 Breadcrumbs

 [Home](/) &gt; [Explore This Reimagined London Townhouse](/markdownify/node/3676)  



   ![Explore This Reimagined London Townhouse](https://media.slman.com/7ClM4go2_eMkhjpwc48oL82Avzo=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300725-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-portrait.jpg?itok=w3EpE2MN)

  

 

 



 

 

 [Life](/life) 

 



 /  02 July 2025  

#  Explore This Reimagined London Townhouse  


 When interior designer Rachael Gowdridge was asked to restore and reimagine a Georgian townhouse in Clerkenwell, she decided to work within the property’s existing footprint to transform it into a layered, welcoming home. Choosing to retain some of original elements like the kitchen carcasses, timber floorboards and pieces of client-owned furniture, the result is a thoughtful and tactile space. Here, Rachael gives us the tour…  
 

 



 

 

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

 



 

 

 

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/W3HNuQPXaxM15x5HXAXdFjlDBJw=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-05-089rt.jpg?itok=RnZZtpdI)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

 

## The Brief 

  

 

The client’s vision for her Georgian townhouse in Clerkenwell was to create a soulful, grounded home that reconnected with the building’s original character. Over time, the interiors had become fragmented, lacking warmth and cohesion. The brief called for a more considered, layered aesthetic that would feel comforting, lived-in and authentic. This included softening overly sleek spaces like the kitchen and bathrooms, while celebrating natural materials, period features and the idiosyncrasies of the historic structure.

Functionality was key – the spaces needed to support family life and entertaining, but always with a focus on texture, tactility and calm. Sustainability and reusing existing materials and furniture where possible were also important to the client. The kitchen was reworked with shaker doors and Calacatta Verde marble, opening up the space and reconnecting it to the home’s architecture. Each room reflects the client's desire for atmosphere and warmth: the dining room features textural zellige tiles and travertine, while the snug offers an intimate retreat with soft lighting and sculptural seating. The elegant first-floor living room balances Georgian grandeur with soft contemporary touches, and the main bedroom feels cocooning yet clean, thanks to bespoke joinery and bold, considered colour choices.

Throughout, natural materials, vintage furniture, layered textiles and artisan-made details create a grounded, collected aesthetic. The project is a testament to working with the bones of a period house while gently reinterpreting its interiors for modern life, achieving a home that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

Visit [RachaelGowdridge.com](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/)

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/iaugrzGhvxXe8IsGei4Z7xeICfM=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-small-landscape-1.jpg?itok=hS9X4Bmi)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

## LET'S TAKE THE TOUR 

 

 

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/AQnG5bT55RecZ1RCDSMHhTvkn6c=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-12-296rt.jpg?itok=5E-IZGfl)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

## The Kitchen 

  

 

The existing kitchen felt overly modern and disconnected from the Georgian fabric of the house. The brief was to bring it back into alignment with the period architecture, while creating a warm, soulful space – something grounded, informal, and central to daily family life.

We retained the original kitchen carcasses for both sustainability and budgetary reasons, then added bespoke shaker-style doors painted in a soft olive green to nod to traditional joinery. The worktops and upstands were replaced with Calacatta Verde marble, chosen for its painterly movement and gentle green veining. Overhead cupboards were removed in favour of a single timber shelf, lending the space a more open and considered aesthetic. The extractor was boxed in and finished by hand in plaster so it would feel more architectural and less like an appliance.

A central antique farmhouse table brings warmth and history to the space, surrounded by rush-seated vintage stools to keep things relaxed. Underfoot, a flatwoven striped rug offers texture and softness, while still allowing the original timber boards to shine through.

The timber shelf is styled with a collection of rustic ceramics, vintage paintings and practical glassware – objects that feel quietly personal and layered over time. Everyday items like wooden boards, cast iron cookware and stoneware bowls are kept visible and tactile. Floor-length Irish linen curtains filter the light and soften the architecture, while preserving the generous glazing.

