5 London Homes That Score Major Design Points

Contemporary Bath in West London

This luxury bathroom is located at the top of a four-story home. Its most striking feature is a wood-trimmed curved wall. The partition splits the space in two; on one side is the sink and vanity, along with a full-height shower unit and steam room (left curved wall).

On the other side of the wall is a soaking tub that's used by the woman of the house.

A wider perspective of the bathroom from the other side of the curved wall reveals a heated towel rack, ample bench space and, in the background, part of the glass unit that contains the full-height shower unit.

Tip: When it comes to making a statement, think outside the box. Here, the partition is both a partial wall and a sculptural statement piece.

Shed/Office in East London

This 150-square-foot home office belongs to freelancers who wanted to feel a strong connection to their garden space and the outdoors from inside the office.

The architect used simple and durable materials sourced from local and sustainable companies. He also made sure that the materials maximized insulation levels within the shed to keep energy costs as low as possible.

Tip: Consider fully retractable doors for outdoor sheds and home offices that are separate from the main house. These doors allow the homeowners to fully appreciate their garden from within the shed and also enable them to entertain from the shed during the warmer months.

Loft Bedroom in Southwest London

This boy's room is one of two rooms that used to be a top-floor loft in this terrace home. The mom had the clever idea of splitting the loft into two separate bedrooms so that each of her childrend could have his own space in which to play and sleep.

Tip: The homeowners maximized the light coming in from the bedside window by keeping the room's furnishings and walls in a crisp white with birch accents, creating a bright, light-filled interior.

Tip: Take risks in your bathroom furnishings. Don't be afraid to place in your master bathroom a modern light pendant usually found above kitchen islands or a hide slipper chair from an entryway.

Contemporary Riverside Kitchen in the Docklands

Instead of feeling burdened by the massive pillar in this contemporary home, the designer simply worked around it. He took attention away from the visual interruption by creating a striking blue backsplash that immediately draws the eye and gives the neutral room a welcome punch of color.

Tip: Personalizing your home can go beyond family photos on the wall and monogrammed pillowcases. This homeowner asked the designer to match the hue of the backsplash to her son's eye color — now that's personal.