The OWO
"Sims Hilditch’s skill in designing large, country estate interiors shines through their scheme at The OWO in a beautifully subtle and considered way; creating something unique that we haven’t yet seen here at The OWO" - Shalini Hinduja, of the Hinduja Group
Completed in 1906, the Old War Office in Whitehall, known as The OWO, is regarded as one of London’s finest buildings from the Edwardian Age. The Grade II*-listed Baroque-style building underwent a six-year renovation, and is now home to a new Raffles Hotel and a collection of private residences.
To date, the Residences at The OWO have been decorated by several talented designers, each with their signature styles. Sims Hilditch was tasked with designing a spacious, three-bedroom apartment overlooking the central courtyard of this extraordinary building. Our mission was to marry the timeless sophistication of London with elements of elegant British design for which we are known.
While paying subtle homage to its history through thoughtfully chosen artworks and design details, we focused on creating liveable spaces that prospective buyers could picture as their retreat at the end of a busy day in the capital. Our approach centred on designing fresh, light-filled living areas with a soothing palette of calm colours, complemented by materials and details that reimagine British luxury.
This project marks our first show residence of this calibre in Central London, set within a Grade II Listed building, and the first for The OWO, seamlessly translating our English countryside-inspired aesthetic into an elegant urban context. The result is a true sanctuary in the heart of London—a haven of tranquillity and comfort, offering a serene escape from the fast-paced energy of city life. Completed within an ambitious eight-week timeline, guided by an exacting budget and a vision to bring the countryside into the city.
While the residence’s layout was predetermined, we had the freedom to imagine how each space could be lived in. A versatile room off the main living area became a refined home office, featuring bespoke walnut joinery and sliding doors for privacy and light flow. We are the first designers to envision this space as a study, though we could also picture it as a playroom, media room, or intimate dining space.
The living room is a highlight in this apartment, with two generous eight-over-eight-pane sash windows facing the central courtyard of the building. At one end, we created a dining area, complete with a cocktail bar set in an alcove lined with antiqued mirror glass. The walls, covered in faux linen, add warmth and texture, while a curated mix of classic and contemporary furniture completes the look. Artworks throughout the residence have been sourced from an array of our favourite suppliers including Etalage, a Cotswold-based framing specialist and MYLO Art, a gallery in Hampshire.
"Sims Hilditch’s skill in designing large, country estate interiors shines through their scheme at The OWO in a beautifully subtle and considered way; creating something unique that we haven’t yet seen here at The OWO"
Shalini Hinduja, of the Hinduja Group
At the other end, a spacious sitting area features swivel armchairs positioned to enjoy either the fireplace or a TV. A bespoke sofa with velvet piping in a rich red tone and subtle raspberry accents ties the space together. These raspberry hues thread cohesively throughout the interiors, deepening in the study to create a cosier, more intimate atmosphere. Details such as tailored curtains with leading edges, antiques from 1stDibs, and bespoke cabinetry elevate the overall finish.
The three double bedrooms each tell their own story. The principal suite includes a dressing room and a luxurious bathroom leading into a serene bedroom. An emperor bed with an oversized winged headboard sits against botanical wallpaper, echoing our classic Sims Hilditch style.
The second bedroom takes on a more masculine tone with geometric patterns and a faux suede headboard spanning the wall. The third exudes mid-century charm, with a tapestry-inspired headboard, marble-and-brass lamps, and framed Picasso sketches.
A playful flourish defines the powder room. Here, we paired Schumacher’s bold floral wallpaper with heavily veined marble and intensified the raspberry palette, extending it to the woodwork and ceiling for a dramatic touch. This is more than a residence; it’s a sanctuary of style—designed for modern city living, yet imbued with the warmth and elegance of country charm.
This three-bedroom residence at The OWO is currently available to purchase for £16,000,000.
Project length: 8 weeks
Size: 2,630 sq ft
Contractor: CC Construction & Edward Miles
Location: The OWO