Top 5 films to watch this spooky season!

As the trees lose their leaves and a chill fills the air, one holiday comes to mind, Halloween. We all prepare for spooky season in different ways, whether that be the halloween costume to bring the house down or watching as many scary movies as possible to get into the mood.

This article will take you through our top 5 films to watch this spooky season, there’s a mix of classic films forever associated with halloween plus some recent favourites.

1 – The Shining (1980)

The Shining showcases Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance, a writer who descends into madness. This Stephen King classic is masterfully reimagined by director Stanley Kubrick. Get ready for the ultimate spook when Jack Nicholson axes his way through a door and delivers his classic line ‘HERE’S JOHNNY’.

The Shining, 1980 (Film still)

2 – Corpse Bride (2005)

An animated feature film from director Tim Burton. Corpse Bride follows a young woman looking for a groom to marry since being murdered on her wedding night. Our bride meets Victor and that starts a journey full of twists, turns and goosebumps! A classic animated halloween tale, great for the whole family.

Corpse Bride, 2005 (Film still)

3 – Midsommar (2019)

A film by independent entertainment company A24. Midsommar follows Dani and Christian, a young American couple on the ropes, after a family tragedy keeps them together Dani joins Cristian and his friends on a nine-day Midsummer festival at a commune in Sweden. As the trip unfolds the group suffers a terrifying turn of events, no spoilers but a word of caution, don’t go to the loo on sacred cult trees.

Midsommar, 2019 (Film still)

4 – Death Becomes Her (1992)

Death Becomes Her is a comedy over a horror but it is a spooky classic. Frenemies played by Goldie Hawn and prime Meryl Streep discover the secret of eternal youth but this secret comes with some silly kinks. A must watch, perhaps at the end of the spooky season to have a good chuckle.

Death Becomes Her, 1992 (Film still)

5 – It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

It’s impossible not to mention the cutest classic halloween special ever made! Join the classic Peanuts gang for a timeless adventure as Charlie Brown preps for a party, Snoopy sets his sights on the Red Baron, and Linus patiently awaits a pumpkin patch miracle.

It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, 1996 (Apple TV cover)

Did you enjoy our suggestions? Do you have any recommendations that you think should be on the list? Let us know!

Three shoots we’ve loved this year!

This year 1st Option has seen some incredible film and photography shoots. We wanted to throwback to some of our personal favourite shoots of the year!

Bloom and Wild at Otto

Bloom and Wild are the original letterbox flower delivery company, delivering stunning flowers by post and straight to your door. All of their flowers are handpicked and they even put protective covers on larger flowers to ensure they arrive in perfect condition, they are also the UK’s leading online flower delivery app!

Bloom and Wild – tearsheet

Bloom and Wild shot at Otto, A stylish colourful home in North London decorated with a mix of pastels and vibrant colours throughout, the perfect backdrop for their bright peony campaign.

Otto WD17 – 1st Option Locations

Sofology at Crown

Sofology has been supplying exclusive sofas since 1974, their aim is to help everyone feel at home on a sofa they love. They know that a new sofa is a huge investment and will sit at the heart of your home for the next 7 to 10 years and they create designs that people will fall in love with.

Sofology tearsheet – Crown

Sofology shot at Crown, a double fronted elegant Victorian family home in Barnes. The space has been restyled into a beautiful contemporary space whilst obtaining many of its original Victorian features, making it the perfect neutral space for their autumn campaign.

Whistles at Troverta

Whistles is a London-based style destination known for timeless design. Selling simple yet impactful designs underpinned with luxury through precise tailoring, thoughtful detailing and unique print and colour handwriting, designed exclusively in-house.

Whistles Campaign

Whistles  shot at Troverta, a unique architect-designed house in North London. The property is a perfect blend of Edwardian character and contemporary style, perfect for Whistles campaign!

Troverta North London – 1st Option Locations

Today Is Gonna Be The Day That We’re Gonna Show You Some Walls

If you haven’t guessed it, this blog is going to talk about all things Oasis, a brit pop band by brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher. The band shot to popularity in the 90’s with their hit song ‘Wonderwall’ which, fun fact, was actually the first 1990’s tune to hit one billion streams on Spotify. Oasis’ sour split lasted for 14 years but to the amazement of fans, the brothers announced a 2025 reunion tour!

