Minimalist Reflections
Partners at the design practice 1508 London, Louise Wicksteed and Hamish Brown convey the refined synergy displayed throughout this Istanbul abode
The penthouse’s strategic location at the top of a modest apartment block provided free reign to transform the architectural façade and interiors. “It is almost like a glass box that sits on top of the building,” says Louise. “We completely stripped it out and started again.” An open plan living space was conceived, encompassed with frameless windows to achieve a seamless synergy with the exterior environment. “The whole concept behind the design was to link the space visually,” notes Louise. “So as soon as you come into the living space, you get these beautiful views over towards the water,” she notes. “It wasn’t about overindulgent interiors,” says Hamish, “But about focusing on the exterior view.” Sliding glass panels were integrated throughout the windows to further blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces. White linen curtains frame the windows to achieve an evocative shield – striking a balance with the glass windows and marble manifested across the floors.
The kitchen remains the focal point of the open plan living area. Amidst integrated appliances, the kitchen island acts as a centrepiece – mounted with stainless steel and anchored with an onyx stone base. The surface of reflects the surge of natural light streaming through the windows. The blue hues of the surrounding sea and verdant green hills served as inspiration for producing bespoke layers of onyx stone. “We wanted to bring some of that palette inside,” notes Louise. “This onyx doesn’t exist in this colour. It was created by placing a coloured panel behind a white onyx,” she explains. In contrast, the main living area was conceived as a warmer space, achieved with a dark timber wood joinery which frames the television. Tactile textures such as velvet upholstery and silk rugs juxtapose with white onyx and bronze. Continuing the sculptural forms of the kitchen lights, the living room’s pendant lights feature a gun metal finish with an accent of brass. “Everything that we’ve done is very grounded in pure materials and not overly embellished,” explains Hamish.
A stainless-steel decorative screen lines the staircase which leads towards the master bedroom on the second floor. The screen pays tribute to the ancient Turkish selçuk pattern – casting an interplay of light and shadow. “It creates this evocative moment of transition,” notes Louise. The master bedroom features a neutral colour palette complemented with a transitional use of materials. “You get this striking line that runs along the room,” explains Louise. “It’s a very subtle material change. It goes from timber to a sycamore veneer into a cream nubuck leather panel behind the bed.” Lacquered wood cabinets accented with metal inlay are paired with iridescent, silk-woven carpets draped across the floors. “Every piece in this apartment has been carefully curated and considered,” says Louise. “That is where the beauty lies.”