Tell us about yourself and your background.

I’ve been working in the decorative arts for around twelve years after studying Fine Art at Kingston University. I grew up in a very creative family; my father is a sculptor and my uncle also works in the decorative arts, so craftsmanship has always been part of my life.

Over the years I’ve specialised in traditional decorative finishes including gilding, marbling, wood graining and, more recently, hand-painted wallpapers and verre églomisé, which is the application of gold leaf to glass.

 

How did you become involved with 8 Northumberland Avenue?

My father had already completed sculptural commissions for the venue, so when the opportunity arose to restore The Parlour, it felt like a natural continuation of that relationship.

 

Where did the inspiration for the ceiling come from?

Initially, we explored the idea of a traditional blue daytime sky, often found in decorative interiors. I produced two sample boards: one featuring bright blue skies and another with a darker, more atmospheric palette.

The darker design immediately felt right. It complemented the grandeur of the building, enhanced the ornate Victorian mouldings and gave the impression that it had always belonged within the space.

 

 

Why did you choose genuine gold leaf instead of gold paint?

Nothing compares to genuine gold leaf.

The way it captures and reflects light creates a richness that paint simply cannot achieve. We used 23.5-carat gold leaf, carefully applied over an oil-based adhesive at precisely the right moment. It’s a meticulous process, but one that gives the mouldings a remarkable depth and luminosity.

 

What was the biggest challenge?

Painting a ceiling six metres above the floor.

Normally, I step back regularly to assess my work, but on this project I was working from the top of a tower. It meant constantly climbing down to view the mural from below before making adjustments to the composition.

 

What was your favourite part of the project?

The creative freedom.

It’s rare to work with a client who places such trust in your vision. Seeing the final layers of gold leaf catch the light against the painted sky was a defining moment. It was the point when everything came together.

 

What do you hope people experience when they enter The Parlour?

I hope they feel immersed in the character and elegance of the building.

The room should feel refined and intimate, a space where people can appreciate the craftsmanship while enjoying the atmosphere of one of London’s most historic venues.