Transformed Family Home in Shropshire

Transformed Family Home in Shropshire

by | Jul 23, 2026

Living room design

The Starting Point

When my clients first got in touch, they had already lived in their Newport home for eight years. They loved its location and generous proportions but struggled to create a cohesive style that reflected them.

The living room felt awkward and disconnected. One side of the room was rarely used, and the layout didn’t support relaxed family living.

They also shared a love of Scandinavian and Japanese design. They wanted their home to feel calm, grounded and restorative, with a palette inspired by nature and an emphasis on natural materials.

Before image of a living room

Before

Although generous in size, the living room never fulfilled its potential. An awkwardly positioned doorway divided the room, making it feel disconnected and difficult to use. The family had arranged the furniture around the room’s limitations instead of their lifestyle. As a result, half of the room was rarely used. Our challenge was to improve the flow, reconnect the space and create a welcoming room the whole family would enjoy spending time in.

Custom made plywood shelf unit

Shaping The Design

Our conversations kept returning to the same ideas: a love of nature and open spaces, as well as the energy of city life. They also wanted their home to feel like a sanctuary. Somewhere they could retreat after a busy day, shut out the outside world and simply enjoy being together.

In the living room, a series of thoughtful changes has transformed both the look and function of the space. The original doorway divided the long, narrow room in two. It disrupted the flow and discouraged the family from using the whole room. We replaced it with a glazed sliding door. Natural light now spills into the previously dark hallway, while improved sightlines make the room feel wider and more open.

Bespoke joinery has rebalanced the room’s proportions and provided generous storage and display space for books and treasured objects. We also created a cosy window seat, which has quickly become a favourite place to sit. A carefully planned furniture layout, layered with tactile rugs, cushions and natural textures, has brought the two halves of the room back together. The space now feels cohesive, welcoming and made for family life.

Finally, a layered lighting scheme has brought warmth to the darker corners. It replaced the flat, functional atmosphere with a softer mood that shifts effortlessly from bright daytime living to cosy evenings.

The transformation

In the kitchen diner, we chose to build on what was already there rather than start from scratch. We repainted the existing cabinetry in a rich green and elevated it with tactile tiles, new hardware and carefully chosen lighting. By retaining the kitchen itself, we invested more of the budget in the features that would make the biggest difference to everyday family life.

A bespoke bench seat now anchors the dining area, adding both character and practicality. It’s become the natural place for weekday breakfasts, homework, coffee with friends and leisurely weekend lunches. A reimagined lighting scheme has added warmth and atmosphere. Together, these thoughtful changes have created a space that feels welcoming from morning through to evening.

Before

Before the redesign, the kitchen felt practical but lacked warmth and cohesion. A large freestanding table dominated the dining area. It offered little flexibility and no additional storage. Everyday items accumulated on the worktops, while the off-centre pendant light failed to define the dining space.

We focused on making every inch work harder. Bespoke bench seating has introduced hidden storage, maximised seating around the table and created a natural focal point. New lighting, carefully chosen artwork and a restrained palette of natural materials have transformed the atmosphere. The space now feels calmer, welcoming and more connected to the kitchen.

Continuity & Flow

Throughout the home, colour has created a quiet sense of continuity between the living room and kitchen. Soft, nature-inspired tones flow from one space to the next. Layers of timber, linen, ceramics and natural textures have added warmth and depth. The result is a calm, uncluttered interior with plenty of personality. It balances the simplicity of Japanese design with the warmth and liveability of Scandinavian interiors.

A New Chapter

By rethinking the layout, improving the flow and introducing a carefully considered lighting scheme, we transformed the ground floor into a home that works effortlessly for modern family life.

We wove subtle references to the couple’s different heritages into the materials, finishes and patterns. Nothing feels literal or overly themed. Instead, thoughtful details give the home greater depth and personal meaning. Integrated storage keeps everyday life organised, reduces clutter and makes the house easier to live in.

Most importantly, the house now feels unmistakably theirs. Each room has a purpose and every detail has been carefully considered. It reflects who they are and how they want to live. It’s calmer, more practical, more beautiful—and, above all, it feels like home.

