Modern Victorian Living in the Heart of Bristol

When Leighton and Tara James discovered their Victorian home in Bristol, they saw beyond its tired appearance. Beneath years of wear was a house rich in character, with grand proportions, soaring ceilings and beautiful original features that deserved to be restored rather than replaced.

As the founder of The Property Photographer, Leighton has spent years photographing some of the country's most beautiful homes. Through his work, he has developed a deep appreciation for timeless interiors and the subtle details that elevate a space. Having photographed numerous bathrooms featuring Ashbee and Stone brassware, he had admired the craftsmanship first-hand and was particularly drawn to the warmth and character of our Living Brass finish.

With both an ensuite and a family bathroom to renovate, the couple set out to create two spaces that honoured the heritage of the property while offering all the comfort and reliability expected of modern living.

We didn't want to compromise style for function. We wanted bathrooms that felt as though they belonged in the house but performed perfectly for everyday life.

Although each bathroom has its own identity, consistency was key. By selecting similar Ashbee and Stone brassware throughout, Leighton and Tara created a natural connection between the two rooms, allowing the house to feel cohesive from one space to the next. Their style is best described as Modern Victorian – a careful balance of traditional character and contemporary practicality, where period-inspired design sits comfortably alongside dependable modern engineering.

Photographing exceptional homes has given me an appreciation for products that genuinely stand the test of time. I'd seen Ashbee and Stone taps and showers in so many beautiful projects that, when we renovated our Victorian home, they were always going to be part of the design. The Living Brass finish felt completely at home in the space.

In the family bathroom, a beautifully painted Salcombe cast iron bath with traditional claw feet provides an elegant focal point, perfectly in keeping with the home's Victorian architecture. Alongside it, a walk-in shower keeps the room feeling open and spacious, offering clean lines that complement rather than compete with the period features.

Architectural details were equally important. A beautifully formed archway introduces softness to the ensuite, echoing traditional craftsmanship while creating a sense of calm and permanence. Rich, deep red tiles provide a striking backdrop, allowing the Living Brass taps and shower to become the focal point, their warm tones bringing depth and richness to the space.

Throughout the renovation, every decision was guided by our desire to create a home that would stand the test of time rather than follow passing trends. We wanted to celebrate the original character of the house, thoughtfully incorporate modern comforts and ensure every detail felt considered.

For Leighton, Living Brass was always the natural choice. Having seen it in countless homes during photo shoots, he appreciated how the unlacquered finish develops a unique patina over time, becoming even more beautiful with age. Rather than remaining unchanged, the brass gently evolves through everyday use, creating a finish that feels authentic within a Victorian home and ensuring the bathrooms continue to develop their own character for years to come.

The result is two beautifully balanced bathrooms that feel entirely at home within this Victorian property, spaces where heritage and modern living sit effortlessly together. It is a perfect expression of the couple's Modern Victorian aesthetic: timeless, elegant and designed to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Designer: Fifteen Twelve Interiors

Photographer: The Property Photographer