Inside Mark and Zoe’s Striking Bow Quarter Renovation
Breathing new life into a historic property is always a delicate balance of preserving character while creating a home that feels personal and functional. For Mark and Zoe, transforming their mezzanine apartment in East London’s Bow Quarter was a dream project, but one they knew would require expert guidance to bring to fruition. Collaborating with Beams, they set out to reimagine their space with a focus on simplicity, practicality, and timeless style—resulting in a modern home that celebrates its industrial roots.
The couple’s mezzanine apartment, part of the iconic Bow Quarter complex, was ripe for reinvention. Mark and Zoe envisioned a transformation that would honour the building’s heritage while embracing a sleek, modern aesthetic. They partnered with Beams to breathe new life into their home, with a focus on creating an open-plan living area that would feel both expansive and inviting.
A Vision for Space and Light
The project began with Mark’s desire to replace his cramped, enclosed kitchen with a light-filled, open-concept design that would serve as the heart of the home. Removing the dividing wall was a top priority, and the Beams team, in close collaboration with a structural engineer, ensured the alteration would not only be structurally sound but would also respect the historic fabric of the building.
Mark’s determination to expedite the renovation meant careful planning was essential. Beams’ Planning Team worked tirelessly to map out milestones and ensure deadlines were met, allowing the project to flow smoothly from conception to completion.
The result? A kitchen and living area that feels airy, connected, and thoughtfully proportioned—perfect for hosting, cooking, or simply unwinding after a busy day.
Designing a Modern Classic
At the heart of the renovation was Beams’ Head of Design, Simon Ribchester, who led the charge in crafting a space that blended modern elegance with timeless details. Simon worked closely with Mark and Zoe to refine their vision, helping them select a palette and materials that would elevate the apartment’s interior while maintaining a cohesive flow.
The couple opted for rich, dark walnut cabinetry—a bold choice that instantly became a focal point in the design. To balance this, Domus white tiles were selected for the backsplash, offering a crisp contrast. Brushed chrome handles added a subtle, sophisticated sheen, creating a harmonious interplay of textures.
Lighting, too, played a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere. Layered accent lighting was strategically placed to enhance the ambiance, adding warmth and depth to the space. From under-cabinet lights that softly illuminated work surfaces to statement fixtures, every detail was meticulously considered to amplify the apartment’s sense of luxury.
To unify the interiors, herringbone flooring was installed throughout. This timeless design choice not only connected the various living spaces but also added a tactile richness that complements the apartment’s industrial origins.
Visualizing the Dream
Mark and Zoe found it invaluable to see their new space brought to life before a single hammer was swung. Beams’ use of advanced 3D modeling allowed them to fully envision the transformation, experimenting with layout options and ensuring that every aspect of the design met their needs. For Mark, who had a clear sense of how the space should function, this technology was a game-changer, providing clarity and confidence throughout the process.
Expert Craftsmanship
The execution of this vision required skill, precision, and an eye for detail, which is why Beams paired the couple with Rumen, a contractor with over 18 years of experience in high-end residential projects. Known for his mastery of bespoke joinery, Rumen and his team were instrumental in bringing the design to life, crafting custom cabinetry and woodwork elements that perfectly fit the space.
Rumen’s expertise ensured that every element of the project—from the flawless installation of walnut cabinetry to the seamless integration of lighting—was executed to the highest standard. His team’s commitment to excellence was reflected in every detail, earning high praise from Mark and Zoe.
A Home Transformed
The result of this collaboration is a home that feels both contemporary and characterful—a space where historic charm and modern sophistication coexist effortlessly. For Mark and Zoe, the completed renovation exceeded all expectations.
“The end product was excellent. I’m not sure that we could ever have managed this project without Beams’ help,” Mark reflects.
