Inside the Apsley Showhome at Royal Arsenal Riverside | Regency Interior Design Inspiration

The new Apsley showhome at Royal Arsenal Riverside offers a showcase of contemporary apartment interior design inspired by the heritage of Woolwich Arsenal and the legacy of The Duke of Wellington. Designed by Berkeley's in-house interior design team, this two-bedroom apartment demonstrates how period influences can be reimagined for modern living.

We sat down with our in house interior design team to talk through how this two bedroom showhome came to life, and why the Duke of Wellington’s legacy became such a rich creative springboard.

Reinterpreting Regency for Today

The Apsley showhome takes its name from the London townhouse of The Duke of Wellington, who served as Master-General of the Ordnance during one of the Arsenal’s defining periods. The connection to The Duke of Wellington provided the starting point for the design concept, inspiring a scheme that references Regency architecture, landscapes and craftsmanship in a contemporary way.

The team told us that the whole concept began with a simple idea: How do you take Regency elegance and make it feel effortless, modern and liveable?

“We wanted the design to feel connected to the Duke’s architecture and landscapes, but not in a literal or museum-like way,” they explained. “It’s about reinterpreting those influences, so the home feels timeless, but still very much made for contemporary living.”

That philosophy shaped everything — the palette, the joinery, the artwork, even the way light moves through the space.

Bringing the Outdoors In

One of the first things the team talked about was the importance of nature.

“The whole concept centres around bringing the outdoors in”. And you see that instantly in the panoramic landscape murals – sweeping countryside scenes framed by elegant arches, almost like you’re looking out through grand windows onto the Duke’s estate grounds.

The hallway mural is a standout moment. It’s dramatic, immersive, and sets the tone for the entire apartment.

If there’s one architectural detail that threads the whole home together, it’s the arch.

“We used bespoke arched detailing throughout — in joinery, feature walls, furniture, even subtle sculptural elements,” the team shared. “It creates a consistent language that links each room and nods to The Wellington Arch and Apsley House.”

It’s clever, because the motif is both historic and incredibly current. It softens the space, adds elegance, and gives the apartment a recognisable identity.

Materials That Feel Rich, Calm and Crafted

When we asked about the palette, the team lit up, this is clearly where the scheme comes alive.

“Deep heritage greens, chocolate oak, striking marble, warm brass… it’s all about richness and depth, but still feeling calm and inviting.”

The living and dining spaces are a perfect example. The bespoke media unit (chocolate oak paired with dramatic marble-inspired detailing) anchors the room beautifully. Layered artwork, curated accessories and tactile finishes add warmth and authenticity.

“It’s a curated feel,” they said. “Traditional influences, but with a contemporary finish.”

The team described bedroom one as “a calm retreat,” and that’s exactly how it feels.

A sculptural arched feature wall frames a hand painted mural inspired by the Duke’s estate landscapes, creating the illusion of expansive countryside views. Heritage greens, warm brass and soft textures wrap the room in a cocooning, restful atmosphere.

“It’s designed to feel serene, like you’re waking up in the countryside, even though you’re in London.”

Bedroom Two: Immersive and Imaginative

Bedroom Two takes the nature theme in a different direction.

“We wanted it to feel immersive,” the team explained. “So, we introduced a woodland-inspired wallpapered ceiling, almost like lying beneath a tree canopy.”

It’s unexpected, playful, and beautifully executed. Botanical artwork, soft greens and dark oak finishes complete the space, making it feel both imaginative and elegant.

As we wrapped up our conversation, the team summed up the scheme perfectly:

“The Apsley celebrates The Duke of Wellington’s heritage in a contemporary way. It’s unique, timeless, and designed to balance historic influence with modern living.”

And that’s exactly what the showhome delivers – a thoughtful blend of architecture, craftsmanship, storytelling and serenity.

Discover The Apsley at Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich

To explore our 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes in The Apsley and ready to move into homes across the West Quay Collection, visit the Royal Arsenal Riverside pages of our website, visit the Sales & Marketing Suite or speak with the sales team today.