West London House Company transformed a once run-down, dark one-bedroom flat in London into a light and highly functional home. The project focused on improving space, flow, and natural light, creating a far more practical and comfortable layout. A mixture of porcelain tiles has been used throughout the property, bringing cohesion, durability, and a refined finish to the interiors.
Can you tell us about the project, including any background or history, and what the brief from the client was trying to achieve?
The property was initially a very run-down, dark one-bedroom, one-bathroom flat. The aim was to completely transform it into a light, elegant and highly functional home that made far better use of the available space.
We extended the rear of the property by three metres and completed a side return extension, which allowed us to create a large open-plan kitchen, dining and living area. We also added an en-suite to the master bedroom, giving the flat a much more practical layout and a greater sense of luxury.
What were the key design, technical or logistical challenges you needed to overcome?
One of the biggest challenges was the side return area, where the ceiling dipped and included skylights. Initially, we had planned for the kitchen to sit in this space, but once we began designing it properly, we realised the tall cupboards needed for elements such as the fridge freezer would compromise the natural light.
We therefore decided to move the kitchen onto the opposite wall. However, the main door into the kitchen area was positioned there, which meant we had to move the doorway and slightly adjust the bathroom layout. It allowed the space to work much better and created the perfect area for a dining table beneath the light-filled part of the extension.
What led you to choose Quorn Stone for this project?
We had used Quorn Stone on a previous project alongside another high-end supplier, and we found the Quorn Stone showroom incredibly helpful. Unlike many other suppliers, Quorn Stone displays tiles across larger areas of the showroom, so you can get a real feel for how they will look in a finished space rather than having to rely on a tiny sample.
They also have a beautiful and extensive selection, covering a whole range of looks - from more rustic finishes through to beautiful honed marble. That variety made it much easier to find materials that suited the overall palette of the apartment.
Which products did you consider, and what made the final selection the right fit for the project?
Initially, we considered a number of different natural stone and porcelain options, as we wanted something timeless and elegant but also practical for everyday living.
The final selections worked so well because they helped the whole apartment feel cohesive. The Dijon Rendition® Herringbone Tiles in the courtyard completely transformed that space, while the combination of the Chalfont Antiqued Green and White Chequerboard Tiles and the Luella Blanched White Gloss Metro Tiles in the main bathroom brought real personality and impact. We also chose the Hambleton Ivory because it came in an indoor-outdoor tile, which was key to creating a seamless connection between the kitchen/living space and the courtyard.
What aspects of the finished result are you most proud of?
What began as a dark and tired one-bedroom flat became a bright, elegant and homely apartment that feels much larger and more considered.
I personally love the courtyard off the second bedroom. The Dijon Rendition® Herringbone Tiles completely transformed the space and made it feel like the perfect place to have your morning coffee and escape from the world.
Based on your experience, what advice would you give to other trade professionals undertaking a similar project?
My key piece of advice would be to make sure the whole home flows and works together, rather than looking at each room in isolation.
I took all my samples to the Quorn Stone showroom - from door knobs and kitchen cupboards to curtain fabric, bath panel samples, paint samples and more - to make sure the palette of the entire apartment worked together. Looking at every detail side by side really helps create a cohesive finished result.
Which room or area had the biggest transformation?
My personal favourite is the main bathroom, where we mixed the Luella Blanched White Gloss Metro Tiles with the Chalfont Antiqued Green and White Chequerboard flooring. I have previously always opted for safer choices, but combining these patterns made a huge impact in a small space and gave the room so much character.
Which design trend are you loving right now?
Marble archways and Crittall-style shower rooms.
Describe the finished project in three words.
Timeless, elegant and elevated.
What made this project particularly interesting or different from others you’ve worked on?
This was the first flat I had worked on, as I had previously only worked on houses. Working on a much smaller scale was very different and, in some ways, more challenging. Every decision had to be carefully considered because the space needed to work incredibly hard while still feeling beautiful and uncluttered.
How did the choice of materials, including tiles, influence the final design outcome?
The materials played a huge role in shaping the final look and feel of the apartment. The tiles in particular helped define each area while still allowing the whole home to feel connected.
The Hambleton Ivory Textured Stone Effect Porcelain Tile and their coordinating pavers created a seamless flow from the kitchen and living space into the courtyard, making the extension feel larger and brighter. In the bathroom and courtyard, the patterned tile choices added interest, texture and personality without taking away from the timeless overall feel.
What were the most important decisions that shaped the final look and feel of the space?
Every decision impacts the final look, so I think it is so important to consider every single detail. However, one of the most important decisions was choosing an indoor-outdoor tile. We added Crittall-style bi-folding doors, so being able to open these and have the same tiles flow through to the outside space really helped create that indoor-outdoor living feel. It made the apartment feel more spacious, more connected and much more usable.
What’s the most important thing homeowners should know before starting a project like this?
Budget is key - always add at least 20% more than you think you will need. Lead times are also incredibly important, as they can hugely impact your decisions and the overall programme. Planning ahead and making material choices early can make the whole process much smoother.