Photography by Daniel Wright Photography

Client Words

“We worked with Kate on the redesign of our kitchen-diner and living room and the transformation has really changed how much we love and use these spaces. From the beginning she really took the time to understand how we live and what we were drawn to stylistically, then translated that into a scheme that feels calm, cohesive and completely ours. She combines creativity with practicality and clearly cares deeply about both the design and the people she works with.“


Malla, Newport

Victorian House, Near Ironbridge

Victorian House, Near Ironbridge

by | Jul 4, 2023

About the project

When this couple contacted me they were partway through a five-year renovation and, due to their very busy schedules and, by their own admission, a lack of creativity and vision, they were struggling to update the tired hallway and first floor rooms.

Part of my role was in helping them to define their unique style, encouraging them to be bolder with colour and working with them to manage their project.

Although the house is large, it wasn’t being used to its full potential and lacked effective storage. We reconfigured some of the rooms, added custom built cupboards, lightened the dated colour palette and introduced panelling in the hallway to add depth and character. My clients now have a very beautiful home that they are, quite rightly very proud of.

Client Review

“We approached Kate to help us with the reconfiguration of two bathrooms and the master bedroom as well as designing our downstairs hall, stairs and landing. As time went on she has produced mood boards for most of our house and has helped transform our rather tired mid Victorian house into a restful but fun home. She encouraged us to be brave with colour and we are so pleased with the results.”

Soft-toned Victorian hallway with muted sage green painted trim and doorways, neutral walls, and a glimpse into a traditional room with a mahogany console table, offering understated period charm and subtle colour detailing
Close-up of a sleek black and white contemporary chandelier in a Victorian hallway with mauve-painted walls, a blue window blind, vintage framed artwork, and a view into a traditional bathroom, beautifully merging old and new design details.
Airy and inviting living room featuring bold red and cream patterned sofas, soft grey walls, classic sash windows, vintage wood furniture, and a chunky blue throw, combining historic charm with cosy, characterful fabrics.
Soft and serene bedroom corner with cream walls, two modern armchairs with light upholstery, a black side table, botanical curtains, and a striking sculptural wooden ceiling light, blending calm neutrals with textural interest for a restful reading nook
Elegant Victorian dining room featuring warm pink-toned walls, an ornate white fireplace with floral arrangements, polished mahogany dining table and chairs, brass chandeliers, and vintage glass display cabinets, creating a timeless, sophisticated entertaining space.
Close-up of vintage-inspired glass pendant lights hanging over a Victorian staircase, with a patterned red, cream, and green Roman blind in the background, highlighting thoughtful, decorative lighting choices in a period home.
Victorian stair landing with crisp white balustrade, exposed dark ceiling beam, cascading glass pendant lights, and an intricately carved antique wooden chair, blending dramatic architectural features with delicate detailing.
Bright Victorian home landing with soft pale green woodwork, panelled doors, period wall sconces, and an ornate carved wooden chair, offering a fresh take on traditional English interior detailing.
Airy Victorian landing with soft green-painted woodwork, exposed timber beam, decorative glass pendant lights over the stairwell, and a view into a bright entryway, combining classic period features with light modern decor.
Close-up of Victorian-style clawfoot bathtub with polished chrome shower fittings and handheld mixer tap, set against a modern glass walk-in shower and soft green wall panelling, creating a blend of heritage and contemporary bathroom design.
Elegant Victorian-inspired bathroom featuring a classic clawfoot freestanding bathtub with chrome fixtures, dark wood flooring, a curved sage-green vanity unit, and exposed timber beams, blending timeless charm with modern luxury.
Spacious Victorian master bedroom with exposed wooden ceiling beam, bespoke built-in wardrobes with woven rattan panels, deep blue velvet bedspread, modern statement lighting, and a reading nook with floral curtains and patterned floor lamp, showcasing elegant English design.
Cosy master bedroom detail showing a bedside table with stacked books and a black ceramic lamp, alongside a wooden sleigh bed dressed with deep blue cushions and a leopard-print accent pillow, creating a rich, layered interior look.
Stylish master bedroom tray detail featuring a wooden serving tray with a white plant pot and candle, set on a wooden chest at the foot of a bed with deep blue velvet bedding and a sleigh-style wooden headboard, adding layered textures to the room.
Close-up of a pleated blue and white patterned lampshade, adding playful texture and contrast to a traditionally styled bedroom space
Close-up of a textured beige patterned cushion on a modern black armchair, with soft-focus leafy curtains and a potted plant, styled by Kate Parslow Interiors in a Victorian house near Ironbridge
Spacious bespoke shaker-style wardrobes with mirrored panels and soft white finishes in a Victorian home’s bathroom dressing area, designed by Kate Parslow Interiors near Ironbridge, Shropshire
Elegant bathroom featuring a dark blue double vanity with twin vessel sinks, botanical wallpaper, chrome fixtures, and a vintage-style rug, designed by Kate Parslow Interiors near Ironbridge, Shropshire
Bright family bathroom featuring a freestanding bathtub, dark blue double vanity, botanical wallpaper, walk-in shower, and natural wood flooring, designed to balance luxury and comfort

