Innova by Inspired Homes - Show Home Room by Room
The interior designer for the show apartment was interior stylist and blogger Sarah Akwisombe. Sarah’s brief was to design a space that was bright, eclectic and edgy as well as functional, maximising the space in the 30 m sq micro apartment at Inspired Homes’ flagship Innova development in Croydon.
Hailing from Croydon herself, Sarah aimed to target late millennials buyers (25 – 35 years), tapping into the ‘Croydon cool’ vibe by creating a young, fresh space that turned the concept of a traditional developer show flat scheme on its head. The pieces she chose are accessible and affordable, with about 90% hailing from high street shops, alongside one or two pricier pieces.
Where possible Sarah has chosen multi-functional furniture, bearing in mind the smaller space, including a Duffy London coffee table that extends into a six-person dining table, and pieces with a small footprint such as the West Elm floor lamp in the living room which is just 15cm in diameter.
Sarah says: “I think I’ve proven that small spaces can be packed with personality. By thinking about the potential usage every item of furniture , as well as maximising hidden storage opportunities and dead space above our heads, a micro-apartment can feel relaxed, ordered and spacious. I didn’t want it create a typical show flat, but instead I wanted it to feel like I’ve popped over to a mate’s cool apartment.”
Kitchen: With the gloss white kitchen and black granite worktops already chosen, Sarah deliberately picked kitchen accessories that felt unusual and interesting. Cutlery and utensils are gold, mugs are splattered with a black paint design, the Morphy Richards kettle and toaster are black with an engraved geometric pattern. The intention was to make a plain space feel young and hip, with everyday items designed to make people look twice.
Living space: The Duffy London coffee table extends into a good-sized dining table, seating six, ideal for entertaining. Pols Potten stools are dotted around the flat, doubling up as side tables, bedside tables and extra seats at the dining table when needed. The jade green velvet sofa brings a feeling of opulence and open shelves high on the wall behind offer extra storage. Full length grey drapes add cosiness and bring a contemporary feel to the space.
Bedroom: A bespoke neon light made by Bag and Bone forms the focal point of the bedroom scheme. Neon lights are becoming popular as an alternative to wall art, bringing a more youthful, edgier feel. It’s kitch, but done in a cool way. The terrazzo patterned cushions convey an arty vibe, which is continued throughout the flat with terrazzo patterned coasters, plant pots and sofa cushions. A hanging rail feels less imposing than a wardrobe, allowing the light to flow around the room. Clothes hanging on a rail are also a nod to the fashion industry and help create the perfect Instagram-worthy bedroom shot.
Bathroom: The bathroom feels pared back but premium, with an urban edge thanks to the slim line square sink and a floating toilet which contributes to a feeling of space. The dark grey tiles are a good example of how darker colours can add depth without making the space feel smaller. Instead it feels a room designed for relaxation.
Find out more about Innova by Inspired Homes