StudioMorey at The OWO • Hotel Designs

Beyond the exclusivity and bespoke lifestyle associated with Raffles London – private lounges and dining rooms, a 16-seat cinema, 24/7 concierge service, and discreet private ‘ex-spy’ entrances – residents of The OWO become stewards of a landmark steeped in British political and architectural history.

Formerly the domain of statesmen such as Sir Winston Churchill, The Old War Office – now known simply as The OWO – has been reimagined as a new residential icon. Within this rare architectural setting, The OWO Residences by Raffles has collaborated with a handpicked selection of leading interior design studios to deliver five turnkey residences that reinterpret luxury through a contemporary lens.

The most recent apartment, a 236-square-metre, three-bedroom. three-bathroom residence by StudioMorey, is anchored in mid-century modernism. There, studio founder Linda Morey-Burrows has woven a narrative that is rooted in heritage but is equally future-facing, balancing warmth, restraint and character with a clear reverence for material integrity and form.

Drawing from three guiding pillars – craftsmanship, contemporary living, and timelessness – the apartment pays homage to The OWO’s storied past while mid-century modernism influences appear not only in form, but in philosophy: space is sculpted for living, not just looking.

The design’s soul lies in its material palette – walnut, wenge, and soft neutral tones – invoking the understated richness synonymous with the mid-century era. Iconic silhouettes coexist seamlessly with artisan-crafted pieces, creating a layered visual language that speaks to both precision and personality.

Image credit: StudioMorey

StudioMorey’s emphasis on British craftsmanship is evident in the thoughtful detailing that runs throughout the apartment. Hand-blown British-designed pendants add sculptural elegance to the kitchen, while a reinterpreted chandelier brings a gentle drama to the dining space.

Architectural interventions optimise flow and frame sightlines, ensuring continuity between social and private zones. A large outdoor terrace – rare for such a central location – functions as both retreat and entertaining space, capturing the mid-century ideal of blending indoor and outdoor living.

In more intimate spaces, such as the study and dressing room, textured rugs, Dedar textiles, and warm natural finishes cultivate a cocooning sense of quiet luxury. The use of neutral hues and tactile materials supports a timeless palette, while avoiding the sterility sometimes associated with minimalist design.

Image credit: StudioMorey

Art is not treated as an afterthought, but as an integral part of the spatial story. Works by Clare Woods, Eleanor Cox, Ross Head, and Oliver White reflect themes of home, memory, and materiality. In the guest bedroom, Linda Morey-Burrows has hung her own handcrafted flower press works for a deeply personal touch – underscoring the studio’s philosophy that interiors should reflect individual identity, not generic opulence.

“The opportunity to design for The OWO Residences was a true honour,” said Linda. “Our aim was to create a home with depth and meaning, one that celebrates history but lives for today. We design with intention – for functionality, for longevity, and most importantly, for the people who will live there.”

Alex Rusling, Director of Residential Sales at The OWO, added: “StudioMorey has brought a rare sensitivity to this project. Their design captures the spirit of British elegance while ensuring it feels contemporary and lived-in. It’s a masterclass in marrying context with comfort.”

Main image credit: StudioMorey