Discover how an ingenious interior design vision gave a long-unused former gentleman's club new life.

Sean Cochrane transformed a declining Victorian villa into a luxurious family home
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When award-winning interior designer Sean Cochrane was commissioned to transform an impressive – yet somewhat in decline – early Victorian-era villa, he was initially overwhelmed. It was certainly a tall order to convert the historic structure into a modern home, all while preserving its authenticity. So, to ensure the South London abode remained true to its origins, Sean kept the building’s age in mind during the renovations – he even brought in a specialist who hand-tinted all the bricks so that they matched the stock bricks that were originally used.

See more: Modern luxe meets retro glamour in this New York apartment

The impressive space was formerly a gentlemen’s club and had been left unused for three years before developer Shandon Property brought Cochrane Design on board to recreate it as a grand residence. Due to its coveted location near Clapham Common, the property was considered quite a catch – and even more so after its revamp. The home has since been sold to a family with a penchant for entertaining friends and spending quality time with their children.

The One bath from West One Bathrooms is kitted out with traditional Mackintosh fittings from Lefroy Brooks, which were inspired by 30s designs.
The One bath from West One Bathrooms is kitted out with traditional Mackintosh fittings from Lefroy Brooks, which were inspired by 30s designs.
A sprawling patio with manicured gardens to the rear is perfect for entertaining.
A sprawling patio with manicured gardens to the rear is perfect for entertaining.
The project was a veritable playground in the eyes of an interior designer, presenting plenty of opportunity for creativity and drama.
The project was a veritable playground in the eyes of an interior designer, presenting plenty of opportunity for creativity and drama.
A large panel of bespoke antiqued glass by Cochrane Design adds glamour to the dining room, which opens into the living area.
A large panel of bespoke antiqued glass by Cochrane Design adds glamour to the dining room, which opens into the living area.
Seating is grouped around a statement fixture – the fireplace.
Seating is grouped around a statement fixture – the fireplace.
The expansive kitchen features a 10-metre-long island topped with Carrara marble and vintage industrial pendant lights from the 1950s.
The expansive kitchen features a 10-metre-long island topped with Carrara marble and vintage industrial pendant lights from the 1950s.

Photography: Paul Craig

Tags: InTheMagazineLondon
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