Stylish modern living room featuring a cozy sofa, wooden accents, and contemporary lighting, inviting relaxation and conversation.

Ten minutes with Winnie Tam from fourteen a.m.

We chat to Winnie Tam, the founder of interior design studio fourteen a.m., about creating a sanctuary in the city.

Ten minutes with Winnie Tam from fourteen a.m.
Wave Residence is a city dwelling with a difference.

Where noise, light and space are so often an issue for urban terraced properties, this home boasts rooms flooded with natural light and a tangible sense of calm.

We caught up with owner Winnie Tam to hear more about the project.

'My partner Dave and I both love and hate city living in equal measure. It offers a great deal of opportunities and enjoyment, but it can also bring about its fair share of stress,’ Winnie explains.

'Before the renovation, we were longing for a way to live in a pocket of calm in the heart of lively Islington.

‘Plenty of people living in cities, just like us, yearn for restorative spaces. So, I decided to use the project as a way of showcasing what a city sanctuary can be.'

A modern bathroom featuring a white sink, black faucet, round mirror, and a towel on a rack, with wooden paneling in the background.

A cozy table setting featuring a gray pitcher, two artisanal cups, and a round tray on a textured linen tablecloth.

A minimalist interior featuring a wooden column, a rustic pot on a pedestal, and a vase of dried flowers on a small table.

Winnie’s vision prioritised simplicity and the healing power of nature.

‘Typically, London homes divided into flats are narrow and dark – especially basement sorts – so it was my aim to address this and turn our property into one with plenty of outward views and natural light.

‘I wanted Wave Residence to be a place for slower living; a place for reflection; a place for appreciation. And nature and natural materials were key to that.

Today, clay plaster, terracotta tiles and jute rugs cover the walls and floors, while iroko timber has been used for joinery throughout the property.

Reconfiguring the layout and flow of the house took a lot of careful consideration and time, but the smaller details were just as important to Winnie.

A minimalist hallway featuring a wooden table, a black chair, and a chair with a plaid throw, all against soft, neutral-toned walls.

Rear view of a modernized home with a white extension and wooden doors, contrasting against traditional brick walls.

A minimalist hallway featuring a wooden slat partition, a black chair with a gray checkered blanket, and a neutral-colored wall.

'The overall look of the house isn’t at all showy, so every single small detail is important – I believe it’s where the essence of the design ethos is captured.

'And that's particularly true of essentials like switches and sockets.

'Putting a cheap plastic switch on the wall of a beautifully designed interior can really detract from the space. Wall art and other decorative touches can be easily added and updated, but without the right high-quality essentials, your interiors just won’t work properly.

'I discovered Corston at the Surface Design Show in London. I go every year looking for inspiration and suppliers. The simple elegance of Corston’s products aligns perfectly with my design philosophy.'

It was, above all, our Bronze finish that caught Winnie’s eye for its understated matt look.

A modern dining space with a round table set with minimalist plates and cups, illuminated by a stylish bamboo pendant light.

A minimal staircase with wooden railings and a softly lit wall, featuring natural textures and a warm color palette.

A cozy living space featuring a gray sofa, a woven pendant light, and a white window shade, with sunlight filtering through.

‘The tones I’ve used in the house are quite muted – and definitely not shiny – so that was crucial. The aesthetic of the Bronze finish felt pared back and sophisticated.

‘I love that the solid brass is such good quality, and the screwless assembly for the toggle switch front plates is so well-thought-out.

‘Ultimately, switches and sockets should shine through in a room – but in a subtle way. I want people to feel the need to look a little closer and really engage with the designs to truly appreciate the quality.’

Quick-fire round
The project in three words?
‘Sanctuary. City. Nature.’

Favourite room?
‘The Tea Room.’

Favourite Corston product?
‘Undoubtedly, the Bronze toggle switches.’

fourteen a.m., https://www.fourteen-am.com/
Photography: @edvinasbruzas https://edvinasbruzas.com/