In celebration of their reunion, we want to showcase some of our Wonder-Walls in our fabulous shoot locations.

Birchwood House

Firstly we want to showcase Birchwood House and its non-existent two feature walls in the kitchen. We love this Wonder-Wall and how enclosed in nature it makes us feel, the space is airy, bright and that’s all thanks to the glass walls. 

Modern kitchen with two glass walls and large skylight. Glass walls give view to an outdoor patio and tree.
Shoot Location – Birchwood House (1st Option Locations)

Carousel

A soft tropical modern house with the charm of a French chateau, it was hard to pick just one wall in the magical Carousel but we settled on this pink extravaganza. Brush strokes of vibrant orange, muted pinks, deep reds and blue spread across its entirety. The thought of shooting in front of that masterpiece has Carousel firmly a Wonder-Wall.

Blush pink wall with paint brush strokes over top. Colours are bright orange, muted blue and red. Two chairs and an art deco lamp sit in front.
Shoot Location – Carousel (1st Option Locations)

Friendly Place

God save the Queen! Apologies… wrong band. We cannot get enough of this quirky South London warehouse. This wooden paneled Wonder-Wall is vibrant green with her majesty front and centre. We love the originality behind this wall and how brilliantly it divides up the warehouse space.

London warehouse space with bright green wooden cladded wall divider. Portrait of the queen centred in the middle of the wall next to giant paper star.
Shoot Location – Friendly Place (1st Option Locations)

Lace Apartment North

Can you imagine cooking up a storm in this heavenly retro kitchen? Lace Apartment is a completely unique bohemian studio space, bursting with character. This wall is absolutely plastered in vintage magazine prints and had to make our Wonder-Wall list.

London retro kitchen with black appliances and gas hob. Vintage magazine covers plaster the walls.
Shoot Location – Lace Apartment North (1st Option Locations)

Bobby

Finally we have Bobby, a bar throwing you right back into the 70’s. This space is wallpaper heaven, the boldness of the mustard print paired with the red velvet sofa is iconic. We can definitely see this Wonder-Wall featuring in your next album cover photoshoot to add in some retro charm.

70's bar with red velvet sofa and mustard yellow wallpaper, wallpaper has intense repeated floral pattern.
Shoot Location – Bobby (1st Option Locations)

So, there you have it – five wonderfully unique Wonder-walls! can you think of any more Wonder-Walls around London or with us? Let us know!

Why industrial style will always have a place in interior design

From exposed brick, concrete to steel, industrial style is all about raw elements, inspired by industrial commercial buildings. This trend became popular in the 60s and 70s alongside loft-style living, when it became more difficult to find ‘traditional’ spaces. One of the reasons this trend is here to stay is that it offers a function-over-form approach.

We have some really special industrial spaces here at 1st Option available for your next photoshoot or filming project, here are just a few to feast your eyes on…

Warehouse conversion with high ceilings, beams and an industrial feel, contrasting black and white.
Shoot Location – Metallica (1st Option Locations)

First up let’s look at Metallica, a penthouse apartment in South West London, Built in 1935, this art deco building includes original features such as the vaulted roof, with dual skylight, large crittall windows and concrete flooring. A unique industrial feature is the metal wall partition, an original feature that serves as a divider between the dining space and lounge area. The industrial kitchen is quite a spectacle with stainless steel cabinetry, a sculptural kitchen island, painted white brick and concrete flooring. 

Warehouse conversion with stainless steel kitchen, minimalistic.
Shoot Location – Metallica (1st Option Locations)

Next we’re heading over to East London, to take a look at Steel, located in an old grain warehouse. This mostly open-plan space includes exposed brick interior walls, complimentary wood and concrete textures and original crittall windows that flood the space with natural light. A wooden mid-century style kitchen space compliments the industrial textures, with a large island and granite surfaces.

