The Express–ionist Capsule

The Urban Expressionist Capsule is a timeless fusion of functionality and vibrant imagination. Designed for a dynamic young couple navigating London's creative currents, this compact 67-sqm abode is more than just a living space—it's a launchpad for their dreams.

With no architectural features to lean on, the focus shifts to styling and decoration. From the soft off-white walls against the glossy black furniture to the pops of red and Yves Klein blue, every detail tells a story, every piece of furniture a chapter in the couple's journey.

But it's not just about aesthetics—functionality reigns supreme. With clever storage solutions and distinct zones for different daily needs, every inch of the apartment is optimized for efficiency. This is a space where creativity knows no bounds—a true expression of the couple's aspirations and passions and a springboard for their imagination.

Playful and contemporary kitchen in London new build by Atelier Akuko, featuring cabinetry with oversized door handles for a characterful interior design.

In the open-plan living room, the kitchen unit stands as a playfully rebellious centerpiece, its glossy doors replaced with matt offwhite finishes, adorned with oversized wooden door handles.

Zellige tiles add a textural touch, while custom-designed open shelves highlight the couple's crockery collection, the black lacquer making sure it ties in in seamlessly with the rest of the open living space.

Vintage post-modern pieces mingle seamlessly with contemporary designer furniture, each adding its own unique flavor to the space.

Characterful bespoke cabinet with wiggly door in London new build interior design.
London dining area by interior design studio Atelier Akuko, featuring a post-modern chairs and colourful art.

A DeSede 2011 sofa takes center stage coupled with a set of asymmetrical 1980s chairs by Castelijn used as dining chairs around a Brutalist travertine table.

London new build interior design with characterful contemporary furniture, geometric rug, and quirky custom light fixture.

 Meanwhile, custom-designed unique pieces and creative hacks breathe new life into the couple’s Ikea furniture, infusing the space with sculptural charm.

To add character to a London new build, interior design studio Atelier Akuko crafts a layered bedroom aesthetic with patterns and a hand painted mural.

In the bedroom, a custom mural adorns the headboard wall, each hand-painted brushstroke adding an organic depth to the geometric motifs.

Bespoke burlwood bedroom storage bench in London new build interior design by Atelier Akuko.

The emphasis on organic patterns extends throughout the room, exemplified by the pattern of a burlwood-veneered sideboard, which has been repurposed as a bench. Similarly, its upholstery in Kelly Wearstler's fabric Grafitto offers an alternative take on contrasting, organic patterns.

Interior design studio Atelier Akuko uses storytelling to create characterful textures for storage in a London new build office.

Diverging from the bold patterns of the bedroom, the office embraces a more restrained, tranquil ambiance, focusing on texture and cohesion. Walls and furniture share the same hue, albeit in varying sheens, creating a harmonious backdrop for productivity. Behind the desks, a thick, textured velvet curtain serves as both a visual divider and a sound buffer, enhancing the workspace's functionality.

Repurposed furniture receives a bas-relief finish, adding a multi-dimensional element.

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