Before

Before photo of a traditional bedroom in a Victorian house near Ironbridge, with floral curtains, cane chair, and wooden furniture, captured before the design update led by Kate Parslow to introduce bolder colours and improve layout
Before image of a Victorian hallway near Ironbridge, showing red carpet, white walls, and dark wood furniture, photographed before redecoration and layout improvement, by Kate Parslow
Before photo of a dated family bathroom in a Victorian property near Ironbridge, with green carpet, half-tiled walls, freestanding vanity, and wicker drawer unit, part of a home transformation project by Kate Parslow
Before image of a large bathroom in a Victorian house near Ironbridge, featuring purple tiled walls, beige carpet, and traditional vanity unit, photographed prior to renovation and reconfiguration by interior designer Kate Parslow
Before photo of a Victorian bedroom near Ironbridge, featuring a wooden sleigh bed with white and red cushions, matching wooden bedside tables, and a warm neutral wall colour, taken ahead of interior redesign by Kate Parslow
Modern Detached Home, Bomere Heath

Modern Detached Home, Bomere Heath

by | Jul 4, 2023

About the project

Having bought the house from new when their children were small, my clients felt an update was long overdue. Working with furniture they already owned whilst trying to create a completely new atmosphere was the challenge.

The hallway and landing, which had previously felt dark and old fashioned were transformed into a welcoming space with a touch of wow! With their daughter’s now young adults they wanted to update their rooms to reflect this and inject some glamour into their own bedroom, which was lacking character.

In the lounge and working with their existing three-piece suite, the space was given an injection of ski lodge chic with a wraparound wallpaper and lots of contrasting textures. Turning it from a room that was rarely used to a cosy and relaxing family space.

Client Review

“Kate, has made a massive difference to our home, giving us confidence to make changes with her fantastic vision. We love the changes and she has made the process easy with her guidance and patience.”

Contemporary living room with beige leather sofas, a striking colourful gorilla artwork, a black coffee table with books and sculpture, and layered cushions creating a cosy yet edgy atmosphere in a modern UK family home.
Elegant bedroom with tufted headboard, navy velvet bedding, mirrored bedside tables, and a plush cream accent chair, combining luxurious textures and deep blue accents for a modern yet classic look in a Shropshire detached home
Close-up of a patterned armchair with black frame and colourful ikat-style upholstery, set against a dramatic black geometric feature wall, with blurred foreground details adding depth and style to the modern hallway design
Bright upstairs landing with crisp white bannisters, dark accent walls, a bold abstract face artwork, and a black console table topped with a red sculptural lamp and fresh white tulips, creating a vibrant and artful hallway moment.
Cosy bedroom detail with wooden sleigh bed, red and white patterned cushions, soft green velvet accent pillow, and a modern white table lamp with a black vase of fresh tulips on a stacked-book bedside table
Elegant mirrored bedside table with metallic lamp base, silver-patterned vase holding white roses and greenery, and a small ceramic accessory, styled beside a crisp white bed
Close-up of a chic bedroom styled with a white metal bed, mix of geometric and velvet cushions, textured burnt orange round pillow, and a white ladder bookshelf with plants and books, set against a blush pink wall
Bright bedroom scene with a brass and white metal bed dressed in striped and geometric cushions, paired with a light wood writing desk, burnt orange velvet chair, gold desk lamp, and patterned rug for a balanced, modern look
Corner statement chair with ornate black wood frame and bold multicoloured patterned upholstery, set against a striking black geometric painted wall in a modern detached Shropshire home.
Stylish modern fireplace surrounded by large grey stone tiles, with a glowing fire feature, dark wooden floors, lush green plants, and a glossy black sideboard with orchids, adding drama and warmth to the living space

