Cyprus-born, London-based Yiannis Stylianou only set up his interior architecture studio five years ago but he has already made his mark designing modern luxury residential spaces for private clients in the capital. Specialising in design, renovation and project co-ordination, his eclectic aesthetic combines comfort and practicality with pieces from different eras and complementary styles that sit together in surprising harmony – for instance, the line of a bespoke, brightly coloured chair might be echoed in the curve of a contemporary abstract artwork. A building’s architecture also influences every element of his interior design, from the joinery and furniture to lighting and soft furnishings, and all members of the in-house Studio Ypsilon team have an architectural background.
The aesthetic combines comfort and practicality with pieces from different eras and complementary styles that sit together in harmony
Yiannis first completed a degree in architecture at the University of Greenwich, going from there to complete secondary degree in Interior Architecture and Design at the University of Hertfordshire, to enhance his knowledge of the interior design sector. He then gained experience working at several design practices in London, before deciding to start up his own – a move that has already proven to be a huge success. The studio began this year with the completion of a lateral apartment at one of Mayfair’s most prestigious addresses, Berkeley Square, and the continuation of one of its largest projects to date: a Hampstead Garden Suburb cottage that is undergoing a full renovation. The property has been dramatically reconfigured inside while still maintaining the beautiful original features outside.
One particularly important commission was a Soho pied-à-terre, a real labour of love for Yiannis. In response to the client’s passion for wood and bold colours, the Studio Ypsilon team collaborated with bespoke joiners to develop a special bleached oak finish, which was used as the main material throughout. This was offset by architectural lighting details in metal, dramatic accent hues and richly smoked oak herringbone floors to inject a timeless glamour into the sophisticated urban home. Following the delivery of this project, the private company that owns the residential building has commissioned the studio to completely redesign all the communal areas. With a ‘Soho-meets-Mayfair’ brief, the team’s proposal has evolved into a luxurious yet pared-back look that’s due to be realised in November.
Other projects include the modernisation of an Arts & Crafts cottage in Bushey, Hertfordshire, designed by the celebrated architect Charles F.A. Voysey, and two residences in Greece, one in Mykonos, the other in Cyprus – both islands that Yiannis has a strong connection to.
But whatever the type of property, he always tries to highlight its architectural attributes, bringing in furniture with organic shapes and employing natural materials, such as stone and wood, to create refined, elevated spaces rather than a scheme that is overly glossy and ‘done’. Ultimately though, for Yiannis the most important aspect is always his relationship with the client, and ensuring that the finished design is a true reflection of their needs.
