A 1920s London House Went from Gray and Gloomy to Bold and Brilliant

Apartment Therapy

by Adrienne Breaux

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A 1920s London house that was once gray and gloomy has been transformed into a bold and vibrant space designed to spark joy while maintaining a sense of calm. The family behind the project sought to create a home that would "spark dopamine and joy, but also feel incredibly calm," and they turned to talented designer Justine Guillermou to achieve this vision. By strategically using color and design, Guillermou successfully reimagined the house, turning it into a haven that balances energy with serenity. The transformation reflects the growing trend of blending vibrant aesthetics with mindful living spaces. The family’s desire for a space that feels both joyful and peaceful highlights the importance of emotional well-being in interior design. This approach emphasizes the role of color psychology, where bold hues are used to evoke positive emotions while maintaining an overall sense of calmness. This project also underscores the growing interest in sustainable and intentional living. By breathing new life into an older property, the family not only created a visually stunning home but also demonstrated how historic spaces can be adapted to meet modern design sensibilities. The use of color as a tool for

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Originally published on Apartment Therapy on 3/2/2026