We started by selecting the oversized
kasbah chandeliers to make an amazing
centrepiece. The pendants were chosen
in various sizes and hung at different
heights to create a strong, sculptural
effect that becomes even more special
in the evening as the lights sparkle
and reflect off the polished surface
of the dining table.
The dark blue wall adds drama and a
sense of intimacy in the evening. On the
other walls, we chose to boost the light
during the day with a pale shade of grey.
The dark blue also sets off the walnut
cocktail bar on one side of the fireplace
and dresser on the other. The bar
includes a silver travertine counter for
mixing cocktails and a bronze smoked
mirror back for a touch of glamour.
THIS SPACE is on the ground floor of a three-
storey Victorian house in north London that was
completely refurbished. Previously dark and gloomy, the
dining room is now filled with natural light thanks to
new sliding glazed doors into the family room on the left
and to the sitting room on the right. When the doors are
open, light flows through and, when closed, the room
instantly becomes more intimate for evening dining.
AS MY CLIENTS WANTED a formal dining
area, we chose classic, elegant furniture. The large
dining table is surrounded by comfortable chairs,
upholstered in blue herringbone linen with a mustard-
gold accent to inject some vibrant character.
WE FINISHED OFF with a traditional rug that
has accents of blue, echoing the colour of the dining
chairs, and a painting chosen from my clients’ art
collection. The overall light and dark contrast works
well both by daylight and candlelight and enhances
the classic elegance of the scheme.
QShalini Misra, 020 7604 2340, shalinimisra.com
FEATURE
AMELIA THORPE
PHOTOGRAPH
MEL YATES
Walls painted in Squid Ink and
Steel III pure flat emulsion, £48.50
for 2.5L, Paint & Paper Library.
Kasbah chandeliers, from £405
each, Eichholtz. Bespoke dining
table; bespoke Trouville U dining
chairs, all Mis en Demeure. Upholstered
in Vasco herringbone in Ming, linen,
£115.20m, Pierre Frey. Similar accent
fabric, Tsar 72, £95.40m, Élitis. Vintage
rug, The Rug Company. Bespoke
joinery, Louis Baker Construct.
DESIGN