Exposed brick, crittall windows, concrete floors, stylish curved sofa
Shoot Location – Steel (1st Option Locations)

Whilst on this side of the pond, we have to mention Spratts Factory, another East London delight located in an old dog biscuit factory warehouse. With large crittall arched windows, reclaimed wooden flooring, double height ceilings and a mezzanine space, this location has some similarities to Steel, but has more of a mid-century, rustic feel. We love the wooden beams and reclaimed wood.

Warehouse conversion with beams, mezzanine floor, arched windows and exposed brick.
Shoot Location – Spratts Factory (1st Option Locations)

A unique example of industrial design comes in the form of this converted Gin Distillery in Whitechapel. This space was transformed by the architect design duo Leo Wood and Rupert Scott, Open Practice Architecture. They used materials such as concrete, exposed steel framework, crittall doors and stainless steel. The aim was to create something minimalistic to their taste, whilst also creating a warm and inviting family home, they balanced this with wooden beamed ceilings, mid-century furniture and greenery. A particularly special part of the space is the double height lounge space, with a concrete paneled wall, statement wood burner, crittall windows and the wood paneled ceiling. 

Old gin distillery converted into a home, concrete walls, large crittall windows, statement log burner
Shoot Location – The Distillery (1st Option Locations)

Aside from residential conversions, we also look after some commercial warehouse spaces that are exclusively used as shoot spaces, one of the most popular being Concrete Studio. This industrial space includes polished concrete flooring, double height ceilings, and sections of concrete walls, complemented by the surrounding white walls. The mezzanine level is designed with concrete ceilings and floors, and strip lighting, adding to the aesthetic.

concrete and white warehouse, minimalistic
Shoot Location – Concrete Studio (1st Option Locations)

So there we have it! Industrial style, spaces that are both aesthetically striking and practical. Raw materials such as concrete and steel, coupled with minimalistic elements, offer a timeless appeal. By embracing the beauty of simplicity and utility, industrial design continues to inspire and shape modern interiors.

Design Delights: London’s Most Beautiful Bars

Have you ever stepped into a bar and been blown away by its stunning architecture? We certainly have! We have curated a list of some of our office favourites (in London) that have left us marvelling at their design.

The Booking Office (& Gothic Bar), St Pancras Station

Both bars are nestled within the iconic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, showcasing breathtaking Gothic architecture. Originally the booking office of St Pancras Station, built in 1869, these bars retain many of the station’s original features, including archway windows and wooden beams. Stepping into these bars is like taking a journey back in time, where the historic charm seamlessly blends with modern elegance, creating a truly unique and captivating atmosphere.

Credit: Booking Office/ Michael Sinclair

Oranj, Shoreditch

In stark contrast to the previous listing, Oranj is a trendy bar situated in a converted warehouse near Brick Lane. With its warm orange lighting, white brick walls, and corrugated metal ceiling, the space exudes a spacious, industrial vibe. Despite this, the inviting lighting, numerous candles, and open-plan kitchen create a lively yet cosy ambiance, making Oranj a perfect blend of modern chic and intimate comfort.

Credit: Oranj / TimeOut

Dram, Denmark Street

Located in a three-storey 17th century building on the iconic Denmark Street, Dram’s architecture features modern touches and vibrant accents. Accessible through a whiskey shop, this surprising space is designed to maintain intimacy. The bar has multiple rooms that open based on customer demand. On quieter nights, patrons can enjoy drinks on the covered outdoor terrace and patio. On busier evenings, an additional bar and a private pool table room are available. The space boasts bold colours, with the garden featuring mustard tabletops and sofas, all contributing to a minimalist yet bold aesthetic.

Credit: Press Handout/The Standard

The Red Room (The Connaught), Mayfair

This stunning speakeasy is discreetly nestled within the iconic Connaught hotel, accessible through a velvet-curtained doorway from the hotel’s Champagne Room. Designed by Bryan O’Sullivan, the bar seamlessly blends with the surrounding artwork, featuring vivid stained glass and limewashed walls that achieve a perfect harmony of class and modernity. The centrepiece of the bar is a luxurious pink onyx countertop, complemented by custom stools with elegant crystal stems, creating an ambiance that exudes sophistication and charm.

