Fiona Barratt's sophisticated Chelsea apartment is study of simple, modern glamour. Nothing too fancy or outrageous, just clean simple lines and profiles in neutral, calming shades of grey. Far from being dull, there is a sense of sophisticated drama with strong black accent pieces, black and white photography, and of course shiny silver metallics.

Fiona found this dramatic vintage squares mirror while travelling in Cuba. The effect of the mirror in this room is like a large, sparkling piece of jewellery to an outfit - it automatically seems a little bit glamorous. Throughout the room - the chromed lamps, beautiful silver vases and pewter pillows - all tie together the grey and silver theme.

Fiona adds a shot of colour with regal purple tones.

I love this dramatic black trio of Jonathan Adler-esque candle sticks - and how they are used to display little silver pots filled with greenery.

Fiona's own favourite piece in the apartment is her antique, black Asian dresser it creates a focal point. The use of strong black stops the space from becoming too feminine, I think it's this balance between both that makes the space so soothing.

A simple bed dressing with moody blue tones and dove grey accents to match the walls, all set against crisp white linens. The night table is a dramatic black but it's more delicate frame stops it from looking to heavy.

On the dressing table, an Ochre table lamp and vintage crystal perfume bottles.

In the kitchen, a more rustic vintage Japanese dining with matching dining chairs is set against dramatic art work and high above, a pair of crystal chandelier with heavy black shades. The result is absolutely stunning. I think it may be my favourite room in the house.

And of course, what could be better outside a chef's dream of a kitchen than to enjoy your morning coffee (tea for me) outside at the black cast iron bistro table. Or perhaps share an intimate dinner al fresco. The trio of topiaries is just perfect - at once formal, sophisticated and a little quirky.

A state of the art kitchen tops off an already idyllic urban retreat - a soothing sanctuary to come home to. Fiona believes "a good interior enhance, not dictates, the way we live"."This is very much my style," she says of the space, according to her own standards I guess she has accomplished the mission of any great design.

I love the light and warmth in this dining room. Light pours in through the large glass doors, igniting a glow from the bright woven rug and rich, honey coloured wood. The table base is actually made from a recycled pommel horse from the 1930s, the chandelier was crafted from recycled chrysanthemum guide wire. I love retro-fitted furniture, especially with results as beautiful as this table - improving upon something old, to make something new and beautiful. Now that's greener living at it's finest!


The rich heavy wood is a beautiful contrast to simple, recycled bottles and a delicate blossom.