LONDON TOWNHOUSE PROJECT | Q&A with Interior Designer Nicky Dobree

Nicky Dobree is an award-winning international designer based in London but working globally. Having grown up in Paris and Vietnam and travelled extensively, Nicky’s inspiration has come from all corners of the world. Her reputation has continued to grow over the last 20 years and has established her as a renowned international designer with clients across the UK, Europe and North America. She has completed many projects from major city residences to rural estates and has designed and built some of the world’s most luxurious alpine retreats in all the leading ski resorts including Whistler, Verbier, St Moritz, Klosters, Gstaad, Meribel, Chamonix, Megeve and beyond.

She has recently completed her first boutique hotel in Andalusia, Spain and is currently working on projects across the UK and Europe. Nicky offers a discerning service to national and international private clients working with an extensive network of skilled craftsmen. She creates eye catching interiors with a strong sense of place by fusing modern lines with traditional vernacular and we love how she introduces contemporary details in an understated and discreet way creating a timeless look and feel. Ultimately her designs have all the hallmarks of classic elegance and enduring comfort.

Last year we worked with Nicky on a large scale renovation and extension of a London Townhouse project which has resulted in a classic, elegant and comfortable home with an interior design that will truly stand the test of time. We caught up with Nicky recently to talk to her about the end result now the project is completed and the clients are settling in to their beautiful newly renovated home…

1. What was the brief for the London Townhouse project?

Nicky: The brief was to design a family home for an English couple and their four children. The house was stripped back to its bare bones, a basement and conservatory extension added, and the layout of the rooms re-configured. Cornice details and panelling were reinstated to create the elegant home that it is today.

2. When it came to the kitchen and dining space, why did you and the clients choose to work with Humphrey Munson?

Nicky: The kitchen is at the heart of this home and we wanted something that would sit timelessly within the space and function well for the client’s needs. HM were the ideal partner for this, offering a totally bespoke service and a timeless design. They have been a joy to work with and their reputation for excellence in design and craftsmanship resonated with us too.

3. Are there any aspects of the kitchen and dining space that the clients particularly love?

Nicky: The clients love the elegance of the kitchen which sits so well within the architecture of the house. It is a very convivial space to be in and is both practical and functional, with each of the client’s wishes being carefully considered.

4. Is there any one aspect of the interior design that you feel instantly elevates the overall aesthetic?

Nicky: Designing floor-to-ceiling cabinetry enveloping the island gave elegance and grandeur to the room creating a calming space to be. Behind each cupboard door is a well-designed interior be it a larder, an office or a breakfast area all out of sight yet easily accessible and practical.

5. How would you describe your interior design style?

Nicky: Classic, elegant and timeless.

6. Going into 2023 is there anything you’re particularly excited about or any projects we should keep an eye out for?

Nicky: 2023 is set to be a busy year with projects in the UK, the Mediterranean and the Alps. I am also excited that we will be working with HM on another couple of projects too.

If you’d like to hear Nicky talking more about her interior design work, she recorded a podcast for the House Guest with Carole Annett which gives a wonderful insight into how she got into the industry, the difference between a typical house project and a ski chalet, and attention to sustainability when embarking on projects.

Image credit: Philip Vile

For more information and to contact Nicky directly, visit the website here and follow on instagram here.