Interior Designer John Bassam has it exactly right. Located in London's vibrant community of Clapton, his design studio-cum-hire space is undeniably on trend without trying too hard. While the aesthetic is open plan and industrial in a nod to it's past as one of London's only few remaining tram depots, the white walls and strong natural light are softened beautifully by the natural stone flooring and muted greens- resulting in a comforting and homely feel.
John clearly shares a similar opinion to me where it comes to reaping the benefits of filling a space with botanical beauty. Plants are not only good for the mind, they're good for the body too. The majority of the plants within the studio space are suspended from the old Victorian stable beams, creating a dramatic visual hanging garden when contrasting with the blank canvas of the high ceilings and white walls.
The furniture and accessories are cleverly planned and contemporary, with a contrast between antique and retro inspired pieces, and modern, metallic accent pieces. Everything about this aesthetic makes me feel peaceful. The references to the natural world, the feeling of space and the clever use of texture in a space that could otherwise feel impersonal and cold.
With more and more of us looking to alter our spaces to accommodate a more social and open way of life, this is a space that really sums up contemporary city living for me.