‘Open-plan was the way to go’
Struggling with a small space, Jude transformed his flat by opening up the kitchen and sitting room
When I first viewed this flat, I saw the potential immediately – even though there was worn beige carpet literally everywhere, including up the walls, in cupboards and on the bathroom floor,’ says Jude Davis.
‘I’d never seen anything like it within my price range so I made an offer straight away. The main problem with the flat was the tiny, enclosed galley kitchen with poor lighting. There was only really enough space for one person to be in there, as a big partition wall separated it from the living area. Since the space was already small, this wall made it feel even smaller, so I knew I had to open it up.
My vision
The plan was for a space incorporating the kitchen, dining room and sitting room. As I didn’t have much space to work with, I had to think carefully about everything I put in the room. Planning the layout was easy, as the focal point was between the lovely sash windows, so I placed the dining table in the middle with the kitchen to the left and sitting area to the right.
I spotted a builder’s van in the driveway, and discovered it belonged to my next-door neighbour. By a stroke of luck, he turned out to be the best builder I could have asked for and did everything, including knocking down the partition wall and installing the kitchen, lighting, sockets and radiators. My dad plastered the walls and I tackled the painting.
As the entire flat was being renovated at the same time, I moved to my brother’s place down the road for six weeks, which meant I could check progress every day.
Clever design
An L-shaped kitchen with white units by Howdens teamed with white laminate worktops gives me ample storage and
the design doesn’t overpower the space. Howdens helped design the layout and advised me on where to hide the washing machine and dishwasher.
As I didn’t want any space wasted, I had to eliminate some items. For instance, I don’t have a TV and I’ve gone for a drop-leaf dining table. The windows and view make this small space seem so much bigger, but it’s the furniture that makes the room. Everything I have bought has been carefully thought out.
Relaxed result
Having studied product design, I love the detail that goes into making products, so that’s why I picked a classic Smeg fridge freezer in a punchy orange colour and vibrant artwork mixed in with midcentury gems from charity shops. Most of the colour comes from pictures, soft furnishings, furniture and appliances.
I’m so pleased with the result, which blends my love of vintage retro with a laid-back Californian vibe. It’s a great place for entertaining and I’ve had lots of positive comments about the transformation on my Instagram page, @474sq. I remember one sunny day, having people round, sitting on my favourite swivel chair and just looking out to the park. Everyone was so relaxed and that’s what I want my home to be like.’
‘don’t Be scared of dark Hues in a small space - they CAN Have an incredibly COCOONING Feel’