Want To Master The Earthy Interiors Look? Check Out This Riverside Apartment

When it comes to 2025 design trends, earthy colour palettes are predicted to go viral – and if you’re looking for some interiors inspiration, we’re loving the show apartment at One Thames Quay, a sparkling new development in Canary Wharf. Alice Grimes, senior director of B corp interior design firm BoxNine7, tells us all about her vision for the space (and how she sourced some stellar sustainable furniture).

Earthy Interiors With The Environment In Mind: Inside The Show Apartment At One Thames Quay

Can you tell us a bit about One Thames Quay?

Overlooking the vibrant emerging neighbourhood of Wood Wharf, the 48-storey One Thames Quay is the latest development by Chalegrove Properties Ltd. Each of the 263 apartments has been carefully considered to maximise views of the London skyline and river, and to ensure privacy and seclusion from neighbouring balconies. Residents also enjoy access to an impressive suite of lifestyle facilities including a two roof terraces, children’s play area, a private bowling alley and a 46th-floor sky gym and lounge.

What’s the background and story for the project?
The two-bedroom show apartment was designed to embody a refined urban lifestyle with a thoughtful approach to environmental responsibility. Our aim was to create a home that celebrates contemporary city living while championing sustainable practices, appealing to young professionals and couples drawn to Canary Wharf’s dynamic energy.

What was the client brief?
The brief was clear: design a space that feels effortlessly modern and stylish, with sustainability woven into its fabric. It needed to appeal to residents seeking both functionality and character, using innovative materials to create a seamless blend of ethical design and practical luxury.

Tom Allport

Talk to us about your early inspirations on the project. Did you pull together a moodboard?
Absolutely. Our initial inspirations came from London’s iconic riverside views and the interplay of natural elements with industrial textures. The moodboard juxtaposed recycled textiles and vintage finds with sleek, modern lines. This fusion of history and innovation guided us to create a space that feels personal and timeless while being undeniably forward-thinking.

What was your vision for the living room?
The living room encapsulates understated elegance. Painted in a warm terracotta using low-impact Bauwerk and Coat paints, the space feels inviting and grounded. The bench seat is upholstered in a unique fabric crafted from recycled plastic, showcasing a blend of innovation and sustainability. Styling accents, such as vintage finds sourced from Portobello Market and select local suppliers, add a curated, authentic charm. Every element tells a story, creating a room that feels as personal as it is beautiful.

What about the master bedroom?
The master bedroom is a serene retreat designed to evoke tranquillity and warmth. Soft textiles in recycled fabrics, combined with a palette of blues and greens inspired by nature, create a sense of calm. Vintage decor adds charm, while the simplicity of the design ensures it remains a restful space to unwind from city life. Thoughtfully chosen artwork from Art Box London adds a personal touch, while bedside lights sourced from Portobello Market enhance the character and warmth of the space.

Tom Allport

The show apartment features a lot of sustainable materials. How did you ensure this was a focus throughout the project? Did it present any challenges?
We prioritised materials with strong ethical and environmental credentials. Recycled fabrics for textiles, repurposed fishing nets for window treatments, and vintage furniture showcase our commitment to reducing waste. The use of natural, low-impact paints brings an earthy depth to the design, and locally sourced materials support the circular economy.

A key challenge was sourcing sustainable materials that aligned with the aesthetic vision. We tackled this by deepening collaborations with ethical suppliers and embracing vintage elements, turning a potential obstacle into an opportunity to highlight the beauty of repurposed and responsibly sourced design.

What do you hope people take away from the project?
Environmental responsibility was at the core of every decision: from upcycled furnishings to eco-friendly paints and locally crafted pieces, the project demonstrates how thoughtful choices can achieve a harmonious blend of sustainability and style. By working with our Conscious Collection and partnering with local artisans, we made ethical design accessible and aspirational.

Tom Allport

What’s your favourite part of the end result?
One standout feature is the terrace, where armchairs crafted from repurposed beer kegs highlight the ingenuity of sustainable design. Seeing the space come together – with every element reflecting both elegance and responsibility – was immensely rewarding. It’s a space that invites connection and inspires a new way of thinking about luxury.

How can readers recreate this at home?
Recreating this aesthetic starts with intentional choices. Incorporate vintage or second-hand pieces that add personality, opt for natural tones with low-impact paints, and prioritise quality over quantity. For a truly bespoke touch, explore curated collections like our Conscious Collection, and let ethical craftsmanship lead the way.

Remaining one-bedroom apartments at One Thames Quay start from £627,000. onethamesquay.com