Inside Project London: Redefining design with vision, integrity and craft

In this engaging interview with Wells Interiors, founders Jonathan Mount and Sam McArdle of Project London reveal how their background work shaped a design studio built on purpose, transparency and performance. With the motto “Measured, Transparent, Elegant”, they describe how they forged a practice that marries creative ambition with commercial sense.
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They take us through their methodology from concept to completion: a process grounded in understanding the client’s lifestyle and vision, establishing a clear brief and budget, securing permissions and managing the build through to final handover – all within a single-roof team of architects, interior designers and joinery specialists.

Rather than letting style drift or budgets balloon, Project London emphasises clear scope, open-book pricing and rigorous design control. Their design philosophy is one of timeless refinement – working within the constraints of structure, budget and practicality while preserving design ambition and liveability.

In terms of inspiration, Jonathan and Sam highlight a “classic contemporary” aesthetic rooted in heritage architecture, but layered with modern materials and details. Working often in Grade II listed properties, they balance architectural integrity with unexpected material contrasts – for example, applying Bauhaus-inspired joinery alongside British textile references like William Morris and international voices such as Anni Albers.

They also identify some common pitfalls: clients treating each room in isolation rather than viewing a property as a holistic entity; or pursuing overly trendy design at the expense of cohesion. Their advice? Focus on the layered interplay of space, function and flow – unity with personality.

One standout tip: “Light in layers. A ceiling grid on its own is never enough…add wall lights, floor lights and portable lamps.” Smart lighting strategy is positioned as a critical tool in elevating design beyond surface-looks.

Looking ahead, Project London are excited by “a return to authenticity and craft” in London’s design landscape – prioritising richer textures, deeper colour palettes and quietly expressive detailing. For them, the goal is not to chase fleeting trends but to create “design with soul and longevity”.

If you’re passionate about interiors that feel both considered and lived-in, this article offers abundant inspiration – from process, mindset and materials to real projects that elevate what “beautiful” means in real life.

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Describe our brand in three words? Measured, Transparent, Elegant.

“Our background as buying agents gave us a very practical lens. We had spent years advising clients on value, resale and layout potential. We saw the same pain points again and again. Confusing routes to appointing the right team. Budgets that drift. Designs that photograph well but do not live well. So we built a studio that marries creative ambition with commercial sense. Clear scopes. Transparent procurement that passes on one hundred percent of trade discounts. Design decisions that are always tied back to lifestyle and long term value.”

Jonathan and Sam, Managing Directors

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