AMERICAN BEAUTY

An old bungalow was taken down to make way for this USA-inspired, light-filled home - designer Gemma Hill reveals all

- VIVIENNE AYERS

HOW DID YOU COME TO BE INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT?

I was recommended by a previous client who is friends with the clients. They had found a plot with an old bungalow. They wanted to knock it down and build a new house. We became involved at the beginning, when they had the architect's plans but before they had planning permission, so we were able to advise on areas that we thought could be improved within the layout.

WHAT WAS THE BRIEF?

To create a family home that was going to be a long-term home. It had to be teen and pet friendly so involved use of stain-resistant fabrics. They wanted spaces for gathering friends and family together, which is why it was important to have an open-plan kitchen/living/dining area as they tend to be in the same space doing separate things at the same time. They wanted the aesthetic to have West Coast influences as they had lived in the States, and to have a neutral palette.

DESCRIBE THE HOMEOWNERS' STYLE