Modern sink and angled mirror in bathroom with white wood panelling Sophie Solomon lives with her husband and 2 young children in a well preserved period house in a conservation area near Hackney in London an area frequented by artists, musicians and a broad mix of creative people . She is a professional musician and composer, a Russian speaker and an avid internet shopper who comes from an artisitic family who love interior decoration and design. The house, which belonged to a well known London chef did not need major work but the large kitchen/diner was refitted - new floors, doors to the garden and units and tiles were replaced to create a streamlined modern look. The couple like an eclectic mix of carefully chosen possessions against a pale background but with plenty of dark grey and black highlights to provide 'bite'. Its a great example of contemporary style that works for a dynamic young family.