Sir Paul Smith’s London home is a tranquil oasis, a stark contrast to his cluttered studio at company HQ. The designer’s studio, where he spent most of the lockdowns working on successive collections, is a treasure trove of books, periodicals, and cycling paraphernalia.
Behind him, a gallery wall features a Dame Laura Knight, a Cecil Beaton pen-and-ink drawing, and a sketch by Yves Saint Laurent. However, the camera soon reveals the elephant in the room: thousands of books and periodicals, piles of tchotchkes and toys, and enough cycling gear to furnish a museum.
Sir Paul proudly admits to owning 17 bikes, with 5 in the room and 12 next door. They have a cluttered state that is a far cry from the minimalist aesthetic of architects David Chipperfield and John Pawson, who have visited the studio without having “heart attacks.”
In contrast, Sir Paul’s mid-19th-century home in west London, which he shares with his wife Pauline, is a serene and peaceful space. The house, which has been their home for over 30 years, features an airy, light-filled studio and “fabulous proportions” with “glorious, huge” shuttered windows.
Sir Paul credits his wife with having an “artist’s appreciation of stillness, form, economy of line and composition,” which is reflected in the house’s decor. Pauline’s influence is evident in the classic-with-a-twist quality of the house, which features a mix of modern and classical pieces.
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The house has remained largely unchanged since they bought it, with the previous owners having spent a lot of money to restore it to its original state. Sir Paul and his wife have gradually personalized the space to their taste, avoiding the “super-duper” interior design that is prevalent in their neighborhood.
While the house may not scream “Paul Smith,” the designer’s hand is evident in the mix. He has a room that is a reflection of his love for collecting things, whether they have value or not.
It is situated in the midst of a city, but the house itself is calm.
Sir Paul’s home is also a space where he can express his love for setting design and other artistic pursuits.
