Stepping into Nick Troedson’s Happy Valley pad is like venturing into a dramatic sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Large windows from all sides allow ample light to flood the space, in turn adding depth and richness to the walls that Nick chose to paint an intense black. This is also testament to his courage and commitment to creating an impactful interior that is definitely not for the risk-averse.
Knowing Nick’s background – currently the public relations director of Mr Porter in the Asia-Pacific region, and an all-round fashion and style expert who previously held roles at luxury brands such as Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi – his confidence in style does not come as a surprise.
Having lived and worked in Hong Kong for more than 15 years, Nick knew it was time to buy a home, but he confesses that it took him a long time to find the perfect space. "As soon as I stepped in here, I knew this was it," he recalls. "I liked the layout and the size, and how it’s a tranquil space slightly hidden from the central activity of Happy Valley."
Of his unique decision to paint the majority of his walls black, Nick says, "It was all about the juxtaposition of the black and white and the woods, and finding the right balance." This monochromatic palette has been jazzed up with hues of bronze and gold panelling throughout the space to add a touch of glamour. Furniture-wise, Nick had his heart set on a black leather Carl Hansen sofa. Together with a chair that was gifted by a friend, these pieces set the scene for everything else to come together.
In Nick’s abode, more is more – and this is employed to stunning effect, whether it’s in the homeowner’s artfully curated bookshelf, the overflowing lush greenery that purposefully floods the patio, or the handsome leather sofas uplifted with plush velvet cushions and black and white artwork.
The home reveals a life well lived. "I travel so much and I’m known for always going over my luggage limit," says Nick. "I love bringing back books when I’m in the UK. And when I see something I love, I buy it."
There are frequent parallels drawn between fashion design and interior design. If you’ve got a discerning eye for fashion, you should be able to apply it to your interiors, too, and Nick’s home is testament to that. When asked who he counts among his style inspirations, he’s quick to credit his grandparents. "I honestly believe that in my family, my taste came from my grandfather – he was always my idol and in the fashion industry himself. He has been a great influence on me my entire life, and whenever I saw him, he was well dressed in a suit and tie, no matter the occasion. And my grandmother – she’s the chicest woman I know."
The living room is an airy, open-plan space, which seamlessly connects to the kitchen and dining area on one end and the extended patio on the other, making for the perfect entertaining venue.
The professional kitchen, fitted in masculine wood and with modern appliances, looks like a chef’s dream – but Nick admits he can’t cook to save his life. "My friends enjoy hanging out here until late in the evening – it’s a great place to be."
So what’s his favourite space at home? "Definitely the bedroom. It’s so serene and private, and I love looking out to the green. It’s truly my own sanctuary."
Photography by Edgar Tapan
A version of this article originally appeared in our August 2016 issue.
