Gergei Erdei, a Hungarian-born artist and designer, has transformed his 50 square meter apartment in an 18th-century Georgian building in Bloomsbury, London, into a visually stunning space reminiscent of a lavish period drama. He aimed to create a cinematic experience, describing it as akin to a decadent second home.
The apartment features high ceilings, large windows, open fireplaces, and elaborate stucco work. Benedetti Architects modernized the space while respecting its historical features, adding built-in furniture and integrated lighting. The layout includes a spacious entrance hall, a galley kitchen, and an open-plan sitting, dining, and working area. Erdei primarily changed the wall colors to create depth, using Farrow & Ball's “Bancha” and “Mahogany” shades.
Erdei's interior design incorporates a mix of antiques, vintage pieces, and his own creations for Porta Romana, such as the sculptural ‘Teatro’ console and ‘Pilaro’ side table. He focused on light-reflective materials like brass and glass to create an airy atmosphere while using warm white upholstery to balance heavier elements. Chinese-inspired pieces nod to the designs of David Hicks and Billy Baldwin, and he uses unique furnishings, like palm chairs he painted gold and Italian burlwood pieces, to add character.
His approach to decoration is centered around the effect rather than the value of items.
Erdei sees furniture and decor as part of an ensemble, working together harmoniously. His DIY methods include giving Ikea cabinets a faux-marble finish and using large artwork to conceal electronics. He has sourced items from auctions, flea markets, and galleries, modifying them to create a cohesive aesthetic.
Erdei's apartment embodies his belief that small spaces can be rich and layered rather than minimal. He states, "In a tiny room, every piece has to work harder, but I don’t think small spaces should be minimal either. They can feel rich and layered; they just need to be more carefully composed." The blend of Asian elements, such as Japanese art and gold-lacquered furniture, with 1970s glam creates a vibrant and inviting atmosphere throughout the apartment.
