Located in the Westminster district of London, Regent's Park is one of the oldest royal parks in England. Just a short walk from this green reserve, in a quiet neighborhood with universities, buildings, and residences, stands the Regent's Park Townhouse. This historic building, dating back to 1822, is part of a classic English residential complex of 20 terraced houses, situated in the city's most restrictive preservation area.
Balancing the constraints imposed by strict regulations with the contemporary needs of the owners—a Brazilian-Israeli couple and their two children—Studio Arthur Casas undertook a meticulous process of assessments, consultations, and approvals to fully transform and adapt the space while preserving the architectural integrity of the house.
Divided between Brazil and England, the family includes two school-aged children, a technology executive father, and a mother who is an art curator and collector involved with museum boards. This unique background led the project to incorporate the extensive personal collection of the wife—featuring works by Judith Lauand, Jane Gravarol, and Rachel Baes—as a guiding theme, creating a challenge to harmonize architecture, furniture, and art that speaks for itself.
Among the imposed restrictions was the prohibition of altering the facade, including any internal modifications that would be visible through the windows and compromise the original appearance.
Additionally, changes to plaster details and ceiling moldings were not permitted. Therefore, the choice of neutral and off-white tones proved ideal, not only for respecting and harmonizing with these guidelines but also for creating a backdrop that highlights the artwork displayed on the walls—like a blank canvas, allowing for the collection's expansion. The preference for neutrality in the presence of predominant art extended to other discreet and minimalist finishes, including doors, electrical fittings, lighting fixtures, baseboards, and radiators.
This choice marked a clear contrast to the former owner's decor, characterized by dark tones and animal prints. Architectural program
The house is divided into two volumes: the main part and a rear annex, which previously served as a stable for horses. Respecting the original floor plan—a typical 19th-century typology that could not be altered—the selection and arrangement of furniture ensure fluid circulation and comfort
throughout the spaces.
Upon entering the hall, the prominent role of art is immediately apparent. From here, one can either ascend the half-level staircase or access the initial areas of the social spaces: the dining room, tea room, and kitchen + breakfast room.
To the right, the dining room features Flair’o chairs by B&B Italia paired with a natural oak wood table (the same wood as the floor) extending over 4 meters, designed specifically for the space by Arthur Casas. The Eros Ágape sideboard completes the setup, all illuminated by wall sconces and pendants
by Alexandre Logé. Above the fireplace, a black-and-white piece titled “Em cima da linha” by Anna Maria Maiolino is displayed.
Adjacent to the dining room is the Tea Room, characterized by pieces such as the Documenta Chair by Paolo Deganello for Vitra and the vintage Cimo sofa from Herança Cultural.
Finally, further in, the main kitchen was fitted with custom Italian cabinetry by Boffi, reflecting the family's love for gastronomy. The kitchen connects to the breakfast area, situated on a terrace with a glass roof remaining from the previous owner’s renovation. This space is bathed in natural light and offers an integrated view of the garden. The Eros Ágape table, accompanied by two Botolo chairs by
Arflex, is complemented by the Silent Cabinet by De Padova.
On the intermediate level between the ground floor and the first floor, the light natural oak wood flooring extends to envelop the custom cabinetry in the office, as well as the coat closet and the powder room, which feature Italian marble from Salvatori and fixtures from the Danish brand Vola.
The first floor accommodates the living area and media room, showcasing a strong presence of signature furniture. Embracing the concept of an art (and design) gallery, the furniture selection includes vintage La Cachette armchairs from Pamono, the Cubo sofa by Jorge Zalszupin, and the Bowl armchair by Lina Bo Bardi—each representing Brazilian design. In the media room, Brazilian
design is further emphasized with the MP43 Mirage armchair and ottoman by Percival Lafer. British artists such as Issy Wood, Mary Martin, and Grace Pailthorpe are prominently featured on the walls.
The two upper floors are dedicated to private spaces. The master suite occupies the second floor, while the third floor houses two bedrooms for the couple's children. The master suite features a leather-clad wardrobe that contrasts with the wall designs and the signed furniture, including the BIO-MBO bed by Patricia Urquiola for Cassina, dressed in Frette linens and accompanied by a J.J. armchair by B&B Italia. The couple’s bathroom includes fixtures from Vola and marble from Salvatori.
The residence also includes subterranean facilities with a staff kitchen, study room, and TV lounge.
The home’s automation system, including smart internet-connected devices, along with modernized central heating, underfloor heating, and air conditioning, completes the residence, blending tradition, art, and functionality.