This image by iconic designer Mark Hampton is unarguably beautiful. Who could presume to re-do acclaimed work? However, I imagine some of my younger clients baulking at the traditionalism and dismissing it as old fashioned for their young families, and wanting something that stays traditional with a fresher edge and a cleaner spirit.

I can understand why, actually. So here is how I propose freshening this room into a younger, crisper version that the younger set would love: (I hope no one in a position of power is reading this, forgive me…!) Let’s break it down.

ps

1. Lose the plant stands and topiaries.
2. Lacquer the dining chairs in coral, yellow or cobalt and recover the seats in something wild like this Batik.
3. Replace the chandelier with something more contemporary like this from Marjorie Skouras.
4. Swap the sconces out for something unexpected like these.
5. Get rid of the tablecloth and place one gigantic white urn in the middle of the table perhaps with succulents or low plant material inside this.
6. Choose a sisal or seagrass rug.
7. For impact hang this painting by Sabre Esler above the mantel.