Tynemouth Road | A Calm Family Space with Soul

When this family first brought Carole in, the two front rooms had just been knocked through. The extra openness created potential, but the result felt visually jarring and unresolved. In a north-facing Victorian terrace, the front room was naturally dark and cool, and once the walls came down, the differing heights of the original alcove units became more obvious. Both sets needed to stay, so the challenge was to make the space feel calmer, more cohesive and far better suited to everyday family life.

The design was shaped around a busy family of four, including a neurodivergent son whose needs had to be carefully considered. The aim was not only to create a room that looked beautiful, but one that supported real life: reading, music, entertaining, working from home, family dinners and quieter moments of retreat. Inspired by the family’s connection to King Edward’s Bay, the palette draws on coastal colour and softness to bring a greater sense of peace into the home. Simple panelling was designed to work with the original Victorian features while disguising the uneven alcove heights, helping the room feel more settled and visually connected.

Layered lighting, marble hearths with brass surrounds, statement chandeliers, art and mirrors all helped lift the eye, warm the darker corners and celebrate the character of the house. Clear zoning gave the dining room a stronger structure, balancing family meals, music and entertaining, while thoughtful storage and decluttering support made the space easier to live in day to day. Special attention was given to creating calmer routines and a sense of ownership for the family’s son, including storage for treasured belongings that supports independence and reduces visual overwhelm. The result is a home that feels more welcoming, more resolved and more supportive of the people living in it. As Jake later said, “This room has literally changed our lives.”