When we think of a Mediterranean escape, our minds often drift to the classic pairing of crisp white stone and the infinite blue of the Ionian Sea. But for me, interior design is never just about following a local aesthetic; it is about telling a personal story. This is the heart of Casa Brigitta, my family’s holiday villa in the beautiful enclave of Kommeno in Corfu. It is a project that remains very close to my heart - a soulful renovation where I had the joy of blending my mother’s traditional European elegance with my own signature West African aesthetic.
In my work, I always believe that a home should be a reflection of those who inhabit it, even when that home is a sanctuary far away from the bustle of London. Designing Casa Brigitta was an exercise in balance: preserving the architectural heritage of a renowned Corfiot architect while breathing new, vibrant life into the interiors through the use of colourful interiors and layered textiles. If you are looking for guidance on how to bring this kind of harmony into your own home, I share many of my personal secrets in my Colour Guide, which also includes a small welcome offer when you join my newsletter.
Preserving Heritage with a Modern Lens
The villa was originally built by the celebrated architect Arvanitis and building engineer Yannis Tryphon. It possesses wonderful "bones"—original brick fireplaces, winding wood and iron staircases, and those iconic Mediterranean shutters that filter the Greek sun so beautifully. When I began the renovation, my goal wasn't to erase this history but to enhance it by combining African craftsmanship with contemporary design.
I often find that luxury is found in the mix. To complement the antique furniture and heirloom pieces my mother has collected over the years, I introduced contemporary West African design elements. It is about creating a dialogue between the past and the present. For instance, in the living areas, you will find our luxury soft furnishings set against the traditional architecture, creating a space that feels curated, worldly, and above all, warm and inviting.
The Power of Colour Psychology in a Coastal Setting
Many people ask me why I didn't stick to a strictly neutral palette, given the villa’s seaside location. While the white walls provide a serene backdrop, I believe that colour psychology in interiors plays a vital role in how we experience a holiday home. We want to feel uplifted, energised, and connected to our environment.
In Corfu, the light is extraordinary. To mirror the lush greenery and the shimmering blues of Kommeno Bay, I used textiles that brought those exterior hues inside. In my interior design work, I always come back to the idea that textiles are one of the most effective ways to introduce colour and personality. At Casa Brigitta, this meant using vibrant upholstery, a handmade African fan feature wall, and Raffia mirrors to add texture and depth to the airy, high-ceilinged rooms.
Creating a Retreat for Connection
A holiday villa should support well-being and connection. Whether it’s sharing a meal on the large dining veranda overlooking the bay or taking a morning dip in the new infinity pool, every corner of Casa Brigitta was designed with enjoyment in mind. The layout, spread over three floors, allows for communal gathering while offering private sanctuaries for our guests.
We updated the villa with modern luxuries—new bathrooms, a private swimming platform at the water's edge, and an outdoor BBQ area—but the "soul" of the house remains in its decorative details. By layering pattern and colour with unique accents, the house feels like a home rather than a generic rental. It is a place where West African craftsmanship meets the Mediterranean spirit, proving that when we design with intention and heritage, the results are truly evergreen.
Experience Casa Brigitta for Yourself
If you are dreaming of your own Ionian escape, I invite you to discover more about this special property. You can explore the full gallery and details of the villa at Corfu Villa Greece.
For those ready to experience the vibrant, uplifting energy of these interiors in person, you can book your stay at Casa Brigitta through Prestige Villas. It is the perfect setting to relax, recharge, and find your own design inspiration among the olive groves and the sea.
If you would like to explore colour and pattern in more depth for your own projects, you can download my Colour Guide below, where I share how to use colour confidently to create a home that feels uniquely yours.
This article was originally published in 2022 and has been updated and revisited in April 2026 to reflect the villa’s latest design evolution.
Thanks for sharing!
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