Completed Project: Chapel Row, Bath

Respecting Georgian Heritage Through Thoughtful Interior Design

I'm delighted to share a little about one of our latest projects: Chapel Row, a beautiful Georgian property in the heart of Bath.

Khaya Studio was commissioned to redesign the dining room and stairwell of this wonderful listed building. From the outset, it was important that the interiors respected the property's architectural heritage, enhancing its original character while introducing a fresh, considered design that would work beautifully for modern living.

Working within a historic property always presents an interesting design challenge. It's about understanding what makes a building special, recognising the details that should be celebrated and finding ways to introduce new elements without compromising its character.

Chapel Row was a particularly lovely opportunity to do just that.

A little history: Chapel Row, Bath

Chapel Row forms part of a terrace of three Grade II listed townhouses, originally designed by renowned Georgian architect John Wood the Elder and dating back to approximately 1734.

Built as part of the western expansion of Bath, the terrace is constructed from the city's characteristic limestone ashlar, with slate roofs, sash windows, elegant stone detailing and deep mansard roofs.

The houses were first recorded in the local rates in 1734, making them part of Bath's fascinating early Georgian development. The name Chapel Row derives from a nearby chapel built by John Wood in 1732, which was later demolished in 1875.

John Wood the Elder was instrumental in shaping Georgian Bath, and his influence can still be seen throughout the city today. Working within a building designed by such an important figure in Bath's architectural history makes it all the more important to approach any interior changes with sensitivity and respect.

Designing with the architecture

My approach to interior design is always rooted in the architecture of the property. I don't believe in imposing a particular style onto a building; instead, I look for ways to draw out its existing character and create a scheme that feels as though it belongs.

With Chapel Row, the dining room and stairwell needed to feel connected to the history of the house, while also serving the needs of contemporary life.

The Georgian proportions and architectural detailing provided a wonderful starting point. Rather than competing with these features, the design needed to complement them, creating a sense of cohesion between the original building and the new interior elements.

When working with listed properties, it's also important to understand that changes may require careful consideration and, where applicable, listed building consent. Respecting the building's heritage isn't simply an aesthetic decision; it's part of the responsibility of working with historic architecture.

Bringing historic homes into modern living

One of the things I love most about working with period properties is finding the balance between old and new.

A home should feel connected to its history, but it also needs to work for the people living in it today. The most successful interiors, in my opinion, are those where contemporary comfort and historic character sit naturally alongside one another.

This is something I consider across all my projects, whether I'm working on a Georgian townhouse in Bath, a Victorian terrace in Bristol or a country farmhouse in Somerset.

Every property has its own story, and I believe the interior should be part of that story rather than an attempt to rewrite it.

The Client's review:

"From start to finish, Kate was a total professional. We gave her a rather difficult brief as our Georgian period Bath dining room was subterranean but she stepped up to the challenge and the end result is a total transformation. It is light-filled and now feels like a warm and cozy space for entertaining and family meals - we are so pleased with the end result!

Kate is friendly and approachable, and was willing to pivot when some of our plans changed mid-design. She offers a cadre of professional tradesman who did their jobs impeccably, and on schedule. We would not hesitate to recommend Kate to other Bath home-owners in need of interior design assistance.”

- Victoria C, Google Review

Interior design in Bath, Bristol and Somerset

At Khaya Studio, I specialise in residential interior design and project management, working with clients across Bath, Bristol, Somerset and the surrounding areas.

From individual room transformations to more extensive home renovations, I offer a personal, considered service that takes care of the design process from the initial concepts through to sourcing, procurement, coordination of trades and final installation.

Chapel Row is a wonderful reminder of why I love working with historic homes. Their character, proportions and architectural details offer so much inspiration, and it's a privilege to help clients make the most of these special properties.

I'm looking forward to sharing more of this project as it progresses.

Kate x

Looking for an interior designer in Bath, Bristol or Somerset? Get in touch with Khaya Studio to discuss your home renovation or interior design project.