Credit: Deezen

Another notably beautiful bar in Mayfair is Isabel. This 1930s-inspired venue, designed by Juan Santa Cruz, seamlessly integrates nautical influences with Mediterranean and South American cuisine. The space is adorned with bold lighting and striking art-deco features, creating a dynamic and elegant ambiance. Cruz collaborated with Feng Shui masters to perfect the layout, resulting in a harmonious environment that balances rich wood with brighter colours, enhancing the warm, brown tones throughout the bar.

Credit: Isabel bar / Conde Nast Traveler

So, there you have it: a curated selection of our favourite spots across London where the architecture and ambiance make for memorable bar experiences. Each venue we’ve highlighted offers its own unique charm and style, from historical settings to modern interpretations. However, with London’s ever-evolving bar scene, we’re always on the lookout for hidden gems and new discoveries. If there are any establishments you feel deserve a mention and we’ve missed, we’d love to hear from you! Share your recommendations with us in the comments below so we can continue exploring and celebrating the diverse and vibrant bar culture that London has to offer.

Locations (Taylor’s Version)

Whether you love her or hate her, it’s undeniable that Taylor Swift is one of the biggest artists in the world right now. Taylor-fever has swept across the UK, especially with her recent sold-out stadium tour, where she celebrates her musical ‘eras’ by journeying through all her albums. To join in the celebration, we’ve decided to pair some of our favourite Taylor Swift albums with various locations we have on our books. Keep an eye out for hidden song titles!

Fearless – Swan Court

First, we’ve paired Taylor Swift’s second album, “Fearless,” with our very own Swan Court. Think bright, romantic, and nostalgic. At Swan Court, we can certainly envision a Love Story unfolding within its expansive grounds. Known for its storytelling, this album perfectly complements the array of portraits and chandeliers within Swan Court, creating the ideal backdrop for any song from “Fearless.”

Shoot Location – Swan Court (1st Option Locations)

Red – Marilyn

“Red” is a vibrant, dynamic, and adventurous album, so what better location than the gorgeous Marilyn? Extra points for the vibrant red stripes and pops of colour throughout the property. We know All Too Well how important personality is to a location, and Marilyn is filled with it. It even features a jukebox… anyone who books this location is certainly The Lucky One.

Shoot Location – Marilyn (1st Option Locations)

1989 – Empress

Although paired with Taylors album “1989” our location Empress is certainly not a Blank Space. 1989 is a playful yet empowering collection of songs full of reflection and nostalgia. Notable songs from this album include “Welcome to New York” and “New Romantics,” so what better location than Empress? With bright walls, rustic furnishings, and marble kitchen counters, this location is like something straight out of your Wildest Dreams. It certainly won’t go out of Style!

Shoot Location – Empress (1st Option Locations)

Reputation – Neo

This location is filled with Gorgeous art-deco stylings, marble countertops, and delicate sculptural light fittings. Taylor’s “Reputation” album exudes a sense of self with boldness and defiance, as well as being edgy and experimental. Neo’s bold onyx accents, walk-in wardrobes, and plush carpets perfectly capture this vibe. This fabulous location could certainly be your End Game.

Shoot Location – Neo (1st Option Locations)

Lover – Scarlet

With blush pink walls and inviting warm lighting, which location embodies the essence of “Lover” more than Scarlet? Featuring large windows that welcome ample Daylight and a striking chandelier, this setting strikes a perfect balance of warmth and brightness that resonates with the themes of Taylor Swift’s album. While it may not be on Cornelia Street, it’s sure to capture your heart, nonetheless.

Shoot Location – Scarlet (1st Option Locations)

Folklore – Parlour

Parlour is a magnificent Georgian house ideally situated near Victoria station. Yet, its foyer boasts opulent wallpaper adorned with lush green tree motifs, evoking an atmosphere that transports you to the heart of the woods, reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s album “Folklore.” Just as Swift crafts fictional characters and stories within her music, each room in this location has its own tale to tell. Perhaps this location is The 1 for you!