Before

Before image of a lounge fireplace in a detached home in Bomere Heath, featuring a granite hearth, oak mantel, and brass fire insert, photographed prior to a texture-rich redesign led by Kate Parslow.
Before photo of a traditional carved wood accent chair with beige upholstery, in a detached home in Bomere Heath, later reupholstered in a dark patterned fabric as part of the redesign by interior designer Kate Parslow
Before photo of a dark and traditional landing in a modern home in Bomere Heath, with wooden staircase and framed family photos, photographed before being transformed into a brighter, more stylish space by Kate Parslow
Before image of an upstairs hallway in a modern detached home in Bomere Heath, showing neutral walls, beige carpet, and a traditional accent chair, taken ahead of redesign by Kate Parslow.
Before photo of a living room in a detached home in Bomere Heath, featuring cream leather sofas, wooden flooring, a shaggy rug, and a bay window with venetian blinds, captured ahead of a warm and texture-rich redesign by interior designer Kate Parslow
Before photo of a teenage girl’s bedroom in a modern detached home in Bomere Heath, with a white metal bed, pink accent wall, and personal touches including sports framed running photo, taken prior to a style update by interior designer Kate Parslow.
Before photo of a master bedroom in a modern detached home in Bomere Heath, with a cream tufted bed, mirrored bedside tables, and minimal styling, photographed ahead of an interior refresh to add glamour and character by Kate Parslow
Georgian House, Shrewsbury Centre

Georgian House, Shrewsbury Centre

by | Jul 4, 2023

About the project

This project was a true collaboration. Listening to their needs for a family-friendly home that was also great for entertaining, the brief was to introduce a contemporary edge whilst retaining the period charm of this amazing, listed building.

This couple had some really clear ideas about what they liked but were nervous about how to pull everything together in such a big space and wanted my help to translate their thoughts into a cohesive design.

The challenge was to link each space whilst at the same time giving each its own character and purpose – including the very glamorous grown up games room with its art deco vibe.

Client Review

“Kate was genuinely passionate about the renovation of our Georgian home and took great care to understand our tastes and how we planned to use each room. She took detailed information on what we had in mind, used that as a starting point but elevated our thoughts into stunning, stylish and carefully thought through mood boards. She understood precisely what we wanted to achieve but lacked the skills to do alone.”

Elegant seating area in a Georgian house in Shrewsbury Centre, featuring deep blue velvet banquette seating, gold-framed marble tables, statement wall sconces, and a patterned ceiling detail.
Statement entryway with floor-to-ceiling blue panelled cabinetry, gold handles, geometric pendant light, and black-and-white checkered flooring.
Relaxed lounge corner featuring a soft grey sofa with textured cushions, large round mirror, indoor greenery, and minimalist built-in shelving for a calm, inviting atmosphere
Close-up of brass wall sconce and soft-patterned Roman blind against dark panelled walls, highlighting subtle textures and moody, elegant finishes.
View into a stylish living space with a dark-blue painted brick fireplace, deep blue velvet armchairs, a round black coffee table, and black-and-white checkered floor tiles, framed by moody wood panelling and soft patterned wallpaper.
Sophisticated sitting area with black-painted brick fireplace, two deep blue velvet armchairs, a round black coffee table, and neatly stacked firewood, set against a checkered tile floor.
Elegant hallway with a crystal chandelier above a sculptural black table and vase of fresh flowers, leading to a curved staircase with a neutral stair runner and black-painted trim.

Before

Before image of the entrance hall in a Georgian listed home in Shrewsbury, showing blue carpeted staircase, patterned wallpaper, and dated furnishings, photographed ahead of renovation by interior designer Kate Parslow
Before photo of a Georgian dining room with original geometric tiled floor, dated fireplace, and simple wooden furniture, part of a listed property in Shrewsbury, prior to redesign by Kate Parslow
Before image of a traditional living room in a Georgian house in Shrewsbury, featuring brown leather sofas, heavy floral curtains and beige walls, prior to contemporary redesign by interior designer Kate Parslow
Edwardian Family Home, Church Stretton

Edwardian Family Home, Church Stretton

by | Jul 4, 2023

About the project

My clients had just relocated to Shropshire when I first met them. Their beautiful Edwardian house had previously been a much loved but very traditional home that didn’t suit their desire for a relaxed, fun and practical space to bring up their two young children.

