“The final result was very similar to what I do in my ready-to-wear,” said Roksanda Illinci. “I think that's the beauty of it." The Serbian-born, London-based designer was speaking to Dezeen this week about her latest project, which has seen her turn her hand to interiors. The Central Saint Martins graduate, who launched her namesake label over a decade ago, has curated a luxury penthouse in the capital’s King’s Cross, her former neighbourhood, which not only reflects her love of stand out color blocking and sculptural shapes, but is a celebration of women makers.
With a rich industrial heritage, King’s Cross has been undergoing a renaissance in recent years, and what became disused wasteland is now being transformed into a new part of the capital. As part of this regeneration, three Grade II-listed cast iron gasholder guide frames, which were originally constructed in 1867, now house three residential buildings consisting of 145 apartments, and Roksanda has transformed one of the three bedroom duplex penthouses into a luxury living space.
Taking center stage is a dramatic geometric mural that hangs in the dining area. Featuring a palette of blush-pink, beige and navy blue, it was hand-painted by Swiss artist Caroline Denervaud, whose work can also be seen in the living room.
In the study, an ovular table by Charlotte Perriand provides the focal point, and a tan leather chair by Brazilian-Italian architect Lina Bo Bardi has been used to dress a cosy reading nook.
Lighting includes twisting ribbon lamps by Claire Norcross, as well as a spherical floor lamp by New York-based designer Eny Lee Parker.
In addition to the furnishings, art and ceramics, Roksanda has also curated a selection of her favorite books which line the shelves. These range from literature to artist retrospectives on Phyllida Barlow, Barbara Hepworth and Marlene Dumas, and include works by Patti Smith, Nell Dunn and Joan Didion.
“The Gasholders were an iconic landmark that always captured my attention and one which I found particularly beautiful,” said Roksanda of the project. “To be able revisit a neighborhood that felt so familiar to me and which now hosts the institution which moulded me as a designer, Central Saint Martins, felt like an exciting opportunity.”
