Imagine a home where every corner tells a story, and every color, pattern, and piece of art whispers of a life lived boldly. That’s exactly what Romanos Brihi has achieved in his Kensington maisonette—a space that’s as vibrant and eclectic as its owner. But here’s where it gets controversial: in a city obsessed with maximizing bedrooms for resale value, Romanos defiantly transformed his space into a one-bedroom sanctuary, prioritizing personal joy over market trends. Is this a stroke of genius or a risky move? Let’s dive in.
It all began in 2006, when Romanos, co-founder of Studio Vero alongside Venetia Rudebeck, first laid eyes on this Victorian terrace. The cherry blossoms in full bloom that Easter season left an indelible mark on him. ‘It felt like destiny,’ he recalls. Yet, the property slipped through his fingers due to its steep price, only to re-emerge four years later. This time, he didn’t hesitate. And this is the part most people miss: what he bought was far from perfect. The maisonette was a maze of small, low-ceilinged rooms, with a garden accessible only through a bedroom. But Romanos saw potential where others might have seen chaos.
The renovation was no small feat. He boldly reduced the bedrooms from three to one, creating expansive living spaces that felt more like a house than a flat. Instead of adding a modern glass extension, he opted for a cantilevered staircase and excavated the lower ground floor to improve ceiling heights. The result? A seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary functionality. But here’s the question: in a world that often prioritizes practicality over passion, is such a transformation worth the effort?
The heart of the home is undoubtedly the kitchen, a space Romanos envisioned as a gateway to the garden. While he admits to being no Martha Stewart, the room serves as both a culinary hub and a creative workspace, piled high with books and curiosities. ‘It’s incredibly inspiring,’ he says, gazing out at the greenery. The garden itself is an entertainer’s dream, with fitted stone benches that seat 20—a testament to Romanos’ love for hosting.
Art is the soul of this home, and every piece has a story. From a gouache by Fernand Léger in the bedroom to Matisse lithographs in the back sitting room, the collection is a reflection of Romanos’ journey. But here’s where it gets personal: his most cherished pieces are kept in the bedroom, the most intimate space in the flat. ‘It’s like having a piece of my heart in every corner,’ he explains. Is this the ultimate form of self-expression, or does it risk overwhelming the space?
The maisonette’s two floors are a study in contrasts—upstairs, elegant and airy; downstairs, cozy yet dramatic. In the front sitting room, a custom sofa by Adam Bray is surrounded by a gallery of paintings, including works by David Hockney and Celina Teague. And this is the part that sparks debate: an enigmatic landscape by Gary Bunt, which some might find moody, Romanos describes as ‘dramatic and powerful.’ What do you think? Is art meant to challenge, or should it always bring comfort?
As we step back to admire the whole, one thing is clear: Romanos’ home is a manifesto of living authentically. It challenges conventions, celebrates spontaneity, and invites us to rethink what a home can be. But here’s the final question: in a world that often values conformity, is there room for such bold individuality? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
