A Heritage Space Reimagined
At Rugby School, a prestigious institution steeped in history, we were invited to redesign the Head Master’s main Drawing Room. The brief was clear: modernise the space to make it inspiring and welcoming, while carefully preserving the building’s architectural heritage.
Balancing tradition with a fresh, contemporary feel was at the heart of this project.
Existing drawing room
The Design Approach
Our approach focused on layering modern design elements into the existing framework of the room—enhancing rather than overpowering its original character.
We introduced a rich yet balanced colour palette of deep teals, soft greens, and warm metallic tones such as copper and gold. These hues brought warmth, depth and personality into the space, while remaining timeless and sympathetic to the building’s history.
Existing furniture was thoughtfully updated through reupholstery, paired with carefully selected new pieces—including a striking gilded glass coffee table and mirror—to create contrast against the room’s traditional dark wood features.
Bespoke Soft Furnishings
At the centre of the scheme were our handcrafted soft furnishings, made by our in-house team here at Curtains by Design in Rugby.
We designed and supplied:
- Bespoke curtains
- Roman blinds
- Coordinating cushions
Each piece was made using luxurious velvets and satins to introduce softness, warmth and understated elegance. To elevate the design further, we incorporated subtle pattern and texture in key areas, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Lighting & Practical Enhancements
To complement the updated interior, we introduced a more contemporary lighting scheme. Traditional fittings were replaced with a combination of wall lights, a statement pendant, and updated lamp shades—bringing a softer, more refined ambience to the room.
Functionality was equally important. We installed:
- High-quality, heavy-duty curtain and blind tracks for longevity
- Voile roller blinds to manage light levels and protect fabrics from sun exposure
With the room’s south-facing aspect, these solutions ensured both comfort and practicality for everyday use.
Finishing Touches: Walls & Colour
A carefully selected textured wallpaper in a light, warming tone was used throughout the main space, adding depth and a sense of quiet luxury.
To create a focal point, we introduced a feature wallpaper within the entrance alcove—an abstract floral design that immediately draws the eye and adds a layer of personality and drama.
Paintwork was chosen to harmonise with the fabrics and wall coverings, keeping the overall feel light and inviting, while darker tones were used to highlight architectural details such as the fireplace, skirting and picture rails.
Working with Trusted Suppliers
This project was a true collaboration with skilled local and industry-leading suppliers:
- John Reed and Sons – Expert reupholstery of sofas, chairs and ottoman
- Rugby Electrical – Supply of contemporary lighting
- Romo & Designers Guild – Luxury fabrics and design inspiration
- Villa Nova – Complementary soft furnishings and wallpapers
- Linwood & Colefax and Fowler – Durable, high-quality upholstery fabrics
By working closely with trusted partners, we ensured every detail met the highest standard.
The Finished Result
The completed Drawing Room is a perfect balance of past and present.
The refreshed colour palette, updated furnishings and layered textures have transformed the space into a warm, welcoming and inspiring environment for students, staff and visitors alike—while still honouring the building’s heritage.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re delighted to have been invited back to redesign the neighbouring Dining Room.
Key Takeaways
- Respecting heritage – Contemporary design can sit beautifully within traditional architecture when handled with care
- The power of colour – Thoughtful colour choices can completely transform the mood of a space
- Local collaboration matters – Working with skilled local craftsmen adds quality, character and community value
Thinking About Your Own Project?
Whether you’re updating a single room or transforming an entire property, our team specialises in creating bespoke soft furnishings that bring your vision to life—beautifully and thoughtfully.