one of our favourite "playroom" solutions is to design an inbuilt sofa-cum-bench seating with deep drawers beneath that you can throw all sorts into - it's also easily accessible for the kids to find things.
I have a big empty wall with a bed and bedside tables. What are my options to make it interesting?
This is a great space for a gallery hang. Start off with a handful of pictures and arrange them organically above the headboard. You can collect anything from favourite postcards to kids' drawings – the more eclectic the better. Then add to it over time for maximum impact.