Rug: [*Nordic Knots*](https://nordicknots.com/eu/product/elder-olive/)   
Wall Lights: [*Rose Uniacke*](https://www.roseuniacke.com/plaster-cone-hanging-light)   
Stools: [*1st Dibs*](https://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/seating/stools/set-of-4-mid-century-bar-stools-rush-seats-france-c-1960s/id-f_45270152/)    
Kitchen Unit Paint: [*Mylands*](https://mylands.com/products/serpentine?srsltid=AfmBOorXpfoZMIFRLDaSnH2kT66Q1o9q14ZNVRPrz2PSKZrFsO-2RNMn)   
Sink: [*Shaws of Darwen*](https://www.shawsofdarwen.com/our-range/apron-fronted-single-bowl-sinks/shaker-single-600/)

 

 

 



  [ ![](https://media.slman.com/HdRlQf21x8014RCrtYTOtrE6NTg=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-10-245rt.jpg?itok=YkHDabYV)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

  

 

  [ ![](https://media.slman.com/ETXr1LkHyM2lJyYGDveaHlFJ2ns=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-09-221rt.jpg?itok=tcEPjAI9)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

  

 

 



 

 

 

## The Dining Room 

  

 

This space was conceived as an atmospheric, multifunctional room, designed to transition effortlessly from quiet dinners to larger, more convivial gatherings. The fireplace was reclad in off-white zellige tiles to add texture, depth and a hand-crafted finish to the room’s focal point. At the centre, a sculptural vintage travertine table lends softness through its curved edges, while grounding the space with its natural tone and weight. The dining chairs, in oak and warm tan leather, strike the right balance between elegance and informality. Elsewhere, a warm-toned wool rug introduces a soft geometric pattern and helps define the zone. Overhead, an oversized pendant shade diffuses the light, lending intimacy and a gentle glow.

A rust-coloured velvet armchair in the corner is slightly unexpected, especially when paired with a graphic embroidered cushion for texture and contrast. Full-height linen curtains frame the garden doors, softening the natural light as it enters the room. A monochrome abstract artwork injects depth and contrast without disrupting the room’s calm palette. A cork-clad sideboard provides both storage and display, topped with a bold hand-painted vase and casually stacked books to keep the mood relaxed.

Table: [*1st Dibs*](https://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/tables/dining-room-tables/flower-shaped-top-travertine-dining-centre-table-italy-1970s/id-f_32519842/)   
Armchairs: [*George Smith*](https://www.georgesmith.com/product/fairhill-chair/)   
Armchair Fabric: [*Yarn Collective*](https://www.yarncollective.co.uk/marci/p/marci-galangal)   
Rug: [*Stark Carpet*](https://www.starkcarpet.com/baha-rug?c=rugmor%20106993a13)   
Fireplace Tiles: [*Zellige Tiles*](https://zellige-tiles.com/)

 

 

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/dAOQ9qFBEy9PFvg9qN0e6Ve7u0A=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-01-017rt.jpg?itok=eFNrRvON)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

 

 

## The Snug 

  

 

This was designed to be a calm, grounding retreat – a space to step away from the bustle of daily life and sink into reading, conversation or quiet reflection. The inspiration came from warm, textured interiors that layer natural materials in a collected, understated way.

The original floorboards were maintained, retaining their aged character and tactile surface. Walls were painted in a soft off-white to keep the room feeling light and open, despite its compact size. A sculptural plaster side table introduces a handmade, organic feel and gently offsets the room’s symmetry. Lighting was kept low and layered – a vintage concertina wall lamp and recessed alcove plaster downlight add glow without glare.

We also used the client’s existing corner sofa, upholstered in natural linen, which maximised both comfort and space efficiency. It was accessorised with deep cushions in olive and taupe tones, adding variation and tactility. A vintage Danish sheepskin chair offers a contrasting softness and sculptural silhouette.

An abstract artwork above the fireplace – an existing piece – anchors the wall and has the same warm ochre tones that echo the rest of the colour palette. A lightweight Roman blind in natural linen provides gentle privacy without adding visual weight. A large leafy plant in a ribbed ceramic planter adds height, softness, and a connection to nature into this intimate corner of the house.

Wall Light: [*Mariza Galani*](https://marizagalani.com/products/esoteric-wall-light-offwhite-ceramic)   
Rug: [*Benisouk*](https://benisouk.com/en-uk)   
Armchair: [*1st Dibs*](https://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/seating/slipper-chairs/jrgen-baekmark-slipper-chair-oak-shearling-fdb-mbler-denmark-1960s/id-f_30111812/)   
Scissor Light: [*Sigmar London*](https://www.sigmarlondon.com/collections/lighting/products/oak-sax-wall-lamp-erik-hansen-le-klint-1952)   
Drapery Fabric: [*East London Cloth*](https://eastlondoncloth.co.uk/collections/all)

 

 

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/YsYtnHejgFnJGQzSNC863pnW1EE=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-living-room-full-bleed.jpg?itok=zayYTY5S)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

## The Living Room 

  

 

On the first floor, the living room enjoys the grandest proportions in the house – soaring ceilings, deep skirtings and tall sash windows. The brief was to create a space that felt warm and welcoming despite its scale, balancing the room’s inherent Georgian elegance with softer, more contemporary layers of texture and tone.

