An Art Deco apartment in Hampstead is remodelled to create an elegant city bolthole distinguished by the use of rich colour and distinctive natural materials.

The owner, who splits his time between London and Mumbai, wanted to reclaim the property after it had spent decades on the rental market. The layout has been entirely rearranged, with internal walls and a corridor removed to create an open living, kitchen and dining area which runs the depth of the building. A full height wall of Koto veneer cabinetry with Verde India marble unites the space.

The building’s Art Deco architecture is referenced throughout – from the vivid silver and black marbles used in the bathroom, to the use of rich hardwood veneers for the joinery and herringbone patterned oak flooring.

The design solves the previously disjointed layout of the L shaped apartment, placing a cosy bedroom near the entrance and giving the main area over to the generous living, kitchen and dining space which makes the most of natural light coming in through the new double-glazed steel-framed windows.

The kitchen features a deep green marble worktop and backsplash and ample hidden storage. A bespoke island provides extra prep space. The living room is designed as a place to read and relax, its flush fireplace a contemporary take on the traditional English hearth. Built in shelving creates capacity while still feeling uncluttered.

A large bifold door can be used to separate the living and kitchen-dining areas, glazed to let light to pass through. A full length curtain can also be pulled across to cocoon the entire room – extra privacy that allows it to be used as an occasional sleeping space for guests.