Tom Pyne and Lara Goodison started things slowly. When they first came across this historic building in South West London, they got butterflies from its location alone. “It’s situated on the banks of the River Thames, just down the road from the charming village of Barnes,” says Lara. “The view of the water is incredibly peaceful and offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and the building itself has lovely period features.”
As a young couple where they both work as creatives – Tom started the clothing brand Chelsea Peers and Lara co-founded the art company Brush and Bubbles – they rented until the opportunity arose to have an apartment in the same building. By then, of course, they were so in love with the stage that they all decided to go. But it must be said: they knew that decision meant accepting all the flaws of their new home.
“When we bought the property, the kitchen had insufficient natural light and all the original features had been lost over the years,” says Tom. “Our house often serves as a hub for late-night brainstorming sessions and also as a backdrop for impromptu fashion shoots and as an art studio. Lots of random things often happen!”
Tom and Lara began a full renovation of their home last March, which was completed earlier this year, and hired Devol to renovate the kitchen and dining room in a style that would blend the past with the present. “We wanted to create a quiet, moody space,” says Tom.
Location: Barnes, London. “Barnes is a hidden gem within the city, offering a unique blend of urban vibrancy and village tranquility,” says Tom. “There are independent boutiques, a classic cinema and lush parks.”
