Client Case Study
A sanctuary of relaxation, repose and beauty
What was once a house full of bits and pieces now feels curated, calm, and unmistakably theirs.
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Nicci helped us create a sanctuary of relaxation, repose and beauty
Jane McCann, Brooklyn
The Brief
Jane and Peter had lived for well over a decade in their 1901 villa. As they approached retirement, they wanted their home to feel like a sanctuary — calm, welcoming, and reflective of their taste and values. They didn’t want to start from scratch or waste what they already had. Instead, they were looking for guidance on how to refresh their home in a way that felt cohesive and timeless.
BEFORE
The Challenge
Although the villa had beautiful bones, the couple had accumulated a lot of furniture and accessories over the years—many with sentimental value. Peter had different preferences, and the two weren’t always on the same page when it came to style. They also weren’t sure what to keep, what to move, and where to begin with their update.
BEFORE
The Approach
We approached their home refresh, with a focus on creating more cohesion starting with the existing colours and furnishings they already had working well. We clarified their shared vision and found smart ways to make use of what they already owned.
AFTER
Improved Flow
Furniture was rearranged to improve flow and comfort, and two very comfortable armchairs (that were almost replaced because Jane thought they were too big) worked perfectly in their window nook once we got them feeling more balanced with a rug and side tables.
AFTER
Favourite pieces were given pride of place with the addition of custom shelving in the far corner of the lounge, and long and low shelving under their precious family photo wall.
cUSTOM sHELVING
AFTER
rEFINED cOLOUR pALETTE
We refined the colour palette to create a more pleasing and cohesive connection between rooms. The deep blue living room wall was retained and complemented by new soft neutrals and a warm teal behind the bookshelves. This gave each space its own personality while still feeling connected. The dining area colours that had lacked cohesion, were repainted in tones that made the spaces work much better together.
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She reused, renovated, and refurbished everything from chairs to drapes.
Jane McCann, Brooklyn
The Results
What was once a house full of "bits and pieces" now feels curated, calm, and timeless. We didn’t replace much at all - but instead created cohesion, by curating their art and accessories more effectively. Jane and Peter’s home now tells their story—layered, personal and elegant without feeling “done-by-a-designer”.
Their much-loved items have pride of place, and every room now works beautifully. Both functionally and aesthetically.
It’s not just a prettier space—it’s a home that feels like them.
AFTER
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Her approach is organic, natural and not at all contrived.
Nicci worked alongside us in partnership to co-create a timeless look that we both love. Her approach is organic, natural and not at all contrived.
She listened to our ‘needs’ and offered options – she avoided trends and fads, and reused our much loved books and furniture.
Nicci helped us create a sanctuary of relaxation, repose and beauty – a joyous place to rest and entertain our family and friends. She reused, renovated, and refurbished everything from chairs to drapes.
Jane McCann, Brooklyn
Want to create a home that reflects you both?
I'd love to help bring your home to life, with creative, cost-effective updates that turn your house into a home.