The brief was to introduce colour and warmth to each of the rooms whilst retaining the period charm. Better use was made of the large but awkward-shaped living room. The kitchen and utility were given a complete update. Whilst the dining room/office was turned into a grown up retreat for work and entertaining. We’re now working together on the first floor bedrooms and bathrooms, which will be finished later this year.

Elegant dining room with a large rustic wooden table, textured table runner, wood dining chairs, glass bubble chandelier, and a bay window framing views of the surrounding countryside.
Close-up of a wooden table lamp with navy chevron shade, positioned between a burnt orange velvet sofa and a teal velvet sofa, with a white fireplace and built-in shelves softly blurred in the background.
Living room styled with white built-in shelving, decorative books and artwork, indoor plants, a white fireplace, and soft sage green walls for a fresh, modern feel.
Cosy living room corner with an organic-shaped wall mirror, wicker table lamp with a blue patterned shade, brass side table, and soft green painted walls.
Inviting lounge area with a deep teal velvet sofa, layered patterned and neutral cushions, a brass side table with wicker lamp, and soft neutral curtains framing the room.
Elegant living space with mustard armchairs, a statement chandelier, textured white built-in shelving, sculptural decor, and soft green accent walls for a warm, modern classic look.
Cosy living room featuring a wooden table lamp with a navy zigzag shade, colourful velvet cushions on burnt orange and teal sofas, with two mustard armchairs and white built-in shelving softly blurred in the background.
Close-up of coral tulips in a ribbed glass vase, styled on a gold tray with a lit white candle, set on a rustic dining table with dark floral wallpaper in the background.
Detail of a coral velvet armchair next to a mid-century wood and glass cabinet filled with glassware, set against dramatic dark floral wallpaper and topped with a modern gold and glass table lamp, adding a touch of vintage elegance.
Sunlit kitchen sink area with white marble worktops, a farmhouse sink, daffodils on the windowsill, vintage green kitchen scales, and rustic touches, blending old and new with a fresh, homely style.
Charming detail of a vintage navy-blue range cooker beneath a playful weather clock, set against delicate scalloped white tiles, with striped linen towels adding a touch of everyday countryside elegance.
Bright Edwardian kitchen with elegant grey shaker cabinets, herringbone wood flooring, a classic white butler sink, and a central table draped in a soft white cloth, styled with fresh yellow flowers and lemons, blending timeless country charm with modern living.
Edwardian kitchen scene with a white-covered table showcasing a glass vase of fresh yellow and white flowers beside a rustic wooden bowl of lemons, set against elegant grey cabinetry and a traditional navy Aga oven in the background.
Vibrant Edwardian cloakroom featuring striking coral and gold animal-and-floral print wallpaper, a classic white toilet with a black seat, and a window ledge adorned with fresh green houseplants, creating a lively, characterful small space.
Cosy Edwardian home mudroom corner with a deep blue built-in bench, a red patterned cushion, and decorative brass hardware, set against soft neutral walls and patterned tile flooring, creating a welcoming, practical space.
Edwardian home hallway featuring a brass wall light with a navy and white zigzag shade, positioned beside a period glass-panelled door and a vintage servant bell system on the wall, blending heritage details with playful modern accents.

Before

Before photo of a corner kitchen space in an Edwardian home in Church Stretton, with white appliances, oak cabinets, and ceramic tile floor, captured before complete kitchen redesign by interior designer Kate Parslow.
Before image showing Edwardian lounge with large windows, red leather seating, cream carpet and chandelier, in a family home in Church Stretton, photographed before Kate Parslow’s reconfiguration to improve flow and functionality
Before photo of a spacious Edwardian living room in Church Stretton, with red leather sofas, cream carpet, and traditional chandelier lighting, taken before layout improvements and design refresh by Kate Parslow
Before image of a bay-fronted living space in an Edwardian family home in Church Stretton, with coral painted walls, cream carpet, and moving boxes, photographed ahead of redesign to create a more practical, family-friendly interior by Kate Parslow
Before photo of a dated Edwardian kitchen in Church Stretton, with yellow walls, oak cabinets, and tiled flooring, captured prior to full modernisation by interior designer Kate Parslow