A Walk Through WOW!House 2025’s
11July2025 By Katia Perez, Founder of KPD Interior Design Studio — Serving the Home Counties & London
Stepping into WOW!House 2025 felt like entering a world of design joy, thanks to the grand Georgian-style entrance by Darren Price from Adam Architecture. It was a striking and elegant introduction to what lay ahead, setting the scene with classical symmetry, proportion, and presence. The space was beautifully finished with exquisite detailing by Locker & Riley – we loved every bit of it, from the crisp cornices to the richly patterned flooring. A true celebration of timeless craftsmanship with a welcoming, uplifting spirit.
Here, we share our favourite sets, rooms, and schemes – and the moments that truly caught our attention.
1. The Fromental Room
This drawing room design by Chad Dorsey at WOW!house 2025 absolutely blew me away—I’m genuinely buzzing about it! From the moment you step in, the intricate hand-painted wall panels catch your eye, perfectly meeting at every corner with incredible precision. The subtle, soft palette lets the walls do all the talking, creating a calm, harmonious vibe that feels both fresh and timeless. Even the ceilings work in perfect harmony, making the whole room feel beautifully balanced and inviting.
What really makes this space sing are the curvy sofas that add a playful yet elegant touch, paired effortlessly with oversized artwork and a mix of carefully chosen antiques. The bronze detailing throughout adds just the right amount of warmth and luxe sparkle, making every detail pop without overwhelming the subtle colour story. I love how this room shows that sometimes less truly is more—high-end, thoughtful design that’s all about the details and feels incredibly alive without shouting. Totally inspiring!
Here are the key points you should consider should you want to mimic this style in your home;
Statement Wallcoverings: Use intricate, hand-painted or detailed floral wallpaper or panels to create a focal point and add artistic interest to your space.
Subtle, Neutral Palette: Stick to soft, muted tones for a calming and cohesive backdrop that allows textures and details to shine.
Mix of Textures: Combine different textures, like the woven fabric of the sofa and the smooth surfaces of the coffee table and cabinet, to add depth and tactile interest.
Curvy Upholstery: Incorporate rounded, curvy sofas or chairs to soften the room’s lines and add a trendy, inviting touch.
Layered Lighting: Use table lamps with warm lighting to create cosy pockets of light and enhance the room’s ambiance.
Eclectic Accessories: Mix vintage or antique pieces with modern decor to add character and a curated feel.
Metallic Accents: Add subtle bronze or gold details through decorative objects or hardware to bring warmth and sophistication.
Patterned Rug: Choose a rug with a structured geometric pattern in complementary colors to anchor the seating area and add visual interest.
Image credit: Katia Perez Design
2. Modern Craftsmanship at Its Finest
One of the standout spaces at WOW!House 2025 was the study designed by Staffan Tollgard Studio in collaboration with Phillip Jeffries—a room that truly felt like stepping into a piece of art. The walls were clad in Phillip Jeffries’ Modern Muse, a breath-taking wallcovering crafted from thin slices of oak and paulownia wood, each one hand-dyed and meticulously laid to form a monumental, abstract composition. The artistry continued onto the ceiling, where a bold black Quartz wallcovering added drama, depth, and a touch of sparkle. The way the wall and ceiling coverings flowed together created a cohesive, immersive experience—striking, tactile, and utterly captivating. This room didn’t just showcase design; it celebrated craftsmanship at its finest.
If you want to recreate this jaw-dropping style in your own home, follow these 5 key design tips;
Choose Statement Wallcoverings
Opt for wallcoverings that feel like art—textural, handcrafted, and full of visual impact. Materials like hand-dyed wood veneers or grass cloth add warmth, character, and dimension to a space instantly.
Blend Wall & Ceiling Treatments
Don’t stop at the walls! Extend your chosen materials or patterns onto the ceiling for a fully immersive design. In this room, the bold black Quartz ceiling tied the space together beautifully and added unexpected drama and don't forget the skirting and plaster cornices!
Stick to a Strong, Neutral Palette
Use contrasting neutral tones—like blond oak, deep espresso, and black—to create sophistication without overpowering the space. This palette feels modern, timeless, and allows natural materials to shine.
Mix Modern Lighting with Natural Textures
Incorporate sleek lighting fixtures (like vertical tube sconces) to contrast with organic surfaces. It creates a dynamic balance between refined and raw elements, adding energy and polish.