We retained the original cornicing and marble fireplace, and added a new ceiling rose to reinstate a sense of architectural completeness. The walls were painted in a warm, chalky neutral that responds beautifully to changing daylight and unifies the room. Full-length Irish wool curtains, woven in a dense, tactile weave, help to soften the height of the windows while adding tonal richness. At the centre of the space, a live-edge timber coffee table adds a grounding, organic warmth that gently offsets the classical features.

A soft oat mohair sofa forms the heart of the seating area, layered with tonal cushions in mixed textures for comfort and visual depth. Shearling-covered lounge chairs and a thick wool rug tie the arrangement together and define the seating zone within the generous footprint.

A large vintage circular mirror above the fireplace bounces light around the room and reinforces the symmetry of the space. On the opposite wall, a deep green abstract painting adds drama and a modern contrast to the otherwise muted palette. Accessories – including textured ceramics, low bowls, and art books – are styled with an easy elegance to keep the space feeling calm but characterful.

Sideboard: [*Alfred Newall*](https://www.alfrednewall.com/collections/reeded/products/reeded-bobbin-drinks-cabinet)   
Coffee Table: [*1st Dibs*](https://www.1stdibs.com/en-gb/furniture/tables/coffee-tables-cocktail-tables/large-coffee-table-bench-elm-ca-beijbom-simlingegard-1974-sweden/id-f_30801572/)   
Armchairs: [*Twenty Twenty One*](https://www.twentytwentyone.com/products/menu-sheepskin-knitting-chair-1951?variant=39316163919983)   
Wall Light: [*Atelier Vime*](https://ateliervime.com/en/editions/applique-medicis-atelier-vime-editions/#1)   
Sofa: [*Pinch*](https://pinchdesign.com/products/upholstery/moreau-sofa)

 

 

 



  [ ![](https://media.slman.com/FHPNPcpPnG8YP2XMUijWYzOlKpw=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-18-371rt.jpg?itok=MSJUNvdZ)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

  

 

  [ ![](https://media.slman.com/m8oPGV1cKZY8xNUgVPjqoLwX-rc=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-16-346rt.jpg?itok=-L4M-yHb)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

  

 

 



 

 

 

## The Main Bedroom 

  

 

This was envisioned as a calm, cocooning space for rest and retreat – somewhere serene, grounded and timeless. Bespoke joinery spans one wall, cleverly integrating a concealed vanity unit. The cabinetry was painted in a punchy lime green – a vibrant counterpoint to the otherwise muted palette. Soft, textured curtains frame the tall windows and gently diffuse light throughout the day. A layered gauze ceiling light mirrors the drapery’s softness and the original timber floors were left exposed, grounding the space with their natural patina.

An upholstered headboard and layers of linen bedding set the tone for quiet luxury. The bed was dressed with tactile accents – a wool throw, fringed cushions and handwoven rugs – to bring material interest to the neutral base. In the corner, a vintage sheepskin armchair acts as a comfortable reading spot.

A large-scale abstract painting above the fireplace – part of the client’s existing collection – brings minimal but deliberate visual focus. Sculptural accessories in plaster, ceramic and dried florals are arranged with restraint, reinforcing the meditative tone. A marble pedestal placed between the windows offers a quiet, elevated moment, topped with a fan-shaped vase that adds height and softness.

Wardrobe Stool: [*George Smith*](https://www.georgesmith.com/product/soho-baby-buttoned-drum/)   
Wardrobe Mirror: [*Fiona McDonald*](https://www.fionamcdonald.com/collection/p/17068)   
Wardrobe Paint: [*Little Greene*](https://www.littlegreene.com/boxington)   
Bed: [*Pinch*](https://pinchdesign.com/products/moreau-bed)   
Pendant Light: [*Pinch*](https://pinchdesign.com/products/lighting/anders-light-medium)

 

 

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/L8UEEfeFrxz4sF2QiUNw7epliwE=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2Fsl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-shot-27-541rt.jpg?itok=2pCCzaeN)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

 

 

## The Main Bathroom 

  

 

While the marble vanity and shower enclosure were already in place, the space felt too clinical – the client described it as ‘a bit too much like a hotel’. The goal was to soften the overall feel and introduce warmth, texture, and personality, turning it into a more grounded, liveable room.

