Designer Transforms Former London Convent with Mustard Mohair and Art

In central London, spacious layouts are a rare find. This duplex, located in a converted convent, offers just that: a wide, uninterrupted floor plan lacking the usual architectural guidelines for a home.

For the owners, who split their time between the city and a country house in northern England, this space marked a shift towards a more urban and expressive atmosphere.

Upon first visiting, interior designer Peter Mikic recognized the challenge presented by this house design.

'The living room was one expansive space,' he notes. 'While it was impressive, creating a sense of intimacy within that volume was a challenge.'

His approach was skillful. Instead of imposing a rigid structure, he nurtured the space—utilizing subtle architectural changes alongside a thoughtful mix of colors and textures to convert the large area into distinct, welcoming zones.

Two slatted oak dividers were key to this transformation, subtly defining the main living areas while preserving an open flow. Sight lines remain generous, but each section feels anchored, inviting moments of pause.

Lacking a clear architectural narrative, color and texture became the defining elements of the apartment. With a fashion background, Peter approached color instinctively, involving the owners in the process.

They brought a collection of contemporary art that influenced much of the color scheme, while their three teenagers also contributed ideas.

'During our initial meeting, we discussed their preferred colors: mustard yellows, greens, and blues,' he recalls. 'Those themes shaped the design.'

In the living area, two oversized sofas in mustard mohair anchor the room, designed to complement the expansive space.

From this foundation, the design unfolds: a Paonazzo marble fireplace with dramatic veining draws attention, echoing the bold energy of the Jean-Michel Basquiat screen print above, while bronze table lamps and a curvy wooden coffee table add contrast to the softer palette.

A muted gold rug, thick and tactile, establishes the material richness present throughout.

Texture plays a vital role. Bouclé, velvet, sheepskin, and mohair all passed the essential 'cheek test': 'If it's itchy, it goes.'

Even the shelving in the sitting room—crafted to hide home office items—is softened with fabric backing, while the staircase handrail is wrapped in navy leather for a luxurious touch.

Rugs are essential, grounding each area without being overpowering. Instead of bold patterns, Peter selected richly textured monochrome designs with subtle variations in pile height for visual interest.

In the dining room, a pink rug anchors the space, complemented by yellow blinds, blush-toned seating, and vibrant green and blue artwork. A mid-century sideboard adds historical context, while the bouclé dining chairs resonate with the playful yet refined style of Jean Royère.

The kitchen features a veined marble peninsula that helps delineate the area while providing informal seating.

'We aimed for a bistro vibe,' Peter explains, merging glazed wall cabinets with stained green cabinetry that highlights the wood grain.

The primary bedroom features soft, shifting blues, providing a calming contrast to the vibrant energy found elsewhere in the apartment, accentuated by a striking brass four-poster bed and a sculptural mustard sofa.

The children's rooms on the upper level showcase a playful spirit: terrazzo floors and bright tiles reflect their personalities without being typical.

Throughout, Peter strikes a balance between antiques, vintage finds, and contemporary items—both his own and those by other artisans.

'I don't want to be the only designer in the room,' he states. 'There's incredible talent out there. Well-made pieces enhance the overall design.'

A standout piece is the sitting room cabinet by artist Matthew Raw, adorned with handmade tiles in a petrol-blue glaze.

'This is the kind of artwork that will look fantastic even after 50 years,' Peter remarks—an heirloom in the making.