Layer Sculptural, Functional Furniture
Choose furniture and accessories that are as much about form as function. Look for clean lines, warm metallic finishes, and pieces that blend high-tech with craftsmanship—just like the curated elements in this room.
Image credit: Katia Perez Design
3. A Dream in Dusky Pin
In this enchanting bedroom designed by Alessandra Branca, interior designer and founder of the textile house Casa Branca, every inch is wrapped in her signature sense of warmth and wonder. Described by Branca herself as a "fantasy room... warm an escapist," this space is deeply welcoming, layered in soft dusky pink tones and ornate paisley motifs. The intricate pattern stretches seamlessly across the walls and ceiling, framed by a classic border stripe that adds a sense of rhythm and refinement. This same pattern play is echoed beautifully in the curtains, which carry the same richly detailed design and envelop a bespoke bed that feels both intimate and theatrical. It’s a room that cocoons you in elegance—richly textured, romantic, and completely transportive.
To achieve this look at home, think about;
- Go All In with Pattern: Don’t be afraid to use the same palette and cohesive patterns across walls, ceilings, and soft furnishings. Repeating a pattern—especially something intricate like paisley—creates a united, immersive environment that feels luxurious and curated.
- Choose a Soft, Romantic Palette: Stick to a warm and muted tone like dusky pink, peach, or faded terracotta. These hues feel timeless and calming, perfect for a restful retreat while still making a statement.
- Frame with Borders: Use decorative borders to define architectural details—corners, ceilings, or transitions between patterns. It brings structure and elegance to a maximalist scheme.
- Add Bespoke Touches: Incorporate one-of-a-kind elements like a custom headboard or tailored curtains in matching fabric. These personal details bring the space to life and give it a distinct designer feel!
Image Credit: Katia Perez Design
4. Charming Country Utility Space
In a playful nod to the traditional British country house, designer Emma Sims-Hilditch has created a dreamy multi-functional room that perfectly balances elegance and purpose. This carefully curated space blends a boot room, dog room, and utility area into one cohesive scheme—proving that practical doesn’t have to mean plain. With its fresh green cabinetry, vintage wooden furniture, and delightful details like a ribbed marble sink and heritage tiles, the room feels timeless, like it’s always belonged in the house. It’s a masterclass in layering classic English aesthetics with a contemporary confidence—rich with texture, colour, and craftsmanship.
To recreate this inviting and practical charm in the more functional corners of your country home, consider the following:
- Go Bold with Colour: Use rich, heritage-inspired shades like forest or olive green to bring warmth and identity to utilitarian spaces. A bold hue instantly elevates the room and makes it feel intentionally designed.
- Embrace Traditional Joinery: Panelled cabinetry and tongue-and-groove walls add depth and timeless structure. These architectural elements provide a sense of permanence and craftsmanship.
- Layer in Vintage Finds: Incorporate antique or vintage furniture—think old dressers, hooks, and benches. These pieces bring soul to the space and blend seamlessly with the period character of a country home.
- Choose Beautiful, Durable Materials: Opt for finishes that are both functional and refined—like marble sinks, brass fixtures, and heritage-style tiles. They’re made to last and add an understated luxury to daily routines.
- Add Whimsy Through Details: From patterned lamp shades to brass hardware and woven baskets, the small touches make a big impact. These are what transform a purely practical room into a place you’ll love spending time in
Image credit: Katia Perez Design
5. Art Deco Elegance
Never one to disappoint, Laura Hammett steps slightly outside her signature style to deliver a dazzling art-deco-inspired bathroom in collaboration with Samuel Heath. This space feels like a luxurious escape—an opulent sanctuary that balances drama with refinement. From the sculptural freestanding bathtub carved in marble to the crisp geometric floor tiles, every element is carefully chosen and perfectly executed. The decorative hand-blown glass chandelier adds a note of theatrical glamour, tying the room together in a statement of pure design sophistication. It’s a fresh take that feels both bold and timeless—showcasing Laura’s unwavering commitment to high-end craftsmanship and exquisite detail.
Take inspiration from this stunning bathroom and bring a touch of its indulgent magic into your own home with these five design cues:
- Go All In with Marble: From wall cladding to basins and bathtubs, marble is key to creating a sense of refined opulence. Opt for book-matched slabs or richly veined varieties to echo the sculptural feel of this design.
- Introduce Geometric Flooring: An art deco-inspired space calls for geometry. Choose statement-making floor tiles in bold, angular patterns to ground the space and add architectural rhythm.