We retained the existing marble – both for sustainability and because its strong veining offered a dramatic base to work from. The original timber floorboards were kept exposed to balance the marble’s coolness with natural warmth. Lighting was layered to provide flexibility – a soft linen flush-mount on the ceiling combined with sculptural plaster wall lights at the vanity give the client the ability to control mood and brightness. Relaxed Roman blinds in a soft natural linen frame the windows, filtering the light gently throughout the day. Soft towel textures and a minimal palette of accessories keep the space feeling clean yet inviting.

A bamboo shelving unit offers open storage and a touch of casual charm, styled with sculptural ceramics, glassware, and incense to create a sensory, calming atmosphere. Framed artwork and a vintage chair – resprayed in a cheerful green – add some personality and a slightly playful edge. A tall indoor plant adds height and life, breaking up the clean lines and bringing movement into the room.

Side Chair: [*Etsy*](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=6091&awinaffid=69421&platform=dl&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Fuk%2Flisting%2F1278365179%2Fpair-of-carimate-carver-chairs-designed%3Fshow_sold_out_detail%3D1%26ref%3Dnla_listing_details)  
Ceiling Light: [*Nordic Nest*](https://www.nordicnest.com/brands/watt--veke/anna-ceiling-lamp/?variantId=13661-02)   
Paint: [*Farrow &amp; Ball*](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=20199&awinaffid=69421&platform=dl&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.farrow-ball.com%2Fpaint%2Fpointing)   
Bookcase: [*Studio Ham*](https://studioham.co.uk/products/bamboo-etagere)   
Artwork: [*Louisa Loakes*](https://www.louisaloakes.com/)

 

 

 

## The Guest Bedroom 

  

 

This room required minimal intervention – more of a gentle refresh than a full rework. The aim was to create a quiet, comfortable space through a few thoughtful updates that worked with what was already in place. No architectural changes were made – the focus instead was on layering soft textures and tactile materials to elevate the space without overwhelming it.

The existing headboard was reupholstered in a moss-toned Irish wool and the bedside tables were softened with custom linen skirts,. Fresh white bed linen with simple detailing was layered with warm-toned cushions in linen and jute to keep the bed looking inviting but not over-styled.

The client’s ceramic table lamps were updated with new linen shades, adding sculptural shape while softening their overall presence. Styling throughout was restrained to allow the room to remain adaptable and restful – a true guest retreat.

Headboard Fabric: [*Mourne Textiles*](https://mournetextiles.com/products/mourne-mist-f202-25)  
Bedside Tablecloth: [*East Cloth London*](https://eastlondoncloth.co.uk/products/copy-of-hanbury-lute)   
Bedside Lights (similar): [*Penny Morrison*](https://www.pennymorrison.com/products/comporta-blonde-ceramic-lamp-base)   
Paint: [*Farrow &amp; Ball*](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=20199&awinaffid=69421&platform=dl&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.farrow-ball.com%2Fpaint%2Fpointing)

 

 

 

 [ ![](https://media.slman.com/Jo45O7BlybvH8NnynskiUMtxmVs=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsw18.sheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2025%2F06%2F2sl-300625-rachael-gowridge-home-tour-guest-bathroom-landscape.jpg?itok=p3QwSGfN)

 

 ](https://www.rachaelgowdridge.com/) 

 

 

 

 

 

## Guest Bathroom 

  

 

This space was all about creating warmth and softness around a striking existing feature – the extraordinary marble bathtub, which was already in place when we took the project on.

To balance its sculptural presence and soften the formality, we introduced a series of textural and tonal features, such as the deep shag pile rug and a sheepskin-upholstered lounge chair. We used natural elements, namely greenery and planting, to bring life and gentle movement into the space. A rustic milking stool serves as a perch for bath essentials, while tonal artwork above adds visual rhythm without dominating. Soft frilled wall sconces and a wavy rattan pendant add both charm and flattering light, and a rush-wrapped shelving unit provides tactile storage. Altogether, these additions transformed the bathroom from something stark or overly “precious” into a more welcoming space to truly dwell in, not just pass through.

Artwork: [*Artists And Objects*](https://artistsandobjects.com/product/pedra-art-wall-hanging/)   
Side Chair: [*&amp;Tradition*](https://www.andtradition.com/products/little-petra-vb1?variant=4)  
Milking Stool: [*Pamono*](https://www.pamono.co.uk/primitive-wooden-stool-1950s-1/?v_source=visiicplrec)   
Wall Light Shades: [*Alice Palmer*](https://www.alicepalmer.co/collections/candle-clips/products/6-white-scallop-scrunchie)   
Pendant Light: [*Matilda Goad*](https://matildagoad.com/collections/lighting/products/rattan-wave-pendant-shade)

 

 

 

 

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

 

DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at <info@slman.com>.