Shoot Location – Parlour (1st Option Locations)

The Tortured Poets Department – The Rock

Based in Devon, our location The Rock will have you wanting to say So Long, London and hello to the South West. A tortured poet certainly requires a place to write, preferably a view, and The Rock has exactly that. A nice peaceful location, perfect for writing poetry in. We guarantee you’ll be as Down Bad for The Rock as we are.

Shoot Location – The Rock (1st Option Locations)

So, there you have it—anything can be connected to Taylor Swift. How many secret song titles did you spot throughout this article? Did you catch them all? Let us know!

Exploring London’s Architectural Heritage

One of the many things that makes London such a charming city is undoubtedly the diversity in architecture and the history that comes with it. Take the iconic skyline from Greenwich as an example, skyscrapers fill the sky, side by side with brutalist tower blocks, framed by the iconic naval college and Maritime Museum. The Southbank, a mixture of glass and concrete, juxtaposed by St Pauls. These iconic spaces are just the start of the wide ranging styles to see.

London’s residential architecture is no exception. From Georgian, Victorian, to Art Deco and Modernist, we have it all. There are a number of features used in these periods that overlap and evolve, today we are breaking down a selection of the most popular styles.

Pixbay – Greenwich View

Georgian

When looking at this style one of the most iconic features of a Georgian house is the beautiful symmetry, and those fabulous windows. Georgian windows are traditionally a sash window with a six-panel grid design, this was due to glass technology available at the time. These stylish windows, along with the external symmetry, create a classical look. Other features found on the exteriors of Georgian homes include grand entrances often with columns, arches, decorative headers on windows and hip roofs.

Shoot Location – Petersham Common (1st Option Locations)

Victorian

This next notable era accounts for over a quarter of the homes in the UK, Victorian of course! This is unsurprising considering more than six million houses were built between 1837 and 1901. During this period, architectural styles became significantly more diverse, incorporating a wide array of unique features that made buildings more visually intriguing and distinctive. For example, some Victorian homes still have sash windows, often with less panes than the Georgian style, but with the popular slide up opening. Others have bay windows, stained glass, gothic style and decorative shapes. Victorian architecture saw asymmetric design, steep, tiled roofs and painted brick.

Shoot Location – Foxgrove (1st Option Locations)

Art Deco

Inspired by the industrial revolution, the Art Deco architectural style features bold shapes, geometric designs and bright colours. As well as being an architectural style, this movement encompassed furniture, textiles, ceramics and sculpture too. One of London’s most iconic Art Deco buildings is the Dehavilland building in Clapton, East London.

The Dehavilland Building

Modernist

Finally we’re looking at the modernist architectural movement. This style became prominent in the 20th century between the 30s and 60s. This style is the most drastic from the classical British architecture of the Georgian and Victorian eras. Originating from revolutions in technology, societal movements at the time, the modernist movement looked to get away from the traditional styles of building and to bring something radically different, functional and new. The modernist movement encompasses styles such as brutalism, with the various iconic London estates like the Barbican, Trellick Tower and The Brunswick Centre.

Shoot Location – Birchwood House (1st Option Locations, Photographer: Sophia Weston)

London’s architectural landscape is a testament to its rich and varied history, from grandiose decorative period properties to bold, geometric modernist structures. Which era is your favourite?

Celebrity Homes We Love

It is said that a lot can be told about someone by their home, and celebrities are no exception. When it comes to interior design, celebrities set the stage with a blend of personality and creativity, expressing themselves through their homes.

Whether it’s through collaboration with top designers or their own artistic vision, these celebrities prove that when it comes to home decor, the sky’s the limit. Therefore, we decided to curate a list of some of our favourite celeb’s homes for your own perusal. Get ready to step inside and be inspired by the dazzling decor, innovative ideas, and personal touches that define the homes of the stars.

Photo by Simon Watson/Architectural Digest

1. David Harbour and Lily Allen’s Brooklyn Townhouse

The fantastical world of David Harbour and Lily Allens home is accented by statement colours and personal touches. The duo teamed up with designer Billy Cotton and architect Ben Bischoff to carefully craft a blend of comfort and whimsy, juxtaposed against striking, sophisticated finishes.

