Pretty In Pink

Interior designer Natalia Miyar’s love of art and blush tones livens up her cosy abode in Battersea, London

- Hong Xinying

Any visitor to Natalia Miyar’s London abode will be immediately struck by the interior designer’s passion for art. A colourful array of paintings by Cuban artists holds court in her 1,800sqft apartment in Battersea, some of which were specially commissioned by Miyar; these works also reference the personal heritage of the Mexican-born, Cuban-American talent.

“I studied history of art and architecture at Brown University and was hoping to become a professor of art history, but then my love of architecture and interiors took over,” says Miyar candidly. “Art plays a huge part in my work. I like to have art around me; I have a growing collection and this is the first time I have showcased it properly in my home. The art selection is personal and a nice foil to the soft furnishings and materials.”

The two-bedroom apartment overlooks Battersea Park, and has a double-height living room and mezzanine that Miyar found architecturally intriguing; it’s also conveniently located across the river from her Chelsea studio. The neighborhood has recently witnessed a wave of urban rejuvenation projects, including the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station, which has transformed a vicinity once known for its industrial roots into a lively district.

“Everything I need is within a square mile, it’s like village life within the city,” she says. “I spend many of my weekends throughout the year in the park meeting friends, walking my dog, and enjoying the neighbourhood.”

AT FIRST BLUSH