The quality of the finish throughout Tom and Sally’s home is superb


away behind fuss-free surfaces and clean lines. “The kitchen is my most joyful space,” admits Sally. “We like entertaining and the kitchen just ‘works.’ It is very functional and well set up.” On the opposite wall to the kitchen, behind the large dining table, is a long section of walnut panelling, which hides a bespoke bar. Designed by Sally and Tom, Seamus Shanks, and Cat Dal, it was brought together by Martin, their carpenter. “Martin was an artist,” says Sally. “His attention to detail was extraordinary and he brought a lot to this bar in terms of its fine detailing.”


The family are fortunate they were able to continue living nearby in their previous home during the 10-month project. For Sally, the build was a race to completion before their youngest child, Jenny, arrived. As it happened, Jenny pipped the house at the post and the Marlow family moved in when she was just a month old. ow, with three children and busy careers, does their new home live up to expectations? “The house has improved our lives,” says Sally.


34 www.sbhonline.co.uk


“It’s wonderful to have the space. The children can be doing their homework on the island while I am cooking. We can all be together but doing our own thing. The garden is large enough for the children to play and m so ecited to finally have off-street parking, a utility room and an ensuite. I’ve been waiting for these ever since I moved to London twenty years ago!” Given their experience of such a complex build project has been so positive, is there anything Sally wishes they had done differently? “I had a real moment when I wondered if we should have dug a basement,” Sally confesses. “With hindsight, I would do this, as it would give the children – the older two heading towards the teenage zone – more space within our walls. Also, I would love a gym!” For now, the family have no plans to make any further renovations and they have settled into their new home enjoying the space, and light, as well as the charms of the more traditional rooms. “Sometimes,” says Sally, “I look around and think wow, we do have a beautiful home.”


SALLY & TOM’S ADVICE


“We spent ages on the plans, thinking about space. Get a good architect to push the boundaries. Get out of your comfort zone on interiors; Cat Dal pushed us to think about darker colours and I’m so pleased we did finishing touches make it a home.”


jul/aug 2023


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