Holiday Home in Devon, UK is a project designed by O&A London. “Armed with a real estate brochure a young couple popped into the O&A London office on the day after their wedding. The brochure featured a modern detached property in Devon, where the newlyweds planned to enjoy idyllic summer holidays and short breaks. Ultimately, the house was to become the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life for the busy professionals; a place where they could truly relax and recharge their batteries and also a place to share with family and friends. Photography by Simon Upton.
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Brief
The brief was to develop a design concept for the three-storey contemporary building highlighting the living room and dining area in particular. The clients were looking for a minimalist approach to the overall project and asked the creative team to come up with a calming, tranquil and airy design.
The O&A London team, led by Anna Agapova and Oleg Klodt, made it their mission to create a ‘tranquil sanctum’ for the young family. During the initial conversations the idea emerged of an interior reflecting the abundant natural beauty of the local area inside their home, hence the dreamy pastels of the nearby sandy beaches and the soft greens of the Devon cliffs and hill tops were to feature prominently in the design.
Interior
One of the most stunning features of the property are the fabulous and far-reaching views across the Jurassic Coast. The main goal was to open up the house to the outdoors and to let the living space become part of the spectacular landscape.
“I know it’s a cliché, but this project was literally created from the inside out. In addition to the panoramic windows, there is also a spacious terrace. If you want to enjoy fabulous, far-reaching views you simply can’t imagine a better or a more inviting place.” commented Oleg Klodt.
The building’s modern exterior and the calming view from the panoramic windows inspired Anna Agapova and Oleg Klodt to keep the overall interior style very neutral and to accentuate using pieces of contemporary art.
In terms of colour palette, the designers opted for a range of soft greys and blushed pinks in order to amplify the soothing atmosphere of the home. In the living room a wallpaper by American brand Calico was chosen as a complementary backdrop. “The first time I walked into the house I was totally captivated watching the sun set on the horizon. At that moment I knew that vibrant shades of pink would play a dominant part in the living room – just like the first violin in a symphony orchestra”, said Anna Agapova.”