Inside Harris Reed’s Fantastical London Home | Open Door | Architectural Digest

Introduction

In a captivating tour of his home, Harris Reed shares the journey of transforming a historical apartment in London into a vibrant sanctuary that showcases his creativity and love for unique design. The apartment, which he affectionately calls his "salon," combines a living space with a dining area, serving as the heart of the home.

A Rich History and Collaborative Design

Originally part of an impressive Manor block, the space was ripe with potential. Reed collaborated with his godfather, who runs Four Corners, and the talented team at Clementine Studios to bring his imaginative ideas to life. With contributions from his husband, the design process became an exciting and collaborative venture.

Every inch of the salon reflects Reed’s artistic flair, from the walls, which are intricately hand-embroidered, to the eclectic art collection featuring works from Chilean artists, paying homage to his husband’s heritage. The couple ensured that their history and identity were integral to the decor.

An Innovative Ceiling and Light Fixtures

One of the standout features is the stunning ceiling, inspired by Reed’s childhood in Arizona, where he often dreamt of creative possibilities while gazing upwards. The vintage 1950s Italian wall sconces, salvaged from an old cinema in Paris, add a dramatic flair, infusing the room with warmth and nostalgia.

The centerpiece of the salon is the fireplace from Renaissance London, which symbolizes Reed's vision of hosting gatherings filled with laughter and martinis. Surrounding it with plants adds a touch of life and charm.

A Luxurious Cocoon

Moving into the bedroom, Reed wanted a space that felt cocoon-like and nurturing. Working with Ferm Living, he created an enchanting atmosphere with hand-painted wallpaper decorated with embroidered elements, including swallows and bumblebees as nods to his husband's tattoo. The room’s pièce de résistance is a magnificent chandelier, which, at night, casts mesmerizing patterns across the room.

An interesting quirk of the apartment is the closet space—or rather the lack thereof. Reed's solution? A versatile pole system to store the couple's extensive wardrobes, proving that even in a small space, functionality can be delightful.

A Serene Bathroom Retreat

The bathroom is a marriage of French parlor charm and quirky English style, adorned with antique mirrors and velvet curtains. With a focus on creating a serene environment, Reed ensured that when he bathes, it’s a luxurious experience away from the hustle of daily life.

The Heart of the Home: The Kitchen

The kitchen brims with character, featuring original stainless-steel cabinets transformed into fun floating shelves. Each corner tells a story, adorned with diverse souvenirs from the couple’s travels.

One intriguing addition is the pot filler—an element dear to Reed ever since he saw it in Kendall Jenner’s Architectural Digest walkthrough. While Reed admits he doesn’t use it much for cooking, it opens up possibilities for creativity in the kitchen.

A Multi-Functional Media Room

The tour continues into the multifunctional media room that seamlessly becomes a library, office, and entertainment space. With innovative use of light and space, it adapts to the hosts' needs, boasting a cozy atmosphere filled with personal touches—like a signed photograph from Britney Spears, which Reed cherishes.

A Garden Oasis

Outside, what was once an uninviting swamp has transformed into a delightful garden oasis, complete with a fountain and cozy seating. Reed's creative vision extends beyond the walls, creating a sanctuary where friends gather, laughter echoes, and magical moments are made against the backdrop of twinkling lights.

Among the many features of the garden is an outdoor shower, which Reed has embraced, joking about how he hasn’t used the indoor shower in over a month. It encapsulates the freedom and joy that his home represents.

At the end of the tour, Reed joyfully expresses gratitude for the life he’s crafted with his husband—truly a quintessential queer dream realized.

Keywords

• Harris Reed
• London
• Home
• Interior Design
• Collaboration
• Personal Style
• Vintage Lighting
• Garden Oasis
• Multifunctional Spaces

FAQ

Q: What inspired Harris Reed's home design?
A: Reed's design is inspired by his childhood dreams and the history of the apartment, blending personal touches and collaborative efforts.

Q: What are some unique features of the apartment?
A: Notable features include a hand-embroidered wall, a vintage chandelier, a pot filler in the kitchen, and an outdoor shower.

Q: How did Reed incorporate his and his husband's backgrounds into the design?
A: Reed included artwork from Chilean artists and personalized decor that reflects their heritage and shared experiences.

Q: What atmosphere does Reed aim to create in his home?
A: Reed strives to create a safe, joyful, and welcoming space that feels like a personal sanctuary filled with love and friendship.