Considered interior design alongside statement architecture allows the views off the coast of Guernsey to take centre stage

Ann Marie Cousins, founder of AMC Design, was tasked with enhancing this stunning coastal property by adding warmth and style. Her goal was to celebrate its clean lines, architectural elements, and breathtaking views.

The Yorkshire-based interior designer, celebrated for her skillful blend of color, pattern, and texture, as well as her efficient use of space, was invited to Guernsey for a new project. By encouraging the homeowner—who had long dreamed of living by the sea—to embrace bold creative choices, she has helped him forge a vibrant new future in a place he can now proudly call home.

THE BRIEF

The property’s prime location is integral to its unique appeal, nestled along Guernsey’s iconic coastline with sweeping panoramic sea views. A discreet entrance crafted from textured reclaimed Guernsey granite complements the natural surroundings, leading into a 20-foot hallway that showcases modern architecture. The house is set within expansive gardens, offering uninterrupted vistas of the sea. Every living and bedroom space benefit from expansive windows offering views of the beautiful countryside and seascape, with beautiful light throughout the day, come rain or shine. This stunning, modern property spans an impressive 5000 sq ft but previously the imposing spaces felt cold, unwelcoming, with furnishings that felt unbalanced.

ACHIEVING THE BRIEF

The property had beautiful bones, but features like the polished concrete floors, the dominant concrete-clad pillar, and the sunken seating area in the downstairs living spaces lacked flow and energy. The client wanted a home that embraced the peace and tranquility of its location while also serving as a hub for family life and entertaining. Although the homeowner preferred neutral tones, during discussions with Ann Marie he was encouraged to be open to colour, leading to a scheme which stretched inky ocean hues to coppers, which created pockets of drama and energy in the restful setting.

Ann Marie and her team of experts redesigned the sitting room to accommodate a mix of functionality. Luxurious, oversized sofas filled with goose and duck feather fibres were positioned to face both out towards the gardens and coastline and in towards the cosy fire. For texture and rhythm, a stunning Luke Irwin area rug featuring watery blue colours and ripple effect pattern was chosen.  Cushions in warm rust tones complement the dominant classic blue and white palette, significantly enhancing the ambiance of the ground floor.. The light-filled space is now also home to a collection of decorative, modern objects including an array of artwork which is of high importance to the homeowner and a three-tiered lighting system to offer different mood settings.

The seating area was partitioned with custom double sided American walnut media unit/bookcase  which works to conceal a TV and provide storage into the dining space. Here, an extendable walnut dining table provides a versatile option for dining together and catering for larger gatherings with family and friends. The dining chairs were chosen to add shape, form, and a touch of softness. The space also benefits from a walnut bar cabinet and two statement chairs, placed thoughtfully to allow enjoyment of an aperitif while the sun sets.

Transforming the expansive, echoing entrance into a a warm and inviting hallway was essential. This area provided an opportunity to introduce eye-catching artwork and contemporary statement lighting. Adding punchy rust and teals introduced vibrancy to this generous hall, while changing the dimension of the space with clever design features such as adding commissioned artwork to the end wall and the sides, a plush navy velvet ottoman, console, and beautiful mirror to bounce the light around the hallway. At the heart of this transformation is the extraordinary Melt Chandelier by Tom Dixon, featuring organic, imperfect orbs .This statement piece  takes full advantage of the hall’s generous proportions, filling the space with a cluster of sculptures and creating a dramatic focal point in the centre of the house.

A home theatre offers a place to kick back, relax, watch movies and play games. This has been wrapped in earthy green hues with a green wool modular sofa, ivory bouclé footstool and textured wallcoverings to create a nature-inspired cocoon. It offers a cosy space in contast  to the other living areas which benefit from enormous amounts of natural light.

On the second floor, the bedrooms required modernising through decoration. Fresh colour schemes and a new mix of textures were chosen to infuse sophistication.

The master suite boasts breathtaking sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows, with far reaching views across to France. The bed is strategically positioned to enjoy the sea view, while the aperture in the wall behind it provided the perfect location for a striking sculpture, which is perfectly complement by custom headboard, luxurious bedding, and plump cushions. A free-standing bath sits proudly against a backdrop of lush treetop views for the ultimate spa-like experience.

A further three bedrooms have been given their own personality while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout.  Flashes of teal through the home have taken on a new harmonious palette in one bedroom, allowing a more feminine feel. A herringbone throw and a eucalyptus bedside table provides striking contrast against hot pink and subtle ivory. Artwork plays a key part in the bedroom spaces by adding interest and fostering creativity, self-expression, and cultural appreciation.

THE RESULTS

The design features a collection of modern classics that beautifully compliment the home’s clean lines, while luxurious finishes add an extra layer of elegance and charm. The home feels grand in finish and feel but is now a true reflection of its owner and primed for living in Guernsey’s most picturesque setting. More photos of this iconic Guernsey property can be seen in our gallery.