The Coastal Pensieve

Nestled along the British seaside, a blue facade whispers tales of the past amongst the harsh winds buffeting against its original bay windows. In the wake of recent renovations, most of the home's historical charm has become a distant memory, replaced by contemporary elegance. A couple, collectors of modern art and contemporary furniture, enlisted Atelier Akuko to infuse warmth and personality into the 3-bedroom Victorian abode. The result is a fleeting yet suitable refuge for this young family seeking respite from the bustling capital.


Functionality reigns supreme in every room, carefully crafted to simplify daily life while evoking a sense of frivolity and wonder. Floral patterns dance across rugs and curtains, paying homage to the house’s Victorian heritage, while striped motifs nod to the nearby seaside. A palette of pale blue, terracotta red, and garden green sets the stage for a symphony of textures and materials—chrome, lacquer, marble, and velvet blending seamlessly amidst bespoke furniture with anthropomorphic allure. Playzones for the little one integrate seamlessly, testifying to the harmony between function and aesthetics in this ephemeral sanctuary where memories are made and dreams take flight.

Brighton contemporary living room with blue accents and bespoke furniture

The living room, the most elegant space in the house, exudes quirky sophistication. Anchored by an ornamental embroidered floral rug in shades of green and blue, it sets the stage for our colour story. Designed for intimate conversation or leisurely reading, the area features a curved sofa balanced by two sets of sculptural post-modern chairs.

In the center, a round coffee table crafted from a vintage terrazzo tabletop atop three mirrored spherical legs juxtaposes the warmth of the stone with the coolness of the mirror.

A figurative floating fireplace mantlepiece beneath a black and white photograph by Malick Sidibéf forms a compelling dual focal point.

Atelier Akuko creates expressive interior design in Brighton featuring a sculptural mantlepiece.

Positioned on either side of the fireplace, two black lacquered storage units, both with thick cylindrical legs but each displaying a unique silhouettes further enhance the room's sense of balance, while maintaining an air of mischievous eccentricity.

Dining chairs with playful sculptural backrest in Brighton dining room interior design by Atelier Akuko.

Just off the living room, the dining area infuses its own magic into the unfolding tale. Grounded by a substantial brutalist travertine table crowned with a lightweight glass top, it invites gatherings and shared moments.

Brutalist travertine table, sculptural chairs, and oversized wallpaper in Brighton dining room by interior design studio Atelier Akuko

Against the backdrop, two oversized art pieces coalesce into a sprawling mural, their soft green and blue strokes whispering tales of mythical creatures and forgotten legends.

These hues, mirrored in the bespoke dining chairs custom designed by Atelier Akuko for this room, infuse the space with a sense of expressionism. Crafted from reimagined 90s conference chairs, these seats boast artistically carved backrests, playing with contrasts of rounded and angular edges, as well as clever use of negative space.

Miniature wardrobe and colorful gallery wall in Brighton nursery interior design by Atelier Akuko.

Inspired by the boundless energy of the spirited toddler, the goal was to infuse the nursery room with a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, patterns, and shapes, all while respecting the transient nature of the family's stay.

To foster a sense of independence and belonging, we strategically positioned both furniture and art at the eye level of the toddler, creating an environment tailored to their exploration and discovery.

Furniture was upholstered with playful geometric fabrics.

Brighton Nursery Interior Design by Atelier Akuko features colourful geometric patterns.

 Prioritizing safety, we designed a custom radiator cover to conceal plugs, ensuring a hazard-free environment

The walls became a canvas for meaningful art, featuring, amongst other pieces, framed tea towels by Nigerian-British artist Yinka Ilori.

Custom Striped Upholstery For Brighton Patio By Interior Design Studio Atelier Akuko

Venturing beyond the kitchen, the outdoor patio emerges. Drawing inspiration from an existing palm tree, this narrow, L-shaped space is an ode to British seaside charm fused with aspirations of Mediterranean vibrancy.

A modular rattan sofa, reupholstered with bespoke striped fabric, and a custom pavé-style coffee table crafted from repurposed marble samples evoke the essence of the Mediterranean. Weather-proofed art pieces affirm the notion that when it comes to styling, outdoor areas deserve the same treatment as indoor rooms.

Whimsical Brighton Patio by Interior Design Studio Atelier Akuko Combines Victorian and Mediterranean Design Influences

ACabana-esque bar station clad in embroidered floral fabric anchors the space in its Victorian heritage.

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