- Invest in a Show-Stopping Light Fixture: A decorative chandelier—especially in hand-blown glass or with vintage flair—adds drama and elevates the entire room. It’s a signature move that blends function with high design.
- Embrace Streamlined Glamour: Think clean lines and sleek profiles for cabinetry, mirrors, and hardware. Brass, gold ,chrome or polished nickel finishes work beautifully to reflect light and enhance the deco mood.
- Curate with Intent: Decorative elements matter—opt for quality over quantity. Choose sculptural accessories, timeless glassware, or even a piece of art if space allows. These small, refined details bring personality and sophistication, turning the bathroom into a thoughtfully curated sanctuary.
Image Credit: Katia Perez Design
6.Effortless Sophistication
This modern living room by Kelly Hoppen is a masterclass in refined comfort. Staying true to her signature style, she avoids passing trends while subtly weaving in current design favourites—like richly veined warm-toned marbles and sculptural, organic shapes. These are cleverly balanced with timeless structured elements like the clean-lined sofa and artisan-inspired furniture details, including tactile fringing. Timber-clad walls anchor the space, adding warmth and cohesion, while glossy surfaces and elegant marbles create contrast and polish. Finishing touches, like the stunning lighting from Visual Comfort & Co., culminate the entire scheme. To recreate this harmonious yet luxurious atmosphere, consider these five design principles:
1. Use Warm, Veined Marble Thoughtfully: Move away from cool greys and embrace warm-toned, boldly veined marble on tables, plinths or accessories. It instantly adds richness and visual texture while keeping things modern.
2. Play with Contrasts in Materials: Balance warm timber wall cladding with sleek, glossy surfaces like lacquered panels or polished metals. The juxtaposition of matte and shine is what makes this room feel luxurious yet liveable.
3. Embrace Organic Shapes: Incorporate softly curved furniture—like a rounded armchair, oval coffee table or an organically shaped sculpture—to introduce a sense of flow and visual softness against the structured backdrop.
4. Add Craft-Inspired Details: Fringed edges, woven textures, or bespoke joinery nod to craftsmanship and bring a layer of soul to the space. Even a touch of fabric trim or a carved wooden detail can ground the design in warmth.
5. Illuminate with Statement Lighting: Lighting is key. Opt for sculptural or oversized fixtures that act as art pieces in themselves. Whether wall sconces or pendant lights, choose designs that reflect the rest of your palette and mood.
Image credit: Katia Perez Design
5. Golden Hour Dining
Step into this show-stopping dining room by Peter Mikic and you're instantly swept into its uplifting energy. Created in collaboration with paint specialist Benjamin Moore, the space is grounded by a hypnotic, hand-painted mural—an expressive backdrop that fills the room with colour, motion and mood. Floating above, a sculptural chandelier designed by Mikic and crafted by Cameron Design House steals the show, casting soft light across the setting like a modern work of art. Every detail feels celebratory, inviting you to pop a bottle of champagne and savour the moment in style.
To capture this kind of bold, joyful atmosphere in your own dining room, start with these key elements:
1. Make Walls Your Canvas: Ditch plain paint and go for something with emotion. A hand-painted mural or expressive wall treatment instantly sets the tone and adds unforgettable personality to the room.
2. Say Yes to Sculptural Lighting: A standout chandelier acts as both a light source and a visual centrepiece. Choose a piece with architectural form and presence—it’ll tie the room together with confidence.
3. Inject Vibrancy with Colour: Whether it’s through paint, upholstery or accessories, bold colour brings energy and depth. Don’t be afraid to layer tones—especially if you're working with a backdrop as dynamic as this one.
4. Mix Classic and Contemporary: Pair timeless furniture shapes with modern materials or finishes to keep the space fresh. Think clean-lined dining chairs next to a high-gloss table or tactile fabric against lacquered walls.
5. Create a Mood That Feels Worth Celebrating: From luxe tableware to ambient lighting, small details make a big difference. Layer candles, polished metals, or elegant glassware to enhance the experience—this room is about indulging, after all.
Image Credit: Katia Perez Design
Stay Tuned for More WOW!
The WOW!House 2025 exhibition was truly a feast for the senses—every room was a masterclass in creativity, craftsmanship, and design vision. I’ve only scratched the surface here, and there are so many more incredible spaces I’d love to share with you. From unexpected colour combinations to clever details and bespoke finishes, the inspiration is endless. I’ll be revealing more highlights, and more personal favourites over on our social media—so don’t forget to follow us and stay tuned! You won’t want to miss what’s coming next.