Inside Dapa Atelier's Approach to Liveable Luxury

During the colder months we tend to spend a little more time indoors, so this can be the perfect time to refresh our homes to reflect the seasons. Warm colours, soft textures and a nod to nature can create a sense of calm and grounding, offering a warm and welcome retreat from the cooler temperatures.

We sat down with Louise Sellar, Sales and Marketing Director at Dapa Atelier, a multi-disciplined interior design agency providing award winning residential and commercial interior design services across the United Kingdom. 

Dapa Atelier were the interior design team that styled The Cottage, a beautiful two-bedroom cottage at Latheram House, as well as The Starling, an exquisite two-bedroom apartment from The Chapel Collection at The Vincent in Bristol.

From taking inspiration from natural surroundings, to selecting the right colour palette to designing for style  and functionality, we were fascinated to find out about the creativity that drives the interior design choices of  the team at Dapa Atelier. 

About Louise Sellar, Dapa Atelier

What's the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is storytelling – watching a space come alive as all the layers of design come together and knowing that this helps someone in purchasing their new home. That’s when the show home truly fulfils its purpose.

What are your top tips for styling your home for the winter months?

Layer textures: think wool, sheepskin, and knits for instant warmth. Adjust lighting: swap bright overheads for warm-toned lamps and rechargeable wall lights. Introduce seasonal accents: deeper colours in cushions, throws,  or tableware can completely shift the mood.  Bring nature inside: dried branches, winter greenery, and natural materials add richness without clutter. 

Please can you introduce what Dapa Atelier is about, and your overall ethos?

Dapa Atelier is a collaborative interior design studio built on storytelling, where creative professionals, from seasoned designers to emerging talent, come together to create meaningful, beautiful spaces. Known for our reliability, integrity, and long-standing client relationships, we are driven by ambition, positivity, and humility, always striving for continuous improvement. At the heart of our work is collaboration: staying true to our values and designing environments that enhance how people live, work, and connect.

The Cottage, Latheram House

How did you approach styling the Cottage at our Latheram House community? What was your initial vision?

At the Cottage, our goal was to capture the joy of later living. Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Cheltenham and the natural beauty of the greenery and water feature within the grounds, we set out to create a space that feels both uplifting and welcoming. Every detail was designed with comfort and connection in mind from inviting seating, layers of soft textures,  and a fresh contemporary twist that makes the space feel modern, yet timeless. The styling celebrates the local community, with carefully locally sourced scents, candles, and artwork  that showcase the charm of the surrounding Cotswold countryside. 

Were there any specific materials, textures,  or colour palettes that were essential to achieving the desired aesthetic in this space?

Natural woods, linen, and velvets were central  to the design, bringing warmth and tactility.  The palette drew on soft earth tones – oatmeal, smoke, sage green, sky blue, and touches of rust – to create balance and harmony. These colours grounded the space while allowing natural light  to flow through, enhancing the calm, retreat-like atmosphere.

Beyond just looking good, how did you  ensure the space felt liveable and functional  for a future resident?

We always design with real life in mind, and  in The Cottage, comfort was a key factor in  every decision. Sofas with higher backs were chosen to provide lasting support, while thoughtful storage solutions create space for a lifetime of memories. The layouts encourage easy movement, and styling touches—like throws, books, and ceramics - make the space feel instantly lived-in. Functionality never comes at the expense of beauty; instead, the two work seamlessly together.

The Chapel Collection

Can you describe the overall theme or narrative for The Starling apartment? What story were you trying to tell with the space?

The Starling is about sophistication with a narrative of timeless elegance. We wanted the apartment to feel light, bright and aspirational while still reflecting the character of the heritage of the building.

When it came to colour, texture, and light, what were the key decisions you made to achieve the desired atmosphere? For example, were there specific colours you chose to reflect Bristol's light or landscape? 

We drew inspiration from the grandeur of the building and the history of Clifton Downs, working  with a colour palette of rich, deep purple, balanced with lighter neutrals and touches of brass and gold. While use of textures such as velvet, oak, and brushed metals added depth.

What were some of the key furniture or decor pieces you sourced for these apartments, and why were they chosen?

We introduced a social seating design with sculptural curved sofas, alongside featuring statement ceiling pendants and feature wall lights. Carefully selected artwork and accessories brought in a modern twist, while bespoke joinery and panelling were added to complement both the kitchen and the building’s period details, tying the scheme together seamlessly.

Beyond aesthetics, how did you ensure  the design was practical and appealed to potential residents? 

We created versatile interiors that are easy  to personalise while retaining enough character  to stand on their own. Thoughtful storage solutions, durable fabrics, and carefully planned layouts ensure the apartments are not only visually appealing but genuinely practical for everyday life.

For more information about Dapa Atelier and to get in  touch with the team, visit the Dapa Atelier website at www.dapaatelier.com