With wide windows to let in natural light, and bold patterns, the home is filled with character. Note the floral accents in each room, creating a theme throughout the home. Grand fireplaces and patterned carpets fill the lounge, creating an overwhelming sense of comfortable busy-ness.

2. Matty Healy’s Humble Hideaway

Contrastingly, The lead singer of The 1975 is known for his signature monochromatic style, which seamlessly extends to his home decor, reflecting a consistent and sophisticated neutral aesthetic. Crafted by Takero Shimazaki Architects, the ultra-minimalist design draws inspiration from the Japanese ethos of ‘Wabi-Sabi’, embracing the beauty found in imperfection.

Takero Shimazaki Architects/ KeepingItNeutral Tumblr.

While opting for a monochromatic palette in home design isn’t unusual, the inclusion of wood and brass accents infuses this residence with a luminous, minimalist ambiance. Featuring stone-washed walls and expansive windows, this neutral yet radiant abode offers a serene retreat amidst the urban hustle and bustle.

Critics are divided on the home: is it an embodiment of flawless brutal minimalism or merely vacant and uninhabited? You decide!

3. Dita Von Teese’s Decorative Dwelling

In stark contrast to our previous home, the dancer’s maximalist paradise bursts with bold colours and decorations, yet it still preserves the original Tudor features of the house.

Photo by Trevor Tondro

Inspired by both maximalism and art deco, her home is a showcase of statement pieces. Noteworthy elements include bold chandeliers, copper accents, and animal motifs. Each room is uniquely designed, with maximalism being the unifying yet diverse theme throughout the house.

4. Rita Ora’s Historical Home

Next, step inside Rita Ora’s Victorian-era home, a treasure trove of vintage finds and thrifted delights. The singer’s abode strikes a perfect balance between minimalism and maximalism, featuring a harmonious blend of neutral tones and vibrant artwork.

Architectural Digest

Adorned with wooden finishes and large windows, Ora revealed to Architectural Digest her enduring fascination with homes that possess an old-world charm. This is particularly evident in the Grade II listed wooden partition in her home, which remains untouched and unalterable.

Whether these homes align with your personal taste or not, we hope this article has sparked some fresh inspiration for your own living space. Exploring the unique and diverse designs of these homes can offer new ideas and perspectives that you might incorporate into your own decor. Thank you for taking the time to read, and we hope you found it both enjoyable and insightful!

Our Favourite Shoots So Far This Year!

We’ve had a fun start to 2024 but we can’t believe it’s May already! To celebrate the first quarter, we thought we’d share some fab content from shoots that have taken place at our locations since January.

Not Actual Size X Dove at Reuben

Dove shot their Valentine’s campaign at our beautiful location house Reuben. With a focus on ways of ‘showing someone you love a random act of kindness’, this romantic shoot location was definitely the perfect choice for this project. It’s great to see our client utilising Reuben’s winning space – its delightful pink and white bathroom – to emphasise the message of their campaign. What we especially love about these BTS shots is that everything seems to look quite relaxing and calm…which is very rare for shoots!

Studio Augusto at Twilight

We really loved this shoot produced by Studio Augusto, shot at our location house Twilight. This project, titled ‘Songs of Love and Loss’ was created as a commentary on the different ‘dimensions of romantic interactions’. Through the selection of images, each collection focusing on a different pair, multiple themes are explored through the visuals and are established through their titles. Some of these included: ‘We’re not babies anymore’, ‘I missed you’ and ‘You make my life so much bigger’. This was definitely one of the most heart-warming, more personal shoots we’ve hosted at our locations so far this year.

Gym King at Kensington Loft

On a more fashionable note, this shoot was by and for Gym King, taken at our luxury Kensington Loft location. Oozing with style, the brand shot their most recent Spring ladies’ collection, and we couldn’t think of a better-suited property to match the vibe of this project.

