Nature meets mid-century chic at this serene West London home.

When a British couple with two adult sons decided to transform their Chiswick home, they turned to Yoko Kloeden Design to craft a calming, plant-filled retreat. The result is a ground-floor renovation that feels like a harmonious extension of the lush garden outside.  

A combination of lockdown living and a love for greenery inspired the family to rethink their home. They wanted a more functional, light-filled space that blurred the lines between indoors and outdoors. The garden, with its abundant greenery, became the main muse for the design.  

The project's starting point was an outdated 20-year-old extension—a poorly insulated glass box that was unbearably hot in summer and freezing in winter. A leaky roof, malfunctioning underfloor heating, and a clunky layout meant it was time for a fresh start.  

Yoko Kloeden and her team demolished the problematic extension, leaving only two side walls intact. They replaced it with a sleek, insulated structure featuring skylights, sliding glass doors, and a picture window that perfectly frames the garden. The once-intrusive structural pillar was swapped for a steel beam, allowing for better flow.  

The revamped floor plan centres on a gallery-style kitchen with a custom island. Gone is the U-shaped kitchen that blocked garden views—now, the family can cook with a stunning backdrop of greenery. Natural textures dominate here, from vintage oak parquet flooring to fluted oak cladding, creating a layered, warm atmosphere.  

The dining space, designed for hosting, includes a corner bench that seats up to nine. Custom-built by Yoko Kloeden Design, the bench pairs beautifully with a wide table from Konk Furniture. Above, a minimalist HAY pendant light adds a modern touch.  

A key design feature is the connection to the garden. Sliding doors open up the space, while a plant-hanging shelf—suspended from the 3-metre-high ceiling—brings greenery indoors. It’s a subtle nod to the family’s love for nature and a clever way to integrate the outdoors into everyday life.  

The living area is a tale of two tones: light and airy at the front, dark and cosy in the middle. A yellow sofa anchors the darker space, where a striking blue zellige-tiled fireplace steals the show. The fireplace, a bespoke addition, replaced a dated chrome surround and adds texture and warmth to the room.  

The homeowners’ love for mid-century and vintage pieces shines throughout. From reupholstered furniture to vintage kitchen stools and rugs, these cherished finds were seamlessly woven into the design.