Location:
Ryde, Isle of Wight, was once known as “La Rye,” a small fishing village. During the 19th century, it underwent a significant transformation, becoming a popular seaside resort and the primary access point to the island. This growth was spurred by the arrival of Queen Victoria and the subsequent development of a pier and ferry service. Today much of Ryde is designated a conservation area in an attempt to preserve the rich heritage of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties.
Background:
One such restoration success story comes from Zac and Connor, who have lovingly transformed their Georgian home into a striking example of eclectic design, blending traditional charm with contemporary flair.
The Challenge:
Zac and Connor purchased their Georgian property in August 2021 - a home in desperate need of care and attention. “The house was in quite a sorry state,” says Zac. “But we knew it had potential, and we were determined to restore it to its former glory.”
Through their creative vision and appreciation for original features, the pair have turned their home into a vibrant and stylish space that pays tribute to its Georgian roots while embracing bold, modern design.
The Project Plan:
Embracing Period Details with Coving and Ceiling Roses. For Zac and Connor, reinstating period details was key to enhancing their home’s character. “We adore original features, and by adding gypsum plaster coving and ceiling roses, we’ve restored that sense of grandeur and craftsmanship that’s so often lost in period properties,” explains Connor.
To complement the home’s varied ceiling heights - ranging from 8 feet in smaller rooms to an impressive 14 feet in larger spaces - they selected coving and ceiling roses that suited each room’s proportions. “We love ornate plasterwork, so we tried to go as big as the space would allow,” says Zac. “For our ceiling roses, we chose the largest sizes possible to create a focal point, while ensuring there was still a good amount of space between the rose and the coving.”
Before & After:
The addition of coving and ceiling roses has brought a sense of taste and balance to their home. “The main bedroom is one of the most impactful rooms - we added two matching ceiling roses to complement the room’s long shape, allowing us to hang two pendant lights that feel beautifully proportional,” Zac explains.
The kitchen is another standout space. “We spend a lot of time here with friends and family, so we wanted something special to look at,” says Connor. “The ceiling rose frames our statement pendant perfectly, adding so much more impact to the space.”
The pair are also planning a striking dining room ceiling, which they describe as their most ornate project yet.
Zac and Connor’s interior style is a bold and captivating mix of influences - from Georgian and Victorian elegance to 1960s Palm Springs and Mediterranean touches. “We don’t follow trends - we just buy what we love, and it’s created a home that truly reflects who we are,” says Zac.
Their home is now a celebration of colour, pattern, and texture, brought together with a rock-and-roll edge and a bohemian twist.
Making Confident Choices with Coving Samples
The couple found our coving sample service particularly helpful in making their design decisions. “We ordered several designs in different sizes, and the samples we received were really generous chunks - far better than the tiny samples you sometimes get elsewhere,” says Connor. “Being able to see and feel the designs in person gave us confidence in our choices.”
A huge thank you to Zac and Connor for sharing their inspiring home transformation with us. For more of their vibrant interior style, visit their Instagram account @Lifeatcapri, where you’ll find plenty of maximalist inspiration.
Products used:
• 1930’s Floral Style Plaster Ceiling Rose 830mm Diameter LPR041
• Large Ornate Georgian Plaster Ceiling Rose 930mm Diameter LPR070
• Victorian Sunflower Plaster Ceiling Rose 750mm Diameter LPR026
• Ogee Egg and Dart Plaster Cornice 135MM Drop MPC080
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Our experienced drivers will make sure you get your plaster mouldings quickly and safely. For sales and general enquiries please call 0333 043 1471 or email service@shawfieldpark.co.uk.