Son Heung-Min for Harper’s Bazaar at Birchwood House

With a few Spurs supporters in the office (by that, we mean 2…) this shoot has to be one of our top favourites. Here we have Tottenham Hotspur star and captain, Son Heung-Min, in a range of stylish fits for Harper’s Bazaar at our magical photoshoot and filming location Birchwood House. Located in North West London, this location flaunts earthy tones across its interiors and is surrounded by beautiful foliage, working perfectly with the mysterious, smokey vibe of this super suave fashion shoot.

Puma X Openyy at Purley

Right…this Puma X Openyy shoot definitely caught our eye and we’re keen to share it with you all. Captured by the talented photographer Grant James Thomas at our shoot location Purely, this production screams edgy, creative and, well, slightly chaotic (but in a good way!). Check out one of the shots below, with the models showing off all kinds of wacky acrobatic skills.

Moss Bros at Troverta

Last, but not least, we had Moss Bros shoot their new collection of suits at the ambient eco-house Troverta. The neutral but warm colour palette of this location’s interiors goes so well with the styling that we think they must have been made for eachother! Using only two striking models, they really made this shoot pop, managing to give a commercial shoot a very chic, vintage finish through their creative direction and production.

That’s a Wrap!

We could go on forever…but we won’t! Make sure to let us know your favourite out of all the shoots. Also, if you fancy seeing more content like this, make sure to follow us on our social channels linked on our site!

Red Revelations: the ‘Unexpected red theory’

The Unexpected Red Theory, initially coined by Taylor Migliazzo Simon on TikTok, proposes that adding red accents to a space where it’s unexpected can dramatically enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Historiska Hem – Photographer: Fredric Boukari Styling: Åsa Copparstad

Red possesses a transformative energy capable of revitalising any space, whether it’s through a painted furniture piece, a captivating artwork, or even the intricate details of the woodwork. Its impact isn’t limited to walls alone; it can make a significant statement in various elements of interior design. In this photograph captured by Fredric Boukari, the woodwork on the French doors adds a distinctive flair to an otherwise neutral space, demonstrating the power of red to elevate aesthetics.

Over the last few years, we’ve noticed a real shift in preferences for both clients, with what they request and location owners in how they decorate their homes. Gone are the days where a blank canvas reins supreme, clients and home owners are steering towards houses that feel more like homes, whether that’s a maximalist take with pattern and colour or more muted tones, showing some personality in your décor is favourable.

Shoot Location – Hooks (1st Option Locations, Photographer: Sophia Weston)

We recently photographed a fabulous example of this In Honor Oak, our location house, Hooks. This Victorian House includes a stylish palette of greens, pastel pinks, deep blues and even some yellow. One standout aspect of the house that caught our eye was the vibrant red curtains adorning the kitchen/dining space. Naturally, the owner has curated a selection of red accessories, ranging from ramekins to artwork. However, our personal favourite addition is the charmingly painted red dining chair. See, the red works well in this space, it brings in extra life, without the red the space would still work, being a neutral space with some muted tones. But the red brings another life!

Shoot Location – Invisible House (1st Option Locations)

The theory finds another compelling example in Invisible House, a brutalist concrete structure that would otherwise be monochromatic. However, a statement red sofa introduces a dynamic contrast, transforming the space entirely.

Shoot Location – Birchwood House (1st Option Locations, Photographer: Sophia Weston)

Similarly, Birchwood House embraces the ‘Unexpected Red Theory’ in its dining space. A bold red bench serves as the focal point, providing a vibrant counterbalance to the brutalist aesthetic of the room.

Shoot Location – Hanover (1st Option Locations)

Taking the theory to new heights, Hanover exemplifies the concept with ingenuity. In the lounge area, bespoke joinery is finished in a captivating red hue, complemented by a bold red interior door and a visually striking striped, red fireplace surround.

There are a plethora of reds available at the moment, if you are looking for something striking try Atomic Red (Little Greene), Volcanic Red (Dulux) or High Voltage (Valspar). Looking for something more subtle? How about Red Earth (Farrow & Ball) or Caliente (Benjamin Moore)?

Left to right: Atomic Red, Red Earth, Volcanic Red, High Voltage, Caliente

By strategically incorporating red accents, these spaces transcend the ordinary, showcasing the power of unexpected elements to breathe new life into interior design.