The Buoyant Refuge
On the outskirts of London, a 3-bedroom house became a refuge for a Syrian family rebuilding their lives. Working pro bono with a local community organisation, Atelier Akuko transformed donated furnishings and a dated shell into a cohesive interior design that feels both nurturing and uplifting.
With only fragments of the family’s story to guide us, we curated colour palettes and layered textures to turn mismatched pieces into a harmonious home. Inspired by the property’s arched doorway, we echoed its form across rooms — from custom headboards to murals and mirrors — creating flow, unity, and moments of playful surprise.
This project is proof that thoughtful design doesn’t depend on endless budgets or perfect starting points. With creativity, storytelling, and bold vision, any house — no matter how limited the resources — can be transformed into a meaningful home. Looking to bring that same sense of cohesion and soul to your own space? → Discover Rebel Room(s)
In the family living room design, a hand-painted mural by Adriana Jaros takes centre stage, infusing the space with colour and energy. Reminiscent of her work featured in Elle Decoration’s Covent Garden penthouse, the mural anchors the room and creates an artful focal point that transforms the everyday into something uplifting.
With no traditional hallway to work with, Atelier Akuko positioned a high-backed sofa to create the illusion of a welcoming entryway — a clever interior design trick that defines the threshold while adding comfort and style.
Every artwork, generously donated by Desenio, was handpicked by Atelier Akuko to complement the interiors. Selected for their colour and spirit, the prints reinforce the light-hearted mood of this family home design — adding both warmth and cohesion to the rooms.
The kitchen design underwent a striking transformation. Once weighed down by brown veneer cabinets, antiquated brass handles, glass-front doors, yellow floor tiles, and grout-stained backsplash, it embodied a dated interior crying out for revival.
The kitchen now shines with sage green cabinets, updated brass handles, and a charcoal-painted tile floor — a budget-friendly makeover proving how much impact can be achieved with nothing more than paint and perseverance.
The kitchen’s standout feature is a bold Ottoline De Vries wallpaper, revealed inside cabinets once hidden behind dated glass doors — a small detail that transforms storage into a striking design statement.
In the main bedroom design, texture takes center stage. A glossy arched headboard contrasts with matte walls, while a versatile marble table doubles as both a bedside surface and a compact desk — balancing elegance with everyday function.
A strategically placed mirror enhances the bedroom design by amplifying natural light and reflecting views, creating the illusion of a larger, brighter space.
Donated furniture was elevated through bold wall murals, where clever use of paint transformed simple pieces into part of a cohesive, character-rich interior design.
With space limited to a single bed, we transformed it into a versatile daybed with a custom arched backrest. Smart storage on castors doubles as a bedside table, while a strategically placed mirror enhances light and amplifies the sense of space.
With creativity, colour, and compassion, a dated shell and donated furnishings became a joyful family refuge. Proof that soulful design can thrive no matter the budget. → Want the same sense of cohesion and story in your own home? Step into Rebel Room(s).
Whether you’ve got Pinterest boards for days or no clue where to start, I design residential and commercial interiors that work hard, feel amazing, and surprise you with those magical “how-did-I-live-without-this?” details.
Book a free, no-strings discovery call, and we’ll explore your vision — and see if we’re a great fit.
You’ll leave with fresh ideas and clarity, whether we end up working together or not.
Time to talk transformation?
Service Packages
Rebel Room(s)
Your bespoke residential interior design service.
Rebel Room(s) Lux
Your bespoke residential interior design, procurement and project management service.
Rebel Rooms Commercial
My bespoke commercial interior design service for independent retail spaces, boutique hospitality experiences and creative workplaces.
Featured Projects
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The Buoyant Refuge
A joyful redesign of a London 3-bedroom home for a refugee family — bold colour, murals, and clever design tricks.
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The Marvelous Oddyssey
A Manchester teen bedroom design with playful storytelling layered with smart storage to support growing independence.
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The Expressionist Capsule
A London new build apartment interior for a professional couple — balancing small-space functionality with bold, creative styling.
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The Coastal Pensieve
A Brighton Victorian family home reimagined — blending seaside heritage with contemporary design and family-friendly function.
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AKUKO Studio
A London office interior design turned creative workspace that sparks collaboration and imagination.
