Entering this quaint UK-based townhouse feels akin to stepping into a living kaleidoscope, where every glance reveals a new burst of colour, pattern and personality. Nestled within the vibrant landscape of East London’s Forest Gate, this once sterile, uninspiring, soulless new-build has undergone an impressive transformation, through the creative touch of Sabrina Panizza and Aude Lerin. As the creative forces behind London-based interior design and visual branding studio, PL Studio, this duo breathes life into spaces, infusing them with warmth, character and an infectious sense of joy. Rooted in the rich traditions of Italian design and French design, yet deeply connected to the dynamic synergy of South London, their work reflects a harmonious blend of influences with each space telling its own unique story.

The journey begins with a desire; a longing to escape the clinical confines of a newly completed townhouse and embrace a home brimming with vitality and positivity. Entrusted by a colour-loving couple with a vision, the design duo embarked on a mission to breathe life into the space, drawing inspiration from the enchanting hues of Majorelle blue and the evocative atmosphere of Marrakech in Morocco. “At PL Studio, we believe in creating spaces that reflect the personalities and spirits of our clients,” shared Panizza and Lerin. “Our response to the brief was a design packed with punch, colour and confidence.”

The soul of the transformation lies in the vibrant Mediterranean aesthetic that permeates every corner of the townhouse. From the captivating cobalt blue of the entryway to the sunny yellow accents and verdant greens that infuse warmth and joy throughout, each hue is carefully chosen to evoke the essence of Mediterranean-inspired living.

Central to this aesthetic journey is the electrifying shade of Majorelle blue; a hue that captivates the imagination and transports one to the sun-drenched landscapes of Morocco. In the entryway, this intense yet fresh blue sets the stage for a mesmerising Moroccan-inspired oasis, complete with references to the iconic Jardin Majorelle. Geometric designs and arches painted on the walls evoke a sense of magic, while the Tom Dixon Etch pendant light with finely pierced flat metal sheets casts intricate shadows, imbuing the space with an otherworldly allure.

Descending into the studio/psychologist cabinet, guests are enveloped in a soothing cocoon of colour and lighting design. The designers’ addition of surrealist touches such as the low table, and a trompe-l'œil ceiling, featuring a serene blue sky with billowing clouds, creates a dreamy atmosphere that encourages relaxation and introspection. It is a space designed to nurture the soul and stimulate the mind; a testament to the studio’s philosophy of creating environments that inspire and uplift.

As guests journey through the townhouse, the Majorelle blue serves as a guiding thread, weaving its way through each room and connecting disparate spaces into a harmonious whole. On the first floor, the principal bedroom is bathed in three shades of green, complemented by whimsical geometric patterns, black lines and playful pink accents from the artwork. A bespoke archway leads to the walk-in wardrobe, adorned with an iridescent sheer curtain that adds a touch of ethereal elegance.

“It takes a brave couple to embrace so much colour. Our clients didn’t have a clear idea of what they wanted, but they had a strong desire to be surrounded by pieces of art, colours and objects that would give them good energy, which is so powerful. They were not afraid of mixing different shades and colour combinations, so we went for bright, bold, and fearless,” share the interior designers.

Adjacent to the principal bedroom, the guestroom beckons with its joyful yet calming ambience. A striped green ceiling adds a playful touch, creating a captivating contrast with the natural cane work wardrobes and Moroccan rug design. It is a space designed for relaxation and rejuvenation like a tranquil retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

Ascending to the second floor, guests are greeted by a large open space dedicated to the living areas. Here, PL Studio has crafted a playful contemporary interpretation of traditional wall panelling, with rectangular shapes adorning the walls behind the dining table. Bright orange, cobalt blue, and blush pink enliven the space, evoking a cheerful atmosphere that is perfect for entertaining family and friends. The wall design has also been used to create a visual division between the dining room and the kitchen space; the inverted electric mint green and white, connected by a pink stripe running along the open space, provide clearly defined spaces that still look cohesive and flow into each other.

In the living room, vintage furniture pieces mingle with a Berber rug and a pastel pink sofa, creating an inviting space that exudes warmth and sophistication. The Pluck kitchen, with its sophisticated Ruskin Blossom pink cabinets, adds a touch of elegance to the space, while the bold use of colour and unexpected details inject a sense of whimsy and charm.

At the heart of PL Studio's design philosophy lies a commitment to maximal minimalism; a harmonious blend of Panizza's love for maximalism and Lerin's passion for minimalism. Clean lines and simple geometric shapes are juxtaposed with bold colours and punchy patterns, creating a rich tapestry of visual delight that celebrates the joy of the unexpected.

"Inspired by the captivating use of colour in iconic design movements of the 20th century, we seek to create spaces that are both elegant and humorous," share Panizza and Lerin. "Our signature design is a sophisticated celebration of the joy of life; a vibrant oasis where warmth, joy, and boundless creativity abound,” they add.

PL Studio's designs celebrate diversity and eclectic influences, weaving together a rich tapestry of styles from across the globe. Inspired by the homeowners' love for travel and cultural exploration, the interiors showcase a harmonious fusion of Moroccan motifs, mid-century modern accents and bohemian touches. From intricately patterned rugs to vintage textiles and handcrafted artefacts, each piece tells a story, adding depth and character to the space. The result is a home that feels truly unique, where every corner invites curiosity and discovery.

The design studio embraces the beauty of imperfection and celebrates the quirky, whimsical details that make each space truly one-of-a-kind. From mismatched furniture designs to playful accessories and unexpected colour combinations, the interior design encourages a sense of spontaneity and individuality. Whether it's a hand-painted mural art adorning the walls or a collection of vintage curios displayed on shelves, these charming quirks add warmth and personality to the townhouse, inviting inhabitants to embrace their eccentricities and embrace the joy of living authentically.

In a city where conformity often reigns supreme, PL Studio's makeover of the East London townhouse shines as a symbol of innovation and personal expression. From room to room, the design duo have fashioned a dwelling that mirrors life's diverse hues; a haven resonating with warmth, delight and limitless imagination.