The Brief

Our clients, who had spent time living in Europe, wanted to transform a little-used TV room into a sophisticated bar space. Their vision was a 1920s Parisian-style parlour with a moody ambience — ideal for entertaining friends, watching sport or enjoying a quiet glass of wine. The room connects directly to the pool terrace, so seamless flow and practicality were also important. They asked us to retain the original dark timber floor, incorporate a family heirloom chandelier and respect the home’s heritage features such as the stained glass bay windows and French doors.

The Design

Taking inspiration from the existing bay window and curved window seat, we echoed soft curves throughout the design. Arched shelving and a gently curved U-shaped bar create harmony with the architecture while improving circulation through the room.

The bar is fully equipped for entertaining with a double keg pourer, keg fridge, wine fridge, single DishDrawer and double rubbish bins. Oak veneer joinery brings warmth and richness, complemented by a polished Dekton benchtop with custom brass detailing and a curved mosaic upstand. Bronze mirror backs the shelving for reflection and depth, while brass is repeated in the foot rail and glassware racks.

Lighting was carefully layered for versatility. LED strips in shelving and under bar overhangs create a soft glow, the restored chandelier provides a focal point over the round bay window table, and discreet downlighting is available when required. The reupholstered curved window seat adds comfort, and a wall-mounted TV introduces a subtle sports-bar element when desired.

Key Features

• U-shaped oak veneer bar with polished Dekton benchtop and brass detailing

• Double keg tap, keg fridge, wine fridge, single DishDrawer and double rubbish bins

• Curved joinery and arched shelving reflecting the home’s heritage bay window

• Bronze mirror and brass racks for warmth and reflection

• Restored family heirloom chandelier above bay window table

• Layered LED and chandelier lighting for a moody atmosphere

• Smart concealed storage, including cupboards for board games

• Original dark timber floor retained to honour the home’s character

Challenges & Solutions

Working within a heritage footprint – we needed to respect the home’s original features. Echoing the bay window’s curves in the joinery allowed us to introduce new elements without losing the home’s character.

Creating smooth circulation – the curved bar front improved movement through the room, especially between the French doors and pool terrace.

Balancing mood and practicality – multiple layers of lighting ensured the bar could function for evening entertaining as well as daytime use.

Services: Residential Renovation, Full Interior Design

Photography: Mark Scowen