Inspired by the Middle Eastern palaces (yes, that's plural!) of its owners, Badrieh Johari, founder of JHR Interiors, melds Islamic and Georgian design elements in a home fit for a king and queen.
Words by Spoorthi Satheesh
photos courtesy of JHR Interiors
JHR Interiors - a London-based boutique design firm - has made its mark in London's most illustrious postal codes, including Knightsbridge, Belgravia, and in the case of this palatial townhome, the upscale district of Mayfair in the West End. Founder and interior designer Badrieh Johari, a Dubai native herself, was the perfect choice for the glorious task of restoring every inch of this 18th Century Georgian townhouse - one of the city's finest residences. "I have an intimate understanding of the Middle Eastern culture and lifestyle and how people from the region prefer to use their spaces," she explains.
Badrieh Johari
This unique project included the construction of a banquet hall at the rear of the property, the installation of several outdoor terraces, and the excavation of a double basement to include an indoor pool, staff quarters, and an underground health and wellness complex.
The walls of the entrance hall are embellished with onyx and polished brass. A custom-designed floor light is covered with Lalique crystal panels. "It looks spectacular when you walk in the door and it's the first thing you notice, particularly when it's lit," says Johari.
A cable-free lift system to serve all floors was incorporated into the massive renovation project.
Here, Johari details how she preserved the striking features of the property's heritage, imparted a contemporary luxury, and incorporated Islamic art and design elements to make her Middle Eastern clients feel at home in their veritable palace located at one of Mayfair's most prestigious addresses.
SS: What was your clients' vision for this home?
BJ: The clients wanted to have every single piece within the property bespoke to suit their needs and taste - from the small details in the embroidery to more grand aspects such as the water jet-cut onyx and marble flooring.
Stimulated by the clients' art and collectibles, Johari subtly intermingled their pieces into the decor without going over the top.
SS: The master suite is truly spectacular and luxurious. Tell us more about it.
BJ: The master bedroom features a floor-to-ceiling paneling wall with moon gold gilding, a Baccarat chandelier, carved fireplace, and Persian silk rug. The floors are dressed with marble slabs, and the recessed ceiling has an elaborate cornicing detail. We kept the overall look of the room neutral, with muted cerulean and royal blue for a pop of color.
SS: How does the restored version situate itself in today’s context while paying homage to the era of its original construction?
BJ: We feel we achieved balance by respecting the building's period features and enhancing them while integrating Islamic geometric details as complements. We were able to restore the original grandeur and sense of scope whilst making it appropriate for contemporary family life, and impressive enough for entertaining.
To learn more about JHR Interiors or to inquire further, visit: jhr-interiors.com
