Take a boring, highrise apartment completely lacking character, add lots of bold colours and patterns and artwork and you have yourself a knock-out! This Harlem apartment by designer Anthony George proves you can add so much personality and interest though paint and carefully curated furnishings, art and accessories.

For the record I don’t think this is an actual château but since it sure looks like it could be one I’m going with it 🙂 This is the summer home of Argentinian architect Luis Laplace and his partner Christophe Comoy. (It was Christophe’s grandmother’s, and they purchased it when she passed away. It had been in their family since the French Revolution) . It was built in the 17th century and is located in the Gaillac region of Tarn, France. This home is an absolute dream inside and out. (Photos: via Luis’ website, via Pascal Chevallier – Vogue, via Nicolas Mathéus – Elle Décoration)

I absolutely love all the character and personality in this home, care of designer Ben Pentreath. In 2013, we were engaged to work on the interior decoration of a substantial Edwardian house in Hampstead. The fine house was in need of significant refurbishment, and we worked closely with the local Hampstead architects Charlton Brown in developing internal layouts and plans for the new owners, a recently-married young couple. These developed to include an underground swimming pool, new kitchen extension and a significant remodelling of some of the internal spaces. Jointly with the clients, we drew inspiration from the Arts and Crafts, in particular the papers of William Morris, but in combination with other themes and strands that ranged from the late 19th century aesthetic movement, through mid-century modernism, to significant contemporary elements. Surrounded by generous gardens and trees, the house has the hint of a rural atmosphere; this too provided part of the inspiration, and we used soft, natural materials and floor coverings. The mood is designed to be calm and tranquil, but to provide visual richness and stimulation throughout.

This home in Del Mar, California takes Mediterranean vibes and adds a dose of modernity to it. Lots of wood, textures, and a very pale, neutral palette make this really peaceful, inviting and warm. Designed by Intimate Living Interiors. Photos: Karyn Millett.

Heroldian Art Concepts is a consultancy agency based in Hamburg, Germany, that specializes in art collections and their interaction with interior design. The brainchild of Katharina Marie Herold, it seems she was destined to work with art as she is the daughter of a renowned gallerist and grew up surrounded by art. Such a rewarding career this must be.