A London mum has turned her dreary terraced house into a stunning “Mediterranean paradise” inspired by her Sicilian heritage and her husband’s Moroccan culture. Anatolia Elamradi, a 52-year-old exam invigilator, and her husband, Frank, saved up their life’s savings of £80,000 to fund the renovation project, making ‘economic choices’ by forgoing luxuries such as takeaways and expensive holidays. The couple, who have lived in their Newham, London home for 28 years, decided to overhaul their 1930s terraced property, starting with demolishing the existing extension and building a larger one to create a bright and airy kitchen.
Anatolia’s vision was to infuse their home with vibrant colours, ample light, and elements reminiscent of their respective backgrounds. They completely refurbished the living room, kitchen, and bathroom areas, transforming the space into a place that reflects their cultural roots. The renovation, which began in October 2020, exceeded their expectations, with guests now astonished by the amount of space and the beautiful design of the home.
Anatolia explained that the previous extension lacked natural light and failed to provide the desired ambiance. By incorporating elements from Sicilian and Moroccan cultures, such as colourful murals and thoughtful touches, the couple succeeded in creating a vibrant and welcoming space that evokes memories of their homelands. The project was a labor of love that required careful financial planning and dedication to turning their dream into reality.
With their savings invested in the renovation, Anatolia and Frank prioritised creating a space that resonated with their personal tastes and backgrounds. The renovation not only added value to their property but also enriched their daily lives, providing a warm and inviting environment to relax and entertain. Anatolia’s advice to others is to not shy away from using bold colours and to make the most of the available space, especially in narrow terraced houses.
The transformed home is a testament to Anatolia’s and Frank’s commitment to creating a space that honours their cultural identities and personal preferences. Through meticulous planning and a clear vision, they have succeeded in turning a modest London terrace into a captivating “Mediterranean oasis” that reflects their unique backgrounds and tastes. The Elamradi family’s story serves as an inspiration for homeowners looking to infuse their living spaces with personal touches and create a welcoming sanctuary that resonates with their heritage.