The sublime interiors of Cheyne Walk

Michael Reeves, the celebrated designer, recently completed work on one of Cheyne Walk’s most impressive properties. He sat down with Russell Simpson to share his experience of refurbishing the interiors, having been asked to prepare the rooms for rental.

The condition was good, but two challenges remained. First, Michael had to create harmony between his own aesthetic and the starker contemporary style of the previous designer, while introducing ‘softer, more feminine’ elements. Second, the work had to be completed in record time.

Fortunately, the plumbing and electrics were overseen by another contractor, which meant Michael could focus on the creative side. Many of the changes were made to the furniture, such as replacing all the beds and adding items from his own collection. These not only matched the contemporary setting but also introduced much-needed comfort.

In other cases, Michael worked with the pre-existing design of the room. For example, the wall panelling on the first-floor had been emphasised with faux-leather and other textured materials. So, Michael chose chairs that would add some restraint to these elements, as well as works of art that fitted between the panels.

Elsewhere, Michael ‘pared down the decorative items to simplify the overall effect.’ For instance, he shortened the hems of the curtains so that they brushed the floor, and incorporated the fabric sacking on the walls of the front hall, as well as the attractive cork that lined the corridor opposite the wine cellar. These materials were well-suited to the blended colour scheme and appealed to Michael’s taste for interesting textures.

Michael explains his philosophy as follows: ‘Houses should look tranquil before any furniture goes in. With a neutral backdrop, when you introduce art and fabrics – even a pillow on a sofa – they can do a huge amount of the decorative work. So, rather than starting out with a lot of colour, which then becomes confused when you add pictures and accessories, I prefer to focus on the textures and patterns.’

At the same time, more modest interiors give space for a new owner or occupier to express their tastes. This is especially true for rental properties, as Michael jokes: ‘I’ve been banging on about this for years.’

He goes on: ‘When the renters move in, they will also bring colour into the rooms. Some designers decorate down to the last little detail, but then people have their own personal things they want to add into the mix. It’s really important for me that people can insert their own personalities and tastes. There’s also the fact that, if half a dozen people are occupying a room, they will be wearing different clothes which introduce more colour. So, you have to give space for those personalities to show themselves.’

Michael’s original approach can be explained in part by his background. He spent 25 years working in fashion, but in 1995 moved to interior design. His first shop in Brompton Cross contained a mix of antique pieces and more modern decorative accessories. Clients began commissioning him to design their homes, and since then he has worked on projects in London, New York, and Dubai, as well as France, Italy, China and Mustique.

Michael also launched a range of upholstered furniture – mostly bespoke items crafted in England. In addition, he worked with Louis Vuitton to provide specially selected pieces of furniture for every refurbished boutique worldwide. The showroom is now located on the Pimlico Road, featuring his own furniture mixed with vintage pieces and works by different artists.

Although Michael adapts his designs to suit each client, the same principles apply throughout: scale, proportion, balance and comfort. His interiors on Cheyne Walk are an excellent example, especially the drawing room and study occupying the first floor. Because Michael made all the furniture for these rooms, they give the best impression of his aesthetic. The neutral base tones ensure each item matches, accentuated with touches of warm colour. ‘These are the most Michael Reeves spaces,’ he concludes.

Explore the full Cheyne Walk listing here.