SOUTHWOLD VILLA

A Grand Georgian Villa Restoring Elegance with Modern Practicality

When my client entrusted me with the task of redesigning their Grand Georgian villa, it was a shell of its former self, stripped of its original character. They desired a design that would pay homage to Georgian architecture while incorporating modern practicality. This villa, intended as a holiday home, needed to look grand and impressive despite a smaller budget compared to their London property.

Elegant living room with beige paneled walls, a chandelier, striped curtains on glass doors, and various sofas with patterned pillows, a wooden coffee table, and framed photos on the walls.

Living Areas

In the living areas, I incorporated comfortable and stylish furnishings that reflect the elegance of the Georgian era while providing modern comfort. Neutral tones and luxurious fabrics were chosen to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Modern lighting solutions, fitting of the era yet contemporary, were discreetly installed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Living room with two sofas, a coffee table with books and a vase of flowers, a fireplace with a mirror and decorative vases, framed photos on the wall, and a chalkboard.
A traditional living room with a beige and blue striped sofa adorned with multiple patterned cushions, a floral central cushion, and a matching curtain on the left. The room features a patterned area rug and a wall with six framed black-and-white pictures arranged in two rows, six frames in total. To the right is a white fireplace mantel with a porcelain vase on top.
Decorative throw pillows on a sofa, one pillow with a floral and butterfly pattern and two with a green geometric pattern, dark blue sofa, white paneled wall in the background.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

The kitchen and bathrooms were designed with a modern and practical approach. In the kitchen, contemporary appliances were blended with classic cabinetry and finishes. For the bathrooms, I selected fixtures and fittings that offer modern convenience while maintaining a timeless look, such as freestanding bathtubs and elegant colour tiles.

A bedroom with a white bed, gray pillows, two lamps on side tables, framed pictures on the walls, and a chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
A dining room with a wooden table set with plates, napkins, wine glasses, and a floral centerpiece. The room features dark blue wainscoting, beige walls, and sheer curtains on the windows. There are chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and a kitchen area with red cabinets and a marble countertop at the back.
Elegant living room with beige paneled walls, a chandelier, a mirror above a fireplace, framed photos on the wall, a flat-screen TV, a floral sofa, a striped sofa with pillows, and a coffee table with books and a vase of flowers.
A living room with a navy blue velvet sofa adorned with decorative pillows, a patterned rug, a paneled wall with four framed black-and-white artworks, two wall-mounted lamps, and a radiator on the right.
A vintage-style bedroom with a white bed, beige walls, framed pictures, wooden furniture, and a chandelier.
A dining room with a long wooden table set for a meal, surrounded by six chairs. A chandelier hangs from the ceiling. The room has teal walls with decorative plates and framed pictures, large window with curtains, and a door at the back.

Furnishings and Decor

I sourced furnishings and decor that provided the Georgian aesthetic at a more affordable price point. Antiques were selectively incorporated to add authenticity, while well-crafted reproductions filled out the rest of the space. Decorative elements, such as mirrors, chandeliers, and artwork, were chosen to enhance the grandeur without breaking the bank.

Double vanity bathroom with marble countertop, two oval sinks, two gold faucets, two mirrors, a central soap dispenser, and a wall-mounted light fixture
View of a bedroom with three beds, striped wallpaper, and a chandelier in a house.
A vintage bathroom vanity with two sinks, white marble countertop, and brass faucets. Two mirrors are hung above with brass hanging rods and a decorative small wall hanging in between. The room has beige beadboard walls, a large window with sheer curtains, and a radiator to the right.

Budget-Conscious Choices

Given the smaller budget for this holiday home, I made strategic choices to maximize impact without overspending. Reproductions of Georgian elements were used where originals were not feasible, offering a cost-effective yet authentic look. High-impact areas, such as the Kitchen and main living spaces, received the bulk of the budget to ensure a grand first impression.

Two single beds with ornate wooden headboards in a cozy bedroom, separated by a small wooden bedside table, with blue and white striped wallpaper and yellow bedding.

Chandeliers

Grand chandeliers were chosen to adorn the main living spaces and entrance hall, creating focal points that draw the eye upward and highlight the restored architectural details. These chandeliers combine traditional design elements with modern craftsmanship, ensuring they complement the overall aesthetic while providing efficient lighting.

Modern and Practical Approach

Balancing the grandeur of Georgian design with modern practicality was essential. Each room was carefully planned to ensure functionality without compromising on style. Modern conveniences were seamlessly integrated into the classic design, offering the best of both worlds.

A cozy bedroom with a bed dressed in white and blue linens, decorated with multiple pillows, flanked by nightstands with lamps, a window letting in natural light, framed artwork on the walls, a chandelier, and a patterned chair in the corner.
A narrow staircase with a beige carpet and a brass handrail on the left side, leading up to a small landing decorated with a large, ornate oval mirror on the back wall. The walls are painted a warm terracotta color and are adorned with framed photographs or artwork. An elegant chandelier hangs from the ceiling at the top of the stairs.

Creating an Impressive Holiday Home

Despite budget constraints, the villa now exudes grandeur and sophistication, befitting its Georgian heritage. Each room tells a story of elegance and practicality, offering a retreat that is both visually stunning and comfortably livable. The careful restoration of historical elements, combined with modern conveniences, ensures that the villa is not only a tribute to the past but also a functional and enjoyable space for today.

This project highlights the potential to achieve grandeur and elegance even within budget limitations, proving that thoughtful design and strategic choices can transform any space into an